I use all CGI # 8, 6 of them, the only thing is the drag can get jumpy on them from time to time with realllly big fish on. They are an awesome alternative then spending the 100 bucks on a black betty, which in all reality is probably better overall. But i cant see myself dropping that kind of cash on 6 rods.
I forget which user (sorry) on here recommended flushing the bearings out with rubbing alcohol, and then re-lubing them TSI 321 oil, i just did that and can certainly see that there is a noticeable difference in smoothness and drop rate. I haven't used them with the new oil on the ice obviously, and i really only had an issue with the drop rate when using super light panfish jigs, but i would be shocked if the TSI 321 oil doesn't alleviate that issue entirely.
I can only speak for the CGI#8 reels, but I love them. I would say if lake trout or big northerns are your main targets, i would probably go with a pfluger president, but i have landed a 29 inch walleye with it, and a 42 inch northern too with them, just need to be careful when you do lock into one.
