Okuma is not a name that is mentioned much around conversations about fishing reels, even though it should be. This brand has a wide selection of fishing reels with different designs and specifications suited to your specific fishing needs. In this guide, I’ll be reviewing the best Okuma fishing reels that are on the market and how each of them could be the best one for you.
Who is Okuma?
Okuma is a Taiwan based company that has been producing accessible but top-quality fishing reels and fishing rods since 1986. While its main manufacturing and research and development centers are in Taiwan and China, Okuma also has distribution companies in the USA. Their logo is the bear claw, signifying the primal nature of man’s fight against the ocean. This time-tested company has produced some impressive gear I’ve used in the past few years and in this guide I’ll be listing the best Okuma fishing reels I’m acquainted with.
The Best Okuma Reels Reviewed in this Guide
Best Okuma Fishing Reels List
Whether you’re looking for a big game reel or a spinning reel for light tackle, the Best Okuma Fishing Reels has a model that will meet your needs. So if you’re in the market for a new reel, be sure to check out the Best Okuma Fishing Reels below.
The Overall Best Okuma Fishing Reels
Okuma Komodo SS Series
Let’s get the best Okuma fishing reels out of the way first so we can start with what I consider to be the most capable fishing reels I’ve had my hands on. Both beginner and veteran anglers will love this entry due to its lightweight frame but an extreme drag. The Okuma Komodo SS is a heavy-duty reel capable of battling large predatory fish both in freshwater and saltwater with its 30-pound maximum drag output.
I personally prefer baitcast reels over spinning reels due to the multitude of features and the drag-to-weight ratio. The Komodo stands out from other Okuma baitcast reels with its amount of drag output and its multitude of features while maintaining a lightweight body. The SS in the Komodo stands for stainless steel with its main gear, pinion gear, drive shaft and spool shaft all made of the durable, heavy-duty material.
Okuma Komodo SS Series Specs:
- Max drag: 30 lbs
- Line retrieve: 37.7”
- Gear ratio: 7.1:1
- Bearings: 7HPB+1RB
- Weight: 1.03 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braided
Okuma Komodo SS Features:
- Main Gear is Stainless Steel
- Precision Machine Cut Pinion Gear
- Corrosion Resistant Coating
- Carbonite Drag System with Multi-Disc
- Drag Star System with Micro-click feature
- Dual Anti-Reverse system
- Clicker feature that can be toggled
- Anti-Reverse Roller Bearing
- Sturdy Diecast Aluminum Frame and
- Diecast Aluminum Side Plates
- Stainless Steel Drive
- Stainless Steel Spool Shafts
- Heavy duty stainless steel drive and spool shafts
Pros
The Okuma Komodo SS is one of the most durable baitcast reels I’ve owned with its stainless steel frame and parts. Casting is smooth and easy with its light weight and I’ve never had a backlash with this reel. The clicker feature is also a godsend and is quite a rare feature in baitcast reels, making it easy for nighttime fishing or whenever it’s hard for you to see your line.
Cons
The Komodo SS doesn’t have as much line capacity as its competitors and this can lead to big fish spooling you faster.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Saltwater Fishing
Okuma Cedros Saltwater Spinning Reel Series
Saltwater fishing can be a demanding trip for any item in your tackle box, especially the reels. The usual spray and splashing from waves can get saltwater into your reel’s gears and ball bearings, leading to corrosion and rust. The best Okuma fishing reels for the seas should be able handle all the challenges of saltwater fishing and that’s where the Okuma Cedros series comes in.
The Okuma Cedros Spinning Reel is a beast in drag output due to its Okuma exclusive feature: the DFD or precision Dual Force Drag system. This enables the Cedros to manage over 44 lbs of drag, smoothly reeling in your next biggest catch such as large as bluefin and yellowfin. Its magnesium and aluminum alloy construction and its corrosion-resistant ball bearings render it resistant to the damage saltwater can deal. These are easily the best Okuma fishing reels for saltwater fishing.
Okuma Cedros Saltwater Spinning Reel Series Specs:
- Max drag: 44 lbs
- Line retrieve: 45.8”
- Gear ratio: 5.4:1
- Bearings: 6BB+1RB
- Weight: 1.34 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braided
Okuma Cedros Saltwater Spinning Reel Series Features:
- Precision Dual Force Drag system
- Precise multi-disc drag adjustment
- Durable and corrosion resistant LITECAST® material
- Corrosion resistant coating
- Corrosion resistant stainless steel bearings
- Dual anti-reverse system
- Quick-Set and ratchet system
- Manual bail trip feature
- HDGII: durable, anti-corrosion, high density gearing
- Machine cut brass pinion gear
- Aluminum, 2-tone anodized spool
- Aluminum, screw-in handle arm
Pros
The Okuma Cedros Spinning Reel is great for vertical jigging and bottom fishing, very effective for fighting against fish who dash with sharp turns. The Cedros is also very light and I’ve gone entire fishing trips with plenty of casting without straining my arms with this reel. The drag adjustment allows for a precise amount of tension so you’ll have more freedom in choosing the best amount of drag that you want for any size of fish.
Cons
Some users might find the Okuma Cedros Spinning Reel’s default handle to be a bit short and this may cause discomfort and a sub-optimal reeling action.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Surf Fishing
Okuma Rockaway Spinning Reel Series
Surf fishing is one of my favorite variations of catching fish. It’s a lot of fun being at the beach on a sunny day, feeling the fresh sea breeze flowing, and hearing the relaxing sounds of the waves. It can be a lot more fun if you add fishing to the mix, but that requires the right tools even if you’re in such a setting. The best Okuma fishing reels for surf fishing is what you’ll need and that reel is the Okuma Rockaway Spinning Reel.
The Okuma Rockaway is first and foremost a long distance caster perfect for reaching your targets while you’re standing at the beach. The crank is smooth and the handle has yet to make me slip. The Rockaway is also built to withstand corrosion and rust from the constant spraying and splashing of seawater.
Okuma Rockaway Spinning Reel Series Specs:
- Max drag: 16 lbs
- Line retrieve: 40.9”
- Gear ratio: 5.3:1
- Bearings: 4BB+1RB
- Weight: 1.37 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braided
Okuma Rockaway Spinning Reel Series Features:
- Stainless steel bearing system
- Anti-reverse, quick set roller bearing
- Machine cut brass pinion gear
- Anti-corrosion frame, sideplate and rotor
- Sturdy metal handle design
- Long-range cast
- 2-tone anodized aluminum spool
Pros
The Okuma Rockaway stands out due to its spool capacity enabling you to cast over long distances even with heavier lines. The rotor equalizing system gives the Rockaway precision balance, leading to smooth cranking and perfect alignments. And to top it all off, this reel is one of the cheapest Okuma reels out there, perfect for those on a tight budget.
Cons
The maximum drag output of the Okuma Rockaway lags behind other reels in this list, so I wouldn’t recommend it for large fish or heavy bruisers. There are also reported cases of the reel having spool wobble, especially during fast and high-stress cranking.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Bait Fishing
Okuma Avenger ABF Series
Baitfeeding or baitrunning is a fishing technique where when the fish strikes the bait, the angler lets the fish “run” with the bait for a little while before engaging their spool. This is useful especially for those who like to fish using live bait and for catching fish that need a few moments to run with the bait before fish on. The best Okuma fishing reels for this type of fishing goes to a remastered classic, the Okuma Avenger ABF Series.
The Okuma Avenger ABF adds a few significant features to the classic design of the original Avenger. However, it is still much the same or even slightly better than its predecessor. This reel is iconic for its auto-trip bait feeding system where you can adjust the bait feeding drag and it automatically disengages when you crank the spool.
Okuma Avenger ABF Series Specs:
- Max drag: 26 lbs
- Line retrieve: 34.1”
- Gear ratio: 4.5:1
- Bearings: 6BB+1RB
- Weight: 0.44 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Fly
Okuma Avenger ABF Series Features:
- Auto trip bait feeding system with On/Off switch
- Japanese oiled felt drag system with multiple discs
- Stainless steel bearing system
- Anti-corrosion frame, side plate and rotor
- Sturdy metal handle design
- Computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System or RESII
- Aluminum, 2-tone anodized spool
- Anti-reverse roller bearing, quick set
- Cyclonic Flow Rotor technology
- Machine cut brass pinion gear
Pros
The Okuma Avenger is one of the most widely-used baitfeeder reels out there. It’s cheap, durable, and is packed with features that make it ideal for live bait fishing. The Avenger ABF works smoothly with its Cyclonic Flow Rotor tech that provides ample airflow for the discs of its interior. The ABF-8000 variant can battle against large fish with its 26 lbs of maximum drag output.
Cons
This reel has a pretty low gear ratio and that might be an issue if you prefer faster reeling. The line can also have issues like bird nesting, especially when the line gets wet.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels with Star Drag
Okuma Cortez Star Drag Reels
Star drag reels are a special kind of fishing reel because they differ in drag system placement and switch design from other drag systems. Reels with star drag usually have a star-looking dial right between the spool and the crank. These reels are good for long distance casting, free spooling, and precise drag adjustments.
The best Okuma fishing reels that have star drag systems have to be the Okuma Cortez Star Drag Reels. The Okuma Cortez is a very versatile reel, capable of handling inshore or offshore fishing and very durable for the saltwater environment. The star drag of this reel allows for fast and precise drag adjustments even during high-stress reeling.
Okuma Cortez Star Drag Reels Specs:
- Max drag: 17 lbs
- Line retrieve: 43”
- Gear ratio: 6.2:1
- Bearings: 4BB+1RB
- Weight: 1.56 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braid
Okuma Cortez Star Drag Reels Features:
- Graphite frame and sideplates
- Aluminum, anodized spool
- Carbonite drag system, Multi-disc
- Anodized star built with forged aluminum
- Anodized aluminum swept handle
- Stainless steel bearings
- External magnetic cast control system or MCS
- Ergonomic grip handle knob
- Mechanical & roller bearing dual anti-reverse system
- Drop down gearbox with XL Gearing
- Anti-reverse roller bearing, quick set
- Mechanical Stabilizing System or MSS
- Self-lubricating gear system
- Made using the highest quality materials
Pros
The Cortez is one of the most versatile fishing reels that Okuma has produced. This is also one of the smoothest reels I’ve encountered because of its wobble-free cranking and minimized risk of backlash. The Okuma Cortez with its star drag provides instantaneous adjustments on your needed drag output so as to prevent you from breaking your line and ensuring that next big catch.
Cons
The Cortez does not have as much drag output as other Okuma reels in this list and this can lead to large fish and big bruisers spooling you more easily.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Trolling
Okuma Convector Low Profile Reels
Trolling for fish such as walleye can be challenging, especially without the right gear. Reels for trolling ideally have line counters that can measure the length of line you’ve cast so your lure can be in the right depth for your target fish. And for trolling, the best Okuma fishing reels for me is the Okuma Convector Low Profile series.
The Convector is an ideal reel for trolling but its capabilities are not limited to that specific type of fishing. This reel features a line counter with Clear View Technology and anti-fogging, so you’ll be saved from the hassle of regularly wiping your counter in high humidity settings. It’s also very compact and lightweight but still delivers a solid drag output.
Okuma Convector Low Profile Reel Specs
- Max drag: 22 lbs
- Line retrieve: 25.9”
- Gear ratio: 6.2:1
- Bearings: 2BB+1RB
- Weight: 0.73 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braid
Okuma Convector Low Profile Reel Features:
- Machine cut brass main gears
- Machine cut pinion gears
- Mechanical line counter function uses feet in measurement
- Clear View Technology, anti-fogging for the line counter
- Stainless steel bearings
- Spool engagement mechanism is automatic trip
- Machined aluminum, anodized spool
- High output, Carbonite drag system with multi discs
- Dual anti-reverse
- Synchronized levelwind designed for braided line
- Switch for precision lure/bait placement with quick-drop
- Available in both right and left hand crank
- Clicker feature with on/off switch
- Precision machine cut brass main and pinion gears
Pros
The Okuma Convector stands out due to its compact and lightweight body while still providing a strong maximum drag output. It works well for trolling due to its many features such as the line counter that doesn’t fog. The clicker system is also handy, especially for trolling where you have multiple reels to watch out for.
Cons
The Convector can be a hard reel to get the feel for the drag. Its drag is smooth but it can go to free spool to a deadlock in an instant while making it hard to dial precisely for the levels in between.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels with Lever Drag
Okuma Makaira Special Edition Lever Drag Series
If you’re into fishing as a sport or simply want to catch big game that can pull up to a hundred pounds, you have to get the big boys. Lever drag fishing reels are optimal for big game such as tuna due to their usual incredible amounts of drag output. And if you’re an experienced angler, one advantage of lever drag reels is the customizable and precise drag adjustment.
The best Okuma fishing reels that are in the family of this special type of reel is the Okuma Makaira Special Edition Series. The Makaira is built to battle against once in a lifetime catches and the heaviest bruisers out there. This amazing piece of equipment comes at a steep cost but it’s worth every dollar on its price tag.
Okuma Makaira Special Edition Lever Drag Series Specs:
- Max drag: 100 lbs
- Line retrieve: 45.6”
- Gear ratio: 3.1:1
- Bearings: 2BB+1RB
- Weight: 0.73 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Braid
Okuma Makaira Special Edition Lever Drag Series Features:
- Open spool ball bearings with TSI-301 oil
- Fast free spooling
- Grease-packed spool bearings
- Full grease pack for maximum longevity
- Special Edition anodizing
- Yellowfin tuna etched into the sideplate
- Increased clearance between spool and cross bars
- 6061-T6 Machined aluminum frame with forged side plates
Pros
The Okuma Makaira Special Edition has a silky smooth crank operation even in high-stress reeling. This amazing piece of equipment is built for big game and can withstand the punishment of battling against large and strong fish. You can go for hours reeling in that catch of a lifetime and the Makaira won’t even flinch.
Cons
This reel comes at a hefty price so I can only recommend this to experienced or expert anglers.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Fly Fishing
Okuma SLV Fly Reel
Fly fishing is a challenging but relaxing sport that traces its origins back to ancient Rome. Fly fishing reels are special because they’re generally designed to be single action, in other words, a 1:1 gear ratio. They’re also designed to be ultra-light to better accommodate the motions of fly fishing casting. The best Okuma Fishing reels for this classic way of fishing is definitely the Okuma SLV Fly Reel and its variations.
The Okuma SLV Fly Reel is one of those value reels where you get a bang for every buck. The SLV is a reliable fly fishing reel with a large arbor spool that gives it fast line retrieval. The aluminum frame of the SLV helps keep it lightweight without sacrificing drag.
Okuma SLV Fly Reel Specs:
- Line retrieve: 9.6”
- Gear ratio: 1:1
- Bearings: 1RB
- Weight: 0.3 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Fly
Okuma SLV Fly Reel Features:
- Multi-disk cork
- Drag washers made of stainless steel
- One directional ball bearing
- Machine cut brass bushing drive system
- Machine cut stainless steel spool shaft
- Frame made of Alumilite diecast aluminum or ALC
- Super large arbor spool made of diecast aluminum
- Rubberized handle knobs with non-slip positive grip
- Retrieve can be converted to either right or left hand
- Multi-Disk Cork and Stainless Steel Drag Washers
Pros
The Okuma SLV is great if you’re looking for a budget fly fishing reel. The light frame of the SLV makes it easier for repetitive casting during fly fishing. The cast on this reel is smooth like butter. The drag output of the SLV is minimal and will help in precise free running of the spool.
Cons
The main drawback for this reel is the aluminum frame that can be prone to bending when dropped. The interior of the reel is not sealed so you’ll have to maintain the drag knob threads whenever it’s exposed to sand or saltwater.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for Float Fishing
Okuma Raw II Float Reels
Float fishing is one of the most popular types of fishing among anglers. Float reels are comparable to fly reels in design but the former are much larger. These kinds of reels are advantageous for catching certain types of fish due to the precise amount of control you can have on how much line you want to give the fish.
The title for the best Okuma fishing reels for float fishing will definitely go to the Okuma Raw II and its variations. This reel is designed for both smooth cranking and palming with minimal drag. The Raw II is a lightweight but solid piece of equipment for your float fishing needs.
Okuma Raw II Float Reels Specs:
- Line retrieve: 13”
- Gear ratio: 1:1
- Bearings: 2BB
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- Fishing Line Type: Fly
Features:
- Machine cut aluminum frame and spool
- Rigid Type-II anodized frame and spool
- Japanese design stainless steel ball bearings
- Machined spool shaft made of stainless steel
- Machine cut durable frame design
- Ratchet system with on/off click
- Exposed rim ported spool
- Protective neoprene reel shield by Okuma
- Precision 6061-T6 Machined aluminum frame and spool
Pros
The Okuma Raw II is a great introduction for beginners to centerpin fishing reels. As for value, the Raw II fares a lot better than the competition in its price point. With the right lure weight, you can cast far with this reel. Palming and cranking the reel feels very smooth too.
Cons
When you use light lures, the reel can fail to let the line peel off during casting or in flowing current. Also, the aluminum frame is prone to bending.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels for All-Around Fishing
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reels
Sturdy, strong, and reliable are the things you want to look out for whenever you’re considering tackle for all-around fishing. There are pretty powerful fish out there and you’ll need equipment that is designed around how much these big bruisers can fight. And for that, the best Okuma reels for all-around fishing are the Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reels.
The Ceymar series is a technical marvel that comes at a budget price. Because a lot of fish live in waters that can get sediments into your gear, the Custom Black is designed to resist intrusion and corrosion.
Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reels Features:
- Powerful drag system with multiple discs
- Stainless steel ball bearings
- Roller bearings with quick-set and anti-reverse system
- Pinion gear made of machine cut brass
- Anti-corrosion Blade Body Design
- 2-tone spool made of machined aluminum
- Features an ergo grip handle
Pros
The Ceymar is sturdy, strong, and reliable which is what you need when fishing for all kinds of fish. This reel’s maximum drag output is decent and smooth enough to allow you to hold off the biggest bruisers. Its durability is on par with the best Okuma fishing reels out there even with a much cheaper price.
Cons
Its gear ratio is comparably slower than other fishing reels of this size.
The Best Okuma Fishing Reels Buying Guide
What is a fishing reel in the first place?
There are two main parts of your fishing gear and those are the fishing rod and the fishing reel. A fishing reel is the cranking reel responsible for spooling, casting, and stowing your fishing line. Fishing reels are an essential part of modern angling.
How does a fishing reel work?
Generally, all reels work quite the same. The most basic parts of any reel are the spool and the handle. The spool houses your fishing line. Whenever you crank the handle, the reeling mechanism works and as a result, your line is retracted back to the spool so your terminal tackle can be retrieved.
Types of Okuma fishing reels
Centerpin Reel
A centerpin reel is a single action reel meaning the amount of rotation it makes is equal to the number of times you crank it. This reel is designed to counterbalance the weight of a rod and enable smooth strike spooling. Centerpin reels are ideal for fly fishing and float fishing due to their lightweight frames.
Baitcasting Reel
A baitcasting reel is a conventional reel whose spool revolves whenever you crank it. Their gear mechanisms are designed to rotate the spool multiple times with every crank. Baitcasting reels are preferred by professional anglers due to their smooth casting capabilities allowing them faster and more precise casts even with heavier bait or lures.
Spinning Reel
Spinning reels are designed to cast lures that are too light for conventional reels to cast. These reels have fixed spools that don’t spin. Instead, the wire cage or the bail is responsible for retrieving the line.
Features to look for in the best Okuma fishing reels
Durability
Fishing can be a challenging sport or hobby and your gear will face abuse especially during high-stress situations. You’ll want a reel that can handle these situations over and over again. The best Okuma fishing reels have high quality parts and mechanisms that are resistant to intrusion or corrosion and won’t break or bend on impact easily.
Reliability
Repetition is something you’ll get used to when taking up fishing as a hobby. You’ll be casting, fighting, and retrieving again and again on every fishing trip. The best Okuma fishing reels will have consistent results on every cast and on every retrieve. So look for reels that have the same output in every cycle.
Power
Drag output is something you should look out for when buying a new fishing reel. The higher the drag output, the less likely you’ll get spooled by a fish. The best Okuma fishing reels are designed to have the optimal drag output for that specific type of fishing you want to try.
Frequently Asked Questions about Okuma fishing reels
How do I select the right reel for me?
First, you have to determine the species of fish you want to catch. Second, you have to figure out which lines or lures you need to catch this target species. Finally, look for the fishing reel that has the appropriate drag output and line/lure capacity.
What do I do if I get my line twisted?
Check if your line is correctly wound on the spool. Line twists usually happen because the line is incorrectly wound. Slowly wind the line back and ensure that the line is straight on the spool.
Why does my reel feel like it has no drag pressure?
The drag washers might be worn out. You can find replacements for the washers or you can send them to an Okuma repair center.
Why does my reel backlash on casts?
There might be a few reasons. Your spool tension might not be adjusted properly. The magnetic control system and/or the velocity control system is not appropriately adjusted.
Now go enjoy your new Okuma reel!
After reading this guide, I hope you’ve learned plenty about Okuma fishing reels and I hope you’ve found the best Okuma fishing reels for you. There’s plenty of fish in the sea and they’re not gonna catch themselves. Familiarize yourself with your gear, read and follow the manuals carefully, and enjoy the next fishing trip, dear angler!