Thanks DMC. That is what I was hoping for. I notice the rod you used is only rated up to 30lb class. How did it handle the 65lb spectra?
I held the equivilent Thunnus and Spheros in my hands today and liked the Spheros better. I can't make myself buy a Stella even if I could afford it. I looked at the Penns today too and they did not compare to the Shimanos IMO. But they were the new Penns.
I found a nice Daiwa Sealine rod I liked rated up to 60lb, 7ft, that I think I am going to be getting for it. Will fish 65lb spectra with a 50lb topshot (maybe 60lb). If it does not work out I will go the custom route. Otherwise, its back to my Newells.
MuddSkipper, you have probably already looked at this reel, but if not you might want to check it out. I can not believe you can get this quality of a reel for $125.