I love both of mine. They are great plugging reels. The retrieve is fine for plugging. If you want a faster retrieve, you can always replace the gear but it is not necessary. I recommend the power handle though.
Sounds like it's the thing to do for him, matches the slow retrieve he wants for larger plugs. AOK on the power handle too, the non-level wind has the power handle, this one doesn't, go figure.
Hybrid Mode
