For $13, I didn't expect to get much usage from this reel (the 1000 model). I bought it basically as a backup reel, but I decided to try it out after I bought it. I put it on my Ultra-Light rod, and only loaded it with 4 pound line. I used appropriately sized bait/lures, and I didn't miss a beat bringing in the Bluegills. Especially for a beginner, or as a backup, there's no down-side to this reel. Of course, the line retrieve isn't as smooth on this (I don't believe it even has any ball bearings), but then again, it's only $13. I liked the 1000 model so much, I bought the 2000 model also, as a backup to my rod/reel combo that I use 6 pound line on. Sure enough, the first time I used it, I reeled in a fighting 2 pound bass on it, and it worked great. I've used both the 1000 and 2000 models I own probably 3 times each, so they're not exactly getting a workout, but I can say that, using appropriately sized bait for the smaller fish, this reel should do the job just fine. 4 stars

In theory a sub-$15 reel that works is a good deal, even if the gear ratio is a bit low and the retrieve isn't perfect. I used my first one of these guys maybe 6 times before it lost the ability to cast. I picked up another one figuring, hey, it's cheap and the first time was probably a fluke. Wrong. My second one lasted only 3 trips before breaking. I really don't know why Shimano would sully their reputation with this kind of product, but that's certainly what they've done. Stay away from this guy--spend another $15 and pick up something decent. 1 star