The 5000D is the ultimate steelhead reel, if you can get one. Direct drive with freespool, casts forever (always take out the blocks and throw them away) and has adjustable drag on the direct drive.

However, for small water I use a 2650 - real rare, probably never find one. These are tiny but still hold over 100 yards with backing, straight direct drive with freespool and casts/handles like a dream, light too. Caught two 20 pounders on this thing - what a blast