Well, I am realitivly new to using a reel but I love my new AMS Retriever. I used to just coil the line and leave it on the deck of the boat or front of the canoe. It would always knot up after a few shots. This Retriever I just bought is amazing. I love it. Can't seem to figure out why the line doesnt tangle inside the bottle but he!!, if it works the way it does who cares. Never used the zebco's or others so I dont know about them. Ill stick to what works great for me.