Probably not entirely relevant to this board--but related... Is there a board or website that reviews not just new reels, but reels in general? I'd love to know how certain Okuma models rate against Penn, Shimano, etc. I have a bunch of questions as I'm being asked more and more to recommend reels for the rods I build, many of which I don't own nor have ever seen or used. I rate fisherman's opinions much higher that any manufacturer's review.

I have found customer reviews on www.epinions.com of reels. The amount of reviews are limited but you might luck out and find some helpful information.
ELrod

www.allcoastsportfishing.com

Capt. Bill is right about this site. You want to go to the Tackle Board. There have been numerous posts comparing Okuma vs Penn & Shimano. Okuma usually falls very short in quality and reliability, although recent experience has somewhat improved. The board tends to concentrate on salt water tackle. There are also detailed discussions comparing Penn to Shimano and Daiwa (and others), and comparisons of different lines within a single manufacturer. This is a valuable resource for the saltwater fisherman. If you don't find a thread on the exact subject you're interested in, ask a question. You will find a number of experts glad to weigh in - especially in the winter, when there's no fishing to keep them occupied. By the way, there is also a rod building board there. This board also emphasises salt water tackle. You will find discussions of heavier blanks and their applications, such as those put out by Calstar, Seeker, and GUSA, and also discussions of salt water guides, such as AFTCO rollers. The AllCoast rod building board is not as extensive as this one or the Rodguild board, but plays, IMHO, an important role for the saltwater rod builder.

[www.sport-fish-info.com]

You might want to take a look at www.outdoorreview.com. Go to the flyfishing section and you will find quite a few reviews on reels, rods, and many other items.