Even when using a disc drag reel, I set it with only enough tension to prevent free-spooling when a fish takes off. From then on, I prefer to palm the reel for more positive control. before this, I have broken fish off by having the tension set too tightly.I'm a clicker guy for sure. But that said, not all clickers are the same. Many of the new (and old) hardy's I've played with are way too light on the tension. Over spin when you pull line off, and not enough tension to even prick the tip of the hook into a fish. I've watch plenty of bites where the line starts coming off and the fish is just able to drop it.
This is one reason I like the Speyco reels. With all 6 springs in, it's tighter than I would ever fish a disc drag reel, with no risk of slippage or hydroplaning like I have witnessed with even high end drag reels. As for the two Hardys I do fish with, both have replacement springs from Archeletta reel works to make the tension quite a bit tighter.
I have to disagree about landing the fish quicker on a drag reel. Some people will and some won't. Depends on experience. I can put the wood to a fish as hard as I want with a clicker that is easily palmable, but when he makes those quick dives near the end game, I can ease pressure and reduce the number of hook pulls near the net. This is one problem I see with drags occasionally if they are too tight. More fish lost near the net/beach. And with every reel often a bit different, you reach down to lighten or tighten a drag during the fight and you just don't know where you're at anymore. I've witnessed reels go into freespool or lockdown/breakoff mode when the drag is adjusted in the middle of a fight and the adrenaline is flowing.
When I do fish a drag reel, it's set about the same as a strong clicker. never touch the drag. At which point there's really no difference between the two.
also have to agree, Chinook are different.