Dogfish,
Fortunately I did not what the thumb... Bob's rods were rigged up backwards (no offense Bob) and I am not used to reeling with the right hand. I do remember reaching to grab the handle with the left hand and noticing there was no handle...Then it clicked, palm the darn thing!

SkaGuy,
At first I did not want to post the name of the fly shoppe. I did not want to convey the wrong message. They did make things right and it really did not impact the guided trip (at least Bob was prepared ). For anyone buying new equipment, do your research prior to entering the store. Ensure the salesman knows your intended usage of the equipment. NEVER accept any substitute unless it was an option you have already researched. Always buy the highest quality you can afford (not always the most expensive). "the Morning Hatch" in Tacoma did everything possible to ensure a happy customer, in doing this I have become a loyal customer.

-Stephen