Another good series of reels that no one has mentioned is the Shimano Spheros, with the optimal sizes for pier fishing probably being the 12000 or the 14000. I've used the 14000 for a couple of years now, rigged with Spectra, for throwing poppers at yellowfin tuna. I have not experienced a failure yet with this reel, and we've caught some fish approaching 100 pounds on it. I do not see why it wouldn't work for big fish off of piers. Expect to pay about $130 for one, which is pretty reasonable in today's market. As someone mentioned, the SSm's by Penn's are good, too, even though they are made in China. The Chinese factories are light years ahead of where they were just a few years ago. Hard to find a current model Made In USA reel anymore.
As for me? I use the trusty Penn 706Z's. Got three of them on different action rods for different applications. They just work if you practice with them. I fished the GS pier since 1986 with them and have caught a bunch of quality fish...they're just made for pier fishing, in my estimation.
Good luck with your choice...