I use one for crappies and sunfish. I really like it and have had no problems with it. I was hesitant to buy one a few years back but they were 70 bucks and the wife said why don’t you try one instead of a spinning reel. I have only used it in a trap or a permanent house so I couldn’t tell you if it would freeze up or not, but would think it could be a little minor problem. The only other thing that takes a little time is spooling it up and getting your fingers in to pull the line tight and cutting the line.