A reverse gear box device is disclosed that provides an ergonomic fit while making it easy to access a drag lever. The reverse gear box device is configured to fit ergonomically in the hand of a user, allowing for secure and comfortable grip of the gear box device, regardless of whether the drag lever is located in an engagement position or a maximum drag position. The reverse gear box device comprises a reel unit having a center point, where the reel unit is configured to releasably hold a fishing line, a housing that is attached to the reel unit, the housing have a first end that is near said center point and a second end that is opposite from said first end, and a drag lever that is connected to at least one of the reel unit and the housing, wherein the second end of the housing is located aft a perpendicular centerline that is formed between said center point and a pole longitudinal axis at an angle of about 90° with respect to the pole longitudinal axis.
