I started on fixed spool reels, then went over to multis. Then I had kids and gave up for a few years got rid of my gear. Then 20 years ago moved closer to the sea, started on fixed spool reels. I just found them expensive and not up to the job. I was going through around 4 reels a year, and at around £100 a pop. I was even mixing reel parts from broken reels. So I bit the bullet went back to multis, half the price, more robust, parts cheap and easily replaceable. It was dragging in many hundreds of thornies and congers that shortened the life of the fixed spool reels. I still think multis are much better value than fixed spool, you can pick up a second hand fathom for around 60 or 70 quid will last years! But a decent fixed spool can cost hundreds. I just use my reels as tools, they are certainly nothing to look at. I am thinking of buying a conti set up for pop up work on chesil, so am open to any suggestions!....