Agreed, every method has it's place. I love my DR when the need arises. I bought the Penn 600NW last year, I should buy the swivel bases too, but they have performed flawlessly, and have brought many, many fish to the boat. If on a budget, I would shop the classifieds on this site, or post a wanted ad, there is always a bargain, as I paid retail for mine $550 or so, I wish I would have shopped around. Good luck!