Product review - Okuma CV-30D trolling reel

I use Shimano in my boat, almost exclusively. But when I needed another trolling reel and didn't want to shell out $189 for another Tekota, I bought an Okuma Convector (CV-30D) trolling reel instead. So far, I'm very pleased with that decision. For a reel that only set me back about 75 bucks, I am impressed with how it's functioned so far. The drag is smooth, and the reel feels very tight and smooth on the retrieve, too. I love the size of the power handle. It's very comfortable, and combined with a a low 4.0:1 gear ratio, this thing really feels like a winch. Time will tell how well it holds up to the abuse of trolling for muskies. I've had plenty of gear over the years that seemed good right out of the box but didn't stand up to hard use, not for long any way. But so far so good with this reel; I'd be satisfied with this reel even if the price we closer to the Tekota's, and I'm downright delighted with it at the $75 price.