That sucks for sure. I spent over 6 hours once stuck on Snoqualmie pass while they did "Avalanche" work once.

I too am right handed but use left hand reels. I find it easier to hold onto the rod with my right hand.

Not sure if there is any relation but I am also left eye dominate.

About forty years ago, I had a Shimano bait cast reel that had the "Magnetic brake in it. It definitely helped. However, I still got bird nests on occasion. I wish that I still had that rod and reel. Got divorced, then remarried and have been away from fishing for a long time.

I am getting back into fishing, ordered a boat and have spent several thousands in new fishing gear. Guys when you see an idiot that looks like he does not have a clue on the lower Columbia this spring. Instead of yelling at me and telling me how stupid I am please teach me instead. A lot has changed since I used to fish all the time. Both in new gear, techniques, and my health.

Good luck with the new reel, You will like it once you get used to it.

I was looking at some at Sportsman's Warehouse the brand was called "Native" . They seemed very nice and were in the $75-$100 range. I too have looked at the Costa's and the O'Brian brands and just cannot get by the price. Is the Quality of the Costa glasses that much better?