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Forum nameNew Product Introductions and Product Availability
Topic subjectOkuma Reels
Topic URLhttp://www.calfishing.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=13&topic_id=657
657, Okuma Reels
Posted by Joe C, Sun Mar-06-05 01:14 PM
I got the O.K to purchase a new reel for throwing swimbaits. I read on here that some of you use okuma reels.I'm not familiar with these reels.I'm not planning on throwing anything bigger than a 10" bait.Can any of you that use these reels suggest what size would work for this application.I'm going to put it on a 8' Rogue rod.
Thanks for your help.

Joe C
658, RE: Okuma Reels
Posted by Mattlures, Sun Mar-06-05 07:45 PM
Get a 400 size. I can cast very far with my induron and when I have 25 lb test I can see the spool on a long cast. The larger size also doubles as a great inshore reel. I love my Indurons and my friend has a Nytryx that he loves. That sized reel doesnt seem so big after you get used to throwing it for a while.
659, RE: Okuma Reels
Posted by Joe C, Sun Mar-06-05 08:25 PM
Thanks Matt
Thats the one i'm been looking at a Induron 400-XL. Iv'e only been throwing these baits for about a month and have had some success using a cardff 301LH with a 7' 6" daiwa. It seems to work for the smaller 6" baits but i'm wanting to throw the larger sizes.I've talked Diane over a lakeside baits about getting a couple of your baits.They look great and can't wait to get them. Swimbaits are kind of hard to come by here in Az.So i'm looking for some thing these fish have not seen before.

Joe C
660, RE: Okuma Reels
Posted by agrazela, Mon Mar-07-05 12:26 PM
Joe,

I have been using an Okuma Nitryx 400 for about 6 months now. I use it with 15lb copolymer on a 7'6" M Shimano Teramar, and the rig pulls double duty for big leadheads (1.5 to 3 oz) and sardines.

I bought this reel because I had been using Okuma spinners to good effect, and I got it cheap on E-Bay. I chose the Nitryx over the Induron because I wanted fewer bearings/less maintenance for saltwater use.

It casts well, and the drags are smooth...though you've got to store them loosened up, because I've noticed Okuma drags will mash down and get "sticky" if you leave them buckled down (made that mistake on a Convector CN-30). The Nitryx is very easy to pull apart to clean and lube. The handles are very comfortable. The frame is very solid.

Mechanically, the Nitryx has held up great. I only have two complaints:
1) The chrome plating on exterior plastic parts flaked off within a week (this has happened on all 5 Okuma reels I own).
2) If you accidentally leave the clicker on when you cast, the clicker pawl springs WILL get knocked off their frame mounts.

I have not had to deal with Okuma service...can't comment on that.

Would I buy another Nitryx? No, because Shimano just came out with the newly redesigned Cardiff "A" series for under $100. I recently got a Cardiff 200A for smaller leadheads; it is smoother casting and it has the dartanium drags (they hold their settings better and they don't mash down). Assuming the ARB bearings hold up over time, then my plan is to eventually replace the Nitryx with a Cardiff 400A.

I would recommend the Nitryx ONLY if you absolutely can't spend more than about $40.
662, RE: Okuma Reels
Posted by Joe C, Wed Mar-09-05 04:51 PM
Well I did it I just purchased a Induron 400 XL yesterday should be here fri. I'm gong to the lake this weekend to try it out.