They actually been on the shelves down here since late September/October. The owner us to work for basspro as reel buyer and his company is located in Springfield, MO where basspro located. Then ask yourself why is Lew's in Cabelas and not Basspro? Why would I want a reel if I was basspro that is the same reel as my store brand reels.
When I needed to repair mine Lew's didn't even have parts. I actually went to basspro and got a pro qaulifier and bam for tat in parts, same lube port, and design for less money. Only difference is Lew's reels are black with tear drop handles. That sure sounds like innovation to me ;D