Well a nice set of replies....and a bit of diversity that I didn't expect. Shows how different we all can be. Myself I was perfectly satisfied to fish right handed reels for almost 20 years....yeah I had to do the big switch when hooked up but it worked. Since goin lefty it just seems more natural with my personal style and abilities. I can even in place my casts where I want them even in situations where a left hand cast seems appropiate. My thumb is automatically in place on the spool and my right hand in place to help manipulate the line thru the drift. I'd rec' anyone who is just starting out to try it. For those set in their ways I wouldn't want to even try to advise you....wasn't my purpose...but I wanted and value your experienced opinions. Anyway back to the ice bag on the knee. BTW heads up don't ever try to split a submerged boulder in half with your left knee cap....believe me from my experience it's a real stupid idea.

Gooose