Loomis,

What do you mean by "stiff?"
Ironically, the review specifically stated that one of the strength of the Daiwa Capricorn reel over the Stradic was that the retrieve was very smooth. The Stradic was smooth initially, but it became not as smooth after some use.

ReiterRat,

I'm glad you are happy with the reel. This is giving me some confidence about the purchase. Sounds like you have the 2500 size. Do you use it for salmon angling, too?