SportFishingScene is where I get my servicing done, usually after them getting drowned in a sand monster.
This what I do for my basic reels, I buy Sienna's for around $40 and servicing is usually about $30 so I just run them into the ground and replace every year or so.
On a kayak where it's always getting exposed to salt and sand so it's not worth using good expensive gear.
Going by those prices I'm thinking its more economical to buy mid priced quality reels, work them hard, but with care. Obviously avoid water and sand intrusion. Wash them down etc. after use and replace them with new ones when they no longer perform to acceptable levels.
Seems wasteful though....such a throw away society we live in now days.
I guess the cost is wrapped in the service person's pay. The value of those reels listed above would however justify their servicing costs.
I just had my 12 year old stella 2500 serviced for the first time. Although it hardly needed one. Still like brand new. Was sent to Shimano. $100 they charged me. Couldn't belive it.
From what i'm aware Most of the tackle stores send customers reels to get serviced by Rob Wilson at South Oz Rods. If it is a Shimano Reel or Daiwa Reel depending on whats needed they get sent back to the company and they service them.