Another vote for the Chronarch. I am brand loyal but I do occasionally try something out the box and the only brand that I don't care for is the Lews. Not that its a bad reel, on the contrary its very nice, just hate those paddle handles with a passion!!! Just wish I hadn't purchased one before trying one at the local tackleshop. Now I'm having a tough time selling it.

Which Lew's reel do you have and how much are you wanting for it? I have never owned a Lew's, but my bass fishing guru swears by them. lol.

Another vote for the Chronarch. I am brand loyal but I do occasionally try something out the box and the only brand that I don't care for is the Lews. Not that its a bad reel, on the contrary its very nice, just hate those paddle handles with a passion!!! Just wish I hadn't purchased one before trying one at the local tackleshop. Now I'm having a tough time selling it.

You may try shopping around for some non paddle style handle knobs that will fit your reel even if it isn't the same brand especially if you like everything else about the reel.

Many of the members here are somewhat brand loyal but the truth is, there are so many quality reels in their respective price ranges and they perform at a high level. An angler could do well with any of the models mentioned. Personal preference.

truly..... bass fishing is about "confidence" and we all have our "tried & true" stuff.

I have the team lew's speed spool and it is nice. I am looking into a Chronarch for Xmas though. I just like good stuff. Do not care which brand it is.

I own the new STX, and let me just say it's an amazing reel. Everything from casting to the retrieve is effortless. The dual braking system is nice as well, so it makes for a good casting reel AND a good reel for flipping and pitching.