Been waiting 40 years

[cutuzov]

Such a great story. I wish you lived a little closer to my location to walk you trough my favorite fishing grounds. I can offer an advice only. Try to talk to the guys you see fishing in the area. If you see someone with center pin setup just start the conversation with asking about the guy's rod and reel. It is a best starter simply because some people are trading vacations worth for this type of reel. From there local knowledge will start beaming off the person
You are on the right pass anyway. Keep trying, keep researching.
Good Luck