Gary you'll be hard pressed to get much info about center pin reels down here in the States as they are primarily used up in B.C.
I'm no authority but I have had the opportunity to use one on an 11 foot GL2 and it's a blast. Casting is a little different then traditional bait casting reels but you'll catch on quickly. Center pins unfortunately are very expensive. Be prepared to spend at least $200.00 for a low-end used reel with the better quality new ones going for $500.00 or more. I guess the center pin bearing is the key, if you hold the reel in your and with the handles up and spin them the spool should spin for a looooong time. I know some collectors up in Nanamio and might be able to contact them if you want. Your spey rod would work great or any medium/heavy action graphite rod 10.5 feet or longer works well. Again you don't want to buy a cheap rod cuz sometimes you have to pull the trigger before the float goes under, especialy with chinook, and you won't feel the bite with low-quality rods. Good luck.

gbeezer@aol.com