I must say I don't think it takes me any longer to land a fish on a pin than a fixed spool, but I do know I have more control.
Yes it can be a pain retrieving the tackle, but again I think I can "batt" a pin back quite quickly.
Casting can take time to master but it is a bit like using a clutch on a car for the first time once you get it, it becomes some thing you do without a thought.
Where I do win is in the amount of control I have on my float as it trots down the swim, I could not possibly control the tackle with a fixed spool in the same way, the only time the fixed spool wins there, is when it is blowing a hoolie and even then I will persevere with a pin on the stick, or even a waggler until I have no choice.
Fixed spool reels are probably fine for ledgering, but then again everyone can do that!
I am NOT one of those anglers that insists on using a Centre Pin because it is traditional or even because it has become fashionable, I use one because it is the best tool for controlling float tackle, free lining or rolling baits by far, when some smart ars……..person invents a fixed spool reel that can control gear the way a pin does I will put all mine up on flea bay in an instant, but until then………………………….!
Tight lines chaps.