Its funny that I've never felt that 'vibe', and I'm pretty sensitive to that kinda thing...I used to get that at Grimsby Tackle from the previous owner...Martin, the new owner couldn't be friendlier!
I fish NY waters...Was told by a border guard carry your passport to avoid any trouble. Last spring I was topped by NY DEC and County Sheriff, they only asked to see licenses and PFDs...I won't be calling the 1-800# when I return home...I'll just have to risk it!
Since you'll be trolling with it a clicker is a likely must have feature...A Calcutta 400B is good choice, as is a Daiwa Luna 300, both are over $200 though...But well worth the money. A St.Croix Avid AC300 is about $225, exact same as a discontinued Daiwa Millionaire CV-Z 300, which is a bombproof reel! And very similar to the Luna and Calcutta 400B. I'd suggest spending a bit more and never worrying about replacing it.
Vince, what do you plan on doing with it? Is it an all-around Muskie rod that you plan on casting and trolling with? Or is it technique specific, like to be used for Jerkbaits?