Reel

They were thick neoprene ( 5 mm, the brand is Bare) and I just fold them in a large box in the SUV. They stay there most of the wading season that is from April to July and then again from September to November. I fish at least 3 times a week during these periods. I put them in a cool garage during the winter months. The only thing I do is cover them so that there is no light.
Now I have Orvis lightweights and they are on their 5th year with no problems.

Felt soles are available in most fly fishing shops along with cleats.

For a versatile outfit that can be used both for panfish and bass I would go the medium route: in Shimano, something like a Nasci or Miravel 2500 reel and a Sellus seven footer rod in medium action. Those a new products so you'll be set for a while ... until you get the urge again.

Yes, I remember now. The ones I have are Excalibur, that is a Pradco brand or at least was.

I don't think the Helix 5 can be part of a network.  You can use on it's own for 2 D high speed - The setup here works fine with the SI transducer on the other side. I use a setup that is similar for high speed. 

Yes, exchange.