I think you should consider the Okuma Induron.. I recently got one and so far I am impressed. It has 8 bearings and is very smooth and the drag feels smooth and steady I think it is the best reel in its price range $109. I haven’t had a chance to really beat on it yet but I will and I will let you guys know how well it holds up. I also have been fishing a Catala for the last year and I think it is OK. I have caught a few big bass on it and some bigger salty fish and it still works but it is definitely getting worse. The drag is sticky and the anti reverse is a little sloppy and it makes a whining noise when I cast the big heavy baits. Don’t get me wrong I don’t think the Catala is a bad reel, I just think the Induron is much better in fact I would compare the Induron with the Calcutta at Half the price.
Matt