I am planning on purchasing a spinning reel for my dad for fathers day. Do any of you have a recommendation for a good spinning reel for winter steelhead that is reasonably priced?

What is "reasonable"?

I've recently switched from being a shimano guy to being an Okuma guy. I got an Okuma Epixor (about $50) and really like it so far. It is heavier than the comparable shimano, but seems very solid and performs great.

Ive had my Shimono sedona reel (I think I paid $40 for it) for a few years now and love it, never had any problems with it, But I warn you it may juss be me but I doubt it everyone abu garcia spinning reel I have bought has crapped out on me in less then a year, they may look nice and everything but man they sure suck, Ive had 4 abu spinning reels and wont buy another one if I can get around it.

Okuma reels are excellent for the price.

Diawa Laguna 2500. May not be the absolute best model out there (parker :p ) but still a great spinning reel for steelhead, and costs about $65.

I used the epixor last season for steelhead and was happy with its performance. It has a nice drag and the extra weight was actually acted as a nice counterbalance on my long float rod. The only draw back is that it is harder to engage the bail after casting...compared to other high-end spinning reels. You really can't beat it for the price.

Easy E,

Some good suggestions, above.

I am a big fan of the Pflueger spinning reels, and both the Trion and Solara models are excellent for steelhead. You can buy the Solara on-sale right now at several places for about $30.00, and the Trion Spinning reel runs about $50.00.

Smooth drags, well built and not too heavy.

Mike

Diawa Laguna 2500

Thanks for the input so far guys. Anybody else have any suggestions?

Quantum energy PT30 0r PT40 kinetics are sweet. I think their better made than any shimano in the same price range and the titanium bails are absolutly sweet. These reels walk all over the okumas as well. Check em out
you wont be disapointed.
Chrome

I second the Quantum spinning reels, ( Energy PTI and the Catalist PTI ). Could be the best American product out there right know.

I'd buy an Okuma.

Okuma it is. I love my Fin Nor too though.

Quantum. I love the magnetic bail, it never hangs up . It always trips when you start reeling. not like shimono Shara.

Check out the Shimano Symetre 2500 and the Pflueger President 6730