I have the same problem with the Cabela's Depthmaster reels. If there is any tension on the line (so any time I'm running divers) you have to roll the spool back with your thumb before you can open the bail. It's a major pain in the butt when you're running big boards and have to constantly let out more line.

I also have some Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500LC reels that I love. I know everyone swears by Tekotas, but I think the Ambassadeur is smoother. The only thing I don't like on them is the line counter will stick and sometimes you have to reset them a second time to get them rolling, but they're easy to let out and they have a clicker on them in case you want to turn the drag up and open-bail troll with them. They can be found for around $120-130 each. The 5500LC is probably plenty for any trolling you're going to do in the Western Basin and they're around $10 less per reel, plus you save on line when you respool them.