Yes, been doing it for 30 years.

I started running my finesse reels dry a few years ago, and it's working well.  Before that, I went dry with my cranking reels.  It's a toss up for those.  I like everything smooth on a cranker, and even grease the knob bearings.  None of my drags are hammered down.

21 hours ago, WRB said:

Hook set isn't power it's impact shock.

Take the challenge of lifting a gallon of water using your rod, that is power.

Freds Magic stick IRG 754F is a 4 power rod that can lift 4 lbs, 1/2 gallon of water.

Tom

I've actually lifted a 10lb weight with my ugly stick.  Which is 2lbs more than a gallon of water. Not that I'd ever do this while fishing. Just saying.