BP - It is the same reel that has gotten a lot of hype on this board, and for good reason, they are AWESOME. Only difference with this one as compared to what most of the guys are discussing is this is the 100 size, and most guys here are discussing the 200. Look at it this way...the 100 series is a great reel for 8lb test and summer runs, the 200 is a great reel for 12-15lb test and winters or Chinooks. So...this one is a little smaller, but the same otherwise. The 200 also comes with a high speed retrieve option which this one does not - not a huge issue for Steelie fishing with light line - and it still has a 6.2:1 retrieve which is well above average. Hope that helps. NCD.