Return IT and get yourself an Abu Garcia 800 (802 is great). It's all aluminum - body, sideplate, rotor and bail arms. It's built like a tank. Just as smooth and just as functional as the Stradic FI. But for robustness, I think it blows the Stradic FI outta the water. Less expensive, too. Best spinning reel out there for under $200 (and better than most for more than $200).

that's the reel i wanted but they didn,t have any in stock, i would order it but i'd like to try it on the rod before i buy it.

that's the reel i wanted but they didn,t have any in stock, i would order it but i'd like to try it on the rod before i buy it.

get an advantage  and why do you care how it looks, the fish dont?

Looks???????????????????????????????