Yes, the long and shallow profile gives you better distance performance than the short and deep profiles. The long spool doesn't "empty" as quickly as a short spool and that minimizes the biggest distance robber, friction at the lip of the spool.
Long spools and thin braids equal big casts. The rod is also important; moderate fast actions cast better than slower, parabolic actions (of course they won't work a lure quite as well) . . .
One thing to consider is that the vast majority of the long spool reels are offered in 5000 size or bigger. If you are looking for a plugging reel the match-up might not be optimal. Most of those reels in your budget tip the scales at well over 20 ounces.
The only way to get into that 20oz and below weight class is with major $$$$ and ordering from Japanese tackle shops . . . The reels are just not seen or sold here.
There is a partial exception!
PowerSurf-4000QD.jpg
The Daiwa Powersurf series weighs 20.5 ounces and can be had for about $200 - $240 including shipping from Japan. They have a 35mm spool and a 15kg (33lb) drag; they have been making an impression on some guys fishing the Big Ditch from what I’ve been reading. They stand up to the fish and the current and cast like a banshee!
If you are interested I can post up some more info. I use a bunch of Japan market distance spinners from Shimano and Daiwa; I am familiar with what's out there. This one is considered the ultimate distance spinner; Daiwa Tournament Surf Basia QD45II:
thereel2.jpg
That reel has over 160 yards of line out . . . see what I mean about the line level?
If you Google the name, "
Daiwa Powersurf," some good stuff comes up.
Also, do a Google search on the name “
Fishing Website Plat.” Once there click on "
Surf Game" on the main menu . . . . try to keep your eyes in your head.
IMPORTANT POINTS!
The Japanese market caters
very specifically for certain uses and many reels are offered with:
A) Spools that hold too little line for
our use over here . . . and
B) Reels with
no drag, the spool is locked down . . .
Some of the really neat reels are for casting competition or fishing for very small fish (kisu). They don't have large fields so their casting comps are with micro-braids and light weights (100 yards is a huge cast) and the fish they catch are so small no drag is needed . . .
Be aware when surfing the Asian sites too because the translation, while entertaining at times, can be confusing.
Use
XE.com for Yen to Dollar conversion.
Hope this helps.