Okuma Azores Saltwater Spinning Reel

Build quality appears excellent but have not yet used the reel. Was purchased at a discounted price so I would say exceptional value, but again that opinion is expresses with no usage history.

I ordered the 55 and the 80. Used but in excellent condition. Basically floor models. The 55 I'll use as heavy flats and the 80 as a jigging reel for open water. I've used Okuma products for year's and like the product. I've always wanted to try the Azores. I haven't as of yet but for the quality and the drag system I'm excited. The 40+ pounds of drag and the 29 pounds of drag on the 55 will be put to the test. I'll post again soon. For the money I paid for the excellent quality used I doubt I can ever beat that price. Shimano for the price can't touch them. I do however find the reels pretty heavy. No worries.

I usually fish Shimano and I wasn't sure about these reels. I picked up two 65s and was very surprised to see how well they work. Great quality, 44 #s of smooth drag, big spools and good ratio. It is considerably bigger and heavier than my Saragosa 6000 but has almost double the dragand I can buy three for the price of the Saragosa. I will be buying more Okuma in the future.

Took this reel to Antigua along with a 3 piece travel rod. I was very pleased with how this reel handles. Very smooth on the retrieve. The reel is well built. I would definitely recommend this reel as a part of your travel setup. Great bang for your buck.

I had to get used to the thickness and the material of the handle. Once that happened, I don't have any complaints. In my opinion the reel works a lot better with braided line. I use it primarily in the surf. No complaints here.