STELLA SW 08 MODEL

The JDM Shimano Stella 20000PG has always been my dream reel. Check out the latest Stella promotion video here. But at a price tag of around $1100 USD, seems like I'll have to buy mine second hand. That means waiting for people to sell the previous model Stellas when they change to the 08' model.
The Stella 8000PG would be a good reel for lighter applications. It holds 300m of PE4 line, max drag of 25 kg and a low cranking ratio of 1: 4.9 makes it a very good light/mid jigging reel. Although I still thinking why the max drag is so high for such a reel. Maybe someone can enlighten me?

BungSamran Fishing Lake

Date: 24th Jan 2007
Location: Bangkok, BungSamran Fishing Lake
Tackle: Daiwa Freams J4500, Lemax The King Woven Rod, 30 lbs mono.

RED BULL!!... For the reel.....

Humbled...

After 15- 20 min.

One of the many Mekongs.

All this thanks to a wonderful fishing guide: Mr Boy aka BadBoy

Tackle review:
ROD- I think the rod is a bit too long for use at BSR, the length makes it hard to steer the fish when it is closer to the structure. There is also less leverage for the angler due to the length and stiffness, thus the angler have to work harder to reel in the fish.

However, the length does give the angler some edge when casting out to the hot spots.

Reel- Freams J 4500 works well for its price. Strong drag of 7 kilos (stated on box).The side cap however tends to come loose after a while and the handle turns wobbly. Maybe a screw in handle would be better, eg Shimano Biomaster, Twinpower etc..