Did you have such a thing that you look at some manufacturer or company and think: “Yes, these guys are doing really good things”? These words fully characterize Okuma’s company.
Recently, when I was fishing with my friend Charles, my rod broke and I asked him to lend me some rod from his case. I made a cast and did not notice anything surprising – a classic rod, there are thousands of them on the market. But when it came to fighting fish…
It pulled a 15-pound bass out of the water as if it were small trout. It literally struck me on the spot. When I turned the rod to look at who could create such a powerful monster, I saw the Okuma logo. That is how my first acquaintance with this company happened. These guys make some of the most powerful and strongest rods in the world that really cost the money you pay for it.
The 10 Okuma Rods – Reviews Guide
Today I have prepared an article for you in which I will analyze the 10 best rods from Okuma. We will look at their characteristics, evaluate the work on the water, and reviews professional fishers. Let’s begin!
1# Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Kit – Best Rod Overall
This is one of the best models in the middle price category, and this design has a universal design that allows you to use the rod both during coastal fishing and when fishing from a boat. The handle is ergonomic, made of cork materials that do not begin to slip even when wet, holds well in the hand.
The balance of the fishing rod is perfect – you can hold it in your hands almost the whole day without feeling the slightest fatigue. The design is a composite structure, which is disassembled into two parts. The holder for the coil is also universal, it can be attributed to the classic. The rod is made of graphite, lightweight rings, which allows increasing the range of bait maneuverability.
Included with this rod comes a two-piece case, in which it is very convenient to store and transport this fishing rod and reel, which is also included. However, the cover is quite flexible, therefore, the rod, even placed in the cover, should be handled as carefully as possible. The inner ring inserts are made of silicon carbide – a material that provides minimal friction.
2# Okuma Classic Pro GLT Rods – Best Versatile Rod
The model is equipped with a lightweight handle made of EVA, which does not absorb moisture and practically does not conduct heat. This allows you to comfortably fish in the night and morning hours. With such a handle, the model weighs significantly less – this will be important at the time when you need to get the fish. The rod itself is made of durable fiberglass. It is quite rigid in bending, with its help you can easily get large or even trophy fish without damaging the rod.
Fiberglass easily withstands even significant physical exertion, including temperature changes, it behaves stably with strong gusts of wind. The design of the fishing rod is in two parts, so the casting accuracy is very high. Unlike analogs, the bait with this model can be thrown at a considerable distance. The products are perfect for demi-season or summer fishing. The model is characterized by universality: on such a rod you can catch in river or lake water, on a spinner, wobbler, or on the ordinary float.
3# Okuma Celilo Graphite Spinning Rods – Best Value For Money Rod
This model is considered one of the best among the inexpensive models that are presented on the market today. When unfolded, it has a length of 9’6″. Despite its decent size, the mass of the gear is only 6.5 ounces, it is designed to use bait weighing from 3 to 15 grams. The rod is made of graphite materials of medium rigidity, but very stable in relation to fracture loads. The appearance is unremarkable – the rod is painted in gray and black, which looks rather dull, but this is good on the other hand, as it will not be too noticeable to fish.
The handle is made of cork mixed with foam. It is quite large, but characterized by high ergonomic properties – it easily and conveniently fits in your hand, does not slip out even when fighting large fish. The reel seat is classic, highly reliable stainless steel. On the model, you can count 6 rings. Even at first glance, it is clear that they are budgetary but made of high-quality material with minimal friction.
4# Okuma Nomad Xpress Inshore Rod – Buyer’s Choice
Fishing using the ultralight technique today is becoming more and more popular – it is based on the fact that the fisherman feels the line across all parts of the reservoir, instantly feels the bite of even not too large fish. This is an original series of rods of this class, which differ in minimum weight, and the products are characterized by a high level of strength. Modern rings and a nest for installing a reel are installed on the rod. All of them are very reliable, selected, and placed just perfectly.
This rod is perfect for fishing in lakes and rivers. Fishermen say that pond trout is best caught on such a fishing rod, and besides, it becomes very useful during fishing, when the fish behaves as calmly as possible. The rod is quite flexible, but the level of strength is very high. In particular, it can be practically folded in half and not broken at the same time. Cork handle. The device has a neutral color so that the fish in the pond could not notice the rod above the surface.
The rod works well even with lightweight baits: it can throw them in the chosen place even at a considerable distance. With the right selection of the reel, all the advantages of this fishing rod will be fully revealed.
5# Okuma Serrano Carbon Rod – Best Bass Rod
This model was developed for hunting such cautious fish as the bass, however, when catching other species, this rod proved to be a very effective model. The test range allows you to work with baits, the mass of which is in the range of ¼ to 1 ounce. The fishing rod is characterized by very high sensitivity, so with it, you can control even baits that weigh almost nothing.
The fishing rod is made of carbon materials, it transfers even the slightest fluctuations of the bait to the fisherman. With this effect, the angler will always feel even the slightest bit. In this case, you need to catch the exact moment to hook the fish. The length of the rod is up to 7’6″, and it weighs only 5.6 ounces. The handle on the fishing rod is coated with a special combination material, which includes natural cork and EVA. This substance is even lighter and stronger than just cork.
To equip the rod, special rings are used. They have a minimum coefficient of friction, as well as low resistance to the fishing line. Largely thanks to them, they managed to significantly increase the casting characteristics of the products. The products were originally created for beginner fishermen, but often experienced fishermen also prefer them. The kit also comes with a fabric cover, where it is very convenient to store the rod, for example, in winter.
6# Okuma Fishing CSX-S-1062M Graphite Spinning Rod
It was developed for catching medium fish, so it is best suited for fishermen who prefer to use the lightest lures. The rod is characterized by excellent sensitivity. The rod itself weighs very little, has a small diameter, looks elegant, is practically not noticeable from the water column. The system is very fast, and the elasticity is high, due to which it is possible to provide increased casting characteristics, to achieve the ideal range and accuracy of casting the bait.
The rod is made of the original high modulus graphite format, which is processed with the original coating. The model has very light, strong, and reliable guide rings, which are attached to the gear using two supports. They are additionally equipped with inserts. The handle is not only ergonomic but also well-spaced. It is entirely made from the highest quality rubber, which reduces the mass of the spinning itself, ensures its balance, and increases sensitivity. The device of the real seat is also well thought out, besides, there is a carbon resonator, which also positively affects the overall sensitivity of the model.
7# Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Fishing Rod
This is one of the most modern models, which is used not only for jig fishing but also for twitching. The rod has a soft grip made of EVA material. The ergonomics of the handle are carefully thought out, so the load on the hands practically does not occur during use, and when fighting fish, you do not have to put too much effort. The rod has an original shape, which allows you to position the index finger in the most convenient position. Due to this, the fisherman can almost immediately feel the bite and timely hook the fish.
The fishing rod has special rings that are made by hand. They allow you to not be afraid of tangles even when using soft braided cords instead of a fishing line. The performance is very high. The rod is made of ultra-light fiberglass, is a design that is almost as good as telescopic gear in its quality. A quality holder for the reel is installed here, so the fisherman does not have to worry that he will become loose with the active use of the unit.
8# Okuma SST Ladies Edition
At its reasonable price, this model is characterized by excellent quality. Products are manufactured on the basis of high modulus graphite and fiberglass, so their mass is not too large, they also have a high level of strength and flexibility. The rings are arranged according to classical technology so that the load is distributed evenly throughout the rod. The design of the rod is quite fast, due to which it is possible to provide the most distant casting of the bait.
At the top is a comfortable swivel made using the most modern technology. With its help, it is possible to timely prevent the possible overlap of the fishing line. The design is perfect for a number of lures and for almost all ponds and fishing conditions. The handle is made of finely porous black neoprene.
The form is anatomical, the grip is very strong and confident, even a novice angler will hold the model in his hand in the case when a large fish bites and begins to pull and go to depth. The fishing rod can be called insensitive to various kinds of aggressive influences. The material has high elasticity so that all declared characteristics will last as long as possible.
9# Okuma Sarasota Saltwater Fishing Rod
The developers created this rod specifically for jig fishing. The fishing rod has the most sensitive tip, due to which it was possible to achieve the highest tactility that is needed for jig fishing. Such products are perfect not only for a classic jig but also for all kinds of underwater techniques. The design is fast, due to this, it is possible to ensure the correct and lightest work of the rod, regardless of fishing style.
The general appearance of the rod can immediately indicate a high-class product, although the product is not too expensive. The rod is made from the latest fiberglass, which is characterized by increased strength and good flexibility. Rings have special polymer inserts. They not only reduce friction but also prevent the twisting or tangling of the fishing line.
The reel seat in the fishing rod is a screw-type design, so the reel is securely attached to the rod, without creating any discomfort when fighting even the largest fish. The manufacturer recommends using bait weighing from 9 grams – in this case, you can achieve not only high casting accuracy but also a good range.
10# Okuma PCH Custom Lightweight Fishing Rod
The Okuma PCH Custom heavy fishing rod is another model designed specifically for professionals. Its maximum test is 30 grams, which makes it possible to catch not only small perches but also quite serious prey in the form of river predators. With a length of 7’6″ the weight of the model is 15 ounces – this measure is provided in order to reduce the likelihood of kinked sections under dynamic loads on this rod.
Customer reviews show that the rod appealed to a wide audience. Yes, some are unhappy with the increased weight and complain about the inconvenience and fatigue of the hands when making swings. But exactly before the capture of the first weighty predator. After acquaintance with all the possibilities of the fishing rod, dissatisfied exclamations disappear, and they are replaced by surprise and a pleasant feeling of the right financial investments.
Okuma Rods – Frequently Asked Questions
Okay, we have the 10 best rods, but that’s not all we can tell about Okuma products. In this section, we have answered your most common questions about Okuma!
Where Are Okuma Rods Made?
Let’s immediately reveal the intrigue – this is not China. The main office of the company is located in Taiwan, but, like many companies, Okuma has branches in almost all corners of the world, including the United States.
What’s the Best Okuma Fishing Rod?
Each fishing rod has its own advantages and disadvantages. But in my opinion, the best is the Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Kit. This is exactly the Okuma fishing rod I met for the first time. It has excellent casting characteristics, has a rather soft and comfortable cork handle, and the durable shaft bends very hard, but never breaks.
Do Okuma Rods Have a Lifetime Warranty?
Yes, Okuma provides a standard lifetime warranty. But there are a couple of nuances. If your rod is broken, then you can send it to the Okuma service, paying $ 20 for delivery and return. If the company determines that the breakdown actually occurred due to a factory defect, it will either replace your rod completely or repair your rod. If the examiner determines that the breakdown occurred due to your careless use or something else that is not a manufacturer’s defect, then a support service will contact you and offer a paid repair. If you refuse, then you just get the rod back.
It is important that damage to the rods, rod guides, or rod blanks from your truck tires, ceiling fans, etc. is not a warranty case. Also, nothing will be replaced if the damage is caused by a natural disaster. By the way, if you live in Hawaii, Canada, or Alaska, then you will need to pay $5 more for shipping and return.
Final Words
In this article, I reviewed the 10 best rods from Okuma. Each model has excellent quality, but all differ in material, length, flexibility, etc. Therefore, regardless of your fishing experience and preferences, you can always choose something for yourself.
You can be sure of Okuma’s products because they have been in the fishing market for almost 35 years. For all this time, the company has never had problems with feedback and customers, you will always be helped to deal with your problems. If you liked my article, you can share it anywhere. Thanks for reading us. Have good fishing!
Tags: #okuma rods / #okuma fishing rods / #okuma surf rods / #okuma longitude surf graphite rods / #okuma makaira rods / #best okuma rods for steelhead and salmon fishing / #best okuma surf spining rods forums reviews
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
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Okuma Fishing Rods are worth every penny. They stand up to all types of conditions, from saltwater to freshwater. Plus, they’re super lightweight and easy to transport wherever you go fishing.
The Okuma Battle Cat Catfish Spinning Rod is amazing! It’s lightweight yet sturdy enough to handle any size of fish. With all the features, it’s one of the best rods I’ve ever owned.
I recently bought an Okuma Celilo Graphite Salmon/Steelhead Spinning Rod and it has proven to be a great investment! The quality and craftsmanship are truly second to none. Highly recommend this rod to anyone looking for a reliable, affordable fishing rod.
I wanted to share my thoughts on the Okuma Rockaway SP 8’6″ fishing rod. In my opinion, this rod is super lightweight and built to throw LCs with ease. I’ve used it extensively in the past and it quickly became one of my favorite rods.
One of the best things about the Okuma Rockaway SP is its affordable price point. You can find it on Okuma’s site for only $100, which is a steal for the quality of the rod. Of course, if you’re looking for an even cheaper option, the Okuma Celilo 9’6″ ML could be a great choice. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for throwing LCs, although it may take a little longer to restock.
I was fortunate enough to find the Okuma Celilo on Amazon for less than $50 preowned. While the MSRP is around $55, it’s worth keeping an eye out for deals like this. However, keep in mind that prices can vary and the market can be unpredictable.
Overall, I highly recommend the Okuma Rockaway SP and the Okuma Celilo for those who are looking for great fishing rods that won’t break the bank. They’re both excellent options that will serve you well on your next fishing trip.
I wanted to share my experience with a fishing rod and reel combos. I have two different combos that I use regularly, and they’re pretty similar to what you’re talking about.
The first one is a 6.6 ultralight Okuma rod with a Pflueger President 20 reel. I’ve found that this combo works really well for me, and it’s perfect for catching smaller fish. The second combo is a 6-foot Avid light rod with a Shimano Stradic Ci4+ 1000 reel. I’ve noticed that the Avid rod is a lot lighter and more sensitive than the Okuma rod, which is really nice.
I’m not sure if I would use a Daiwa BG 1500 reel on the Avid rod, as it might throw off the balance of the rod. However, I will say that this combo is my favorite for catching panfish. It’s not the cheapest setup, but for me, it’s been worth the investment.
Overall, I think that having a few different rod and reel combos in your arsenal is really helpful for different types of fishing. It’s important to find the right balance of sensitivity, weight, and size for your needs. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, sometimes it’s worth spending a little more to get a setup that you really love.
As an avid land-based angler, I highly recommend the Okuma Nesika Surf Rods for those looking to specialize in long-distance casting. These rods are built with rugged 24-ton carbon blanks that provide the power needed to land big fish from beaches, piers, jetties, and more, all while remaining lightweight and comfortable for all-day casting.
One of the standout features of the Nesika is Okuma’s UFR-Ultimate Flex Reinforcement tip technology. This feature gives the rod up to 400% more power and lifting strength than other surf rods in its class, making it a great choice for anglers looking to take on bigger fish.
The moderate-fast taper of the Nesika allows the rod to load with energy on the cast, propelling baits forward tremendous distances. Additionally, the two-piece construction of the Nesika features tip-over-butt ferrule connections, giving it a true one-piece feel.
The Nesika is also designed with components that are built to last. The rod features corrosion-resistant stainless steel deep press guide frames with titanium oxide guide inserts, making it easy to cast braided lines with ease. The handle is also made with comfortable EVA construction in a split grip configuration.
Overall, the Okuma Nesika Surf Rods are an excellent choice for land-based anglers looking to specialize in long-distance casting. They offer superior power, strength, and casting distance, all while remaining lightweight and comfortable for all-day use.
As an experienced angler, I understand the importance of having high-quality fishing equipment, and the Okuma Celilo fishing rod is definitely one of the best rods out there. I have been using this rod for decades, and based on my experience, I can vouch for its durable body, perfect balance, excellent reel support, and many other features that make it stand out in the market.
One of the top features of the Okuma Celilo Graphite Ultra Light Trout Rods is its body. Made from graphite, it is not only durable but also very lightweight, which is essential for comfortable fishing. Its well-balanced design is perfect for casting longer distances, and it also offers the necessary strength to exert dragging force during fishing.
Another great feature of the Okuma Celilo fishing rod is its guides, hooks, and hoods. Made of stainless steel or aluminum, they provide a better grip and comfort during fishing, while also enhancing the rod’s durability. The grip of the fishing rod is also an essential feature, and this Okuma Celilo spinning rod has a rubber cork-type grip that offers a slippage-proof element during angling.
However, over time, the rubber cork-type grip can become corroded, and the main stick of the rod can become exposed, which can cause some issues for the angler.
Overall, I highly recommend the Okuma Celilo fishing rod to any angler, regardless of their skill level or age. With its top-notch features, this rod is perfect for catching more fish and providing an enjoyable fishing experience.