Are you talking about the plunking in which one casts bait a few feet out and waits for a cowbell to ring?
My skill with level wind reels is pretty damn high- if I have about 20' of free line wrapped around the reel and apply Scotch Tape to firmly secure any more line from coming out.
I live and will die a staunch Shimano supporter. Their customer service isn't what it was even 5 years ago, but their products are smooth, long-lasting and bullet proof.
Eamon