Opti Runner and Speedrunner

I have to admit that when I first laid eyes on the Speedrunner I was a little skeptical. I mean it was so different that I didn't know what to make of it. If nothing else the reel certainly was unique looking, what with the crazy large diameter, funky inset handle, V shaped spool and shiny blue finish, not to mention the large silver L making up the back frame. I just wasn't sure I could see myself stepping into my favourite Steelhead flow with one. Yet somehow I was drawn to the reel and eventually came to match it up with a 8124 Opti rod. The Speedrunner paired with the Opti and it's young sibling the Runner, paired with a 6120 GASS have been my go to Steelhead set ups for this past year. Despite their light weight the Opti reels have stood up to some heavy fish. The inset handles sacrifice a little torque in exchange for speedy pick up but are well up to task on heavy fish provided one pumps the rod properly. Talk about a sweet reel to fish, the large arbor combined with the silky smooth drag is pure butter and the V shaped spool piles the backing on nice and neat.