what do you want to see in a reel

[striprman]

A reel that wont line twist
a reel that the bail springs wont break or screw up... ever
a reel that the bail wont snap shut.. no matter the orientation of the bail on the reel prior to the cast
something that sand wont get into, and if it does, wont jam the spool and will wash out with ease
strong (but not brittle or soft) graphite spool (rocks and aluminum/titanium spools don't go well together)
"reverse" long cast spool for extra distance
big strong line roller with bearings that actually let it turn...
a shaft that wont bend.. causing the whole reel to f up

gears strong enough so that if I'm turning the crank against the fish (in my exuberence) the gears won't strip or become disengaged because the body of the reel isn't strong enough.
silky smooth, non jerky drag.. that lasts..
a handle that wont "unscrew" and loosen up while your fishing..only when you want it to..

no screws, caps levers and adjustment mechanisms that fall off or come loose while your fishing

place levers where they won't get accidently bumped and engaged (or disengaged)when cranking in a big fish

a finish that lasts, heavy anodize or something

no corroding materials

strong foot and leg.. I've had reels that broke where the leg connects to the foot.. after very long use..

things out of the way so you can easily "palm" the spool for extra drag..

mono and braid.. able to use both
waterproof
easy to take apart
easy to lubricate

supplied with parts that are known to wear, and will eventually need to be replaced.. easily

a "fix it" and adjustment tool that is only one or 2 (common) tools instead of something that looks like something you've never seen before. something that you can fix with a jacknife blade if necessary.. easy to take apart and fix..


did I forget anything ?