[finaddict5]

I've read on the Barn that many folks are happy with the performance of Okuma spinning reels. I've always liked Shimano for their smooth operation with little or no backlash and solid anti-reverse. I am looking to find which model Okumas would be comparible in performance to the Shimano Stradics? Are they really a better value? My Stradics only last about 3 years realistically(that's if I don't run them over). After that they are pretty beat up and need replacing. At $125 X 3, this can get a little expensive. I know Penns are way more durable but I just love the smooth operation of the Shimanos. Just considering my options since I hoping to find a few good deals at the Boat Show or Flea Markets. Thanks in advance.

 

[Verse]

last year i had an okuma avenger. it had 8 ball bearings and looked really pretty!

I didnt like it and am glad that that big ol stripper pulled that rig in the water last year.

It was cheaper, but didnt have the pulling power that i liked when it was needed. stick with the shimano, maybe go for a model that amy not be as expensive.

i have just purchased an abu garcia bait caster, and cant wet to get it wet, it seems smooth as silk, and does everything but catch the fish for you. I Paid 90 for it

 

[Got Bass?]

I fish both brands and like them both.

 

[VDAWG]

okuma has a bait runner spinning reel,it comes with 2 spools,i have 3 of them.no problems with any.i love them 10 bb's and smooth as a babies arse,that would be the epixor eb models,some will tell you that they are cheap,well they are but just in price alot less than the shimano that are comprable,Vinny

 

[FISHCOUNSELOR]

I have both types,, no problems with either

 

[BLUEFINN]

I have five Okuma CD50's and two CD65's and a Shamino!I love them all and have never had a problem with any of them! I beat the hell out of one CD50 and a 65 last season without a hitch,For my money the Okuma is a better value.

 

[chunking]

Have both, use both, love both.

I have a long history with Shimano. Use some very small reels for freshwater and any problem I have had I can blame on myself.

Just started using a few Okuma reels last year. So far I have had no problems with them. Now when I go fishing I don't even look at the reel on the rod. It's either a Shimano or Okuma and I have total confidence in both.

 

[Bob ECT]

I've beaten up an EF40 pretty good. Lasted alot longer then I expected, definitely worth the money.

Daiwa also has some great low priced reels that will put some pressure on Okuma and Tica. Penn also has a new line coming out soon in that price range.

 

[finaddict5]

Thanks to all. What model Okuma do you like?

 

[VDAWG]

epixor Eb for the bait runner and 10 bb's and spare spool

 

[Got Bass?]

Epixor ef40 with 30lb.power pro.on a 8ft.med. heavy rod. Its my workhorse plugging ,eeling,live lining.I like a long pole.

 

[flukesnatcher]

TRY A TICA SA3500. LOOKS AND FEELS LIKE THE STRADIC 4000 BUT HAS HALF THE PRICE TAG. I HAVE 6 STRADICS AND PURCHASED THE TICA THIS YEAR. IF YOU WERE TO CLOSE YOUR EYES YOU WOULD NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. NOT TO MENTION THE SA3500 HAS 10BB. 2 MORE THAN THE STRADIC. OUR ADVERTISERS HAVE THEM ASK THEM FOR THEIR OPINION.

 

[flukesnatcher]

TRY A TICA SA3500. LOOKS AND FEELS LIKE THE STRADIC 4000 BUT HAS HALF THE PRICE TAG. I HAVE 6 STRADICS AND PURCHASED THE TICA THIS YEAR. IF YOU WERE TO CLOSE YOUR EYES YOU WOULD NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. NOT TO MENTION THE SA3500 HAS 10BB. 2 MORE THAN THE STRADIC. OUR ADVERTISERS HAVE THEM ASK THEM FOR THEIR OPINION.

 

[finaddict5]

Thanks again lads. Going with the Epixor I think.

 

[YoungGun24]

I personally like shimano better. I have a variety of both makes and shimano is much smoother and more durable than the okuma's I have. For the money the stradic is a better reel than the epixor and it will last longer if you take relativly good care of it. The maitnance port on the stradic, sustain and the stella is a plus as well.

 

[KeysKid]

The Okuma Inspira is super smooth..and about 75 bucks a pop..its there smoothest bar none. Also, the new Shimano Spheros is in that price range, just about as smooth as a stradic and has a waterproof drag, great reel! I use both, and love them both. The Spheros also comes in a 3000 size which other shimanos do not..matchs up perfect with a 7ft. stick.

 

[jweiss41]

Okuma makes several reels that perform well and are a good value. My picks, in spinning reels, are the Epixor EF series and EB- bait runner series, The Coronado- CD bait runner series, and the Fina series. The Avenger is a good entry level reel for the price, but that's all.

 

[jimmatthews]

If you take the side plate off an Epixor you will find some flimsy looking plastic parts that
will not make you feel very confident about its durability. If you take the spool off and compare the center shaft to a Spheros you will find that the Shimano has a larger diameter shaft
which will be less likely to distort with a big fish on. The Okumas look so nice that they are hard to resist and they weigh 3 or 4 ounces less than a comparable Shimano but how do you think
they achieved that weight saving ? Think about it. As for their ball bearing claims, reels arent that complicated that they need 10 ball bearings. A proven workhorse like the Shimano baitrunner 4500 does just fine with 4 ball bearings. I think the 10 ball bearings are for marketing purposes more than anything else. To me most of the Shimanos are too heavy to balance
properly with a graphite rod and this is the only reason to pick an Okuma instead but don't kid yourself...you get what you pay for.

 

[pgoins]

I have 2 Isnpira IS50's and one IS40. I love them. I haven't used a shimano at all. I used to use strictly Penn, but since I gave the Okuma a shot I haven't looked back. The first IS50 I got, I matched up with an 8' Loomis(My favorite Combo). I beat the crap out of both rod and reel. I use 50# PP and used last June in Deal, living bunker of the jetties. I was able to land 4 fish over 35 lbs easly. Even when it got corwded on the beach and I had to tighten up the drag to gain better control of the fish I had no problems.

I don't think they are making the Inspira any more. But you can find them on EBay all the time. I just got one for $60. Can't beat that. If not the Expior looks great too.

I guess it all depends on what you want to spend. The same reel in the Shimano costs twice as much.

 

[hipkvw]

Shimano....Fish The BEST!

[ 02-10-2004, 02:10 PM: Message edited by: hipkvw ]