BigBendFishing.Net

I'm old school with metal Penns but some of the new bells and whistles sound pretty good. I'm trying to stay near $100. I'd appreciate any opinions on Okuma spinning reels -particularly the Epixor, Metaloid, or the Inspira. Also, anybody using the new Stradic yet? It sounds like a real step up from the 02 model, but I did find the 02 for $89. What about the Penn Prion? Diawa Capricorn?

I just purchased an Okuma Avenger AV30. I'm not a spinning reel person. I've been using baitcast reels all my life. But I'm impressed with the reel. It is very smooth and very well balanced. No wobble when reeling. I would reccommend this reel to anyone.

Okumas are working well for me.

I have been generally unhappy with my old model Stradics. I have a couple of new Daiwa Capricorns on order, they feel good in the store. I hope they will hold up.

I on the other hand LOVE my Stradics. Absolutely without a doubt, the best spinning reels I have ever owned.

i have an okuma epixor EF-30 and EB-30, both great reels! i've only heard good things about them.

I always feel like a "red headed stepchild" when I complain about my Stradics.

Well, I have a Stradic 4000H on the way. I will let you know how it works out. Got a good deal on it, long story but will have to tell you about it some day.

Capt. Ron, no majors problems with my Stradics. I take as good care of them as I know how and I am generally pretty easy on gear of all kinds. After a year or two they just aren't as smooth as they were and the bails are a little sticky.

I admit to being picky to the point of obsessiveness with my "stuff".

I much appreciate the advice and, I must say, confirmation of my dilemma. Everything posted here is consistent with my search so far. Capt Ron’s evidence is pretty convincing. Tom’s too. My problem is that I may be as picky as Ken say’s he is. Ken, the Capricorn interested me. I am concerned that it is listed on sites as a freshwater reel. Any thoughts on that?

The Stradic and Capricorn are both what I would consider "freshwater" reels. I don't think there is a real distinction between freshwater and saltwater in this size reel.

The Daiwas should be here tommorow, I'll let ya'll know what I think.

The most honest comment I have heard about Okuma reels is, " that they are well made and functional, but don,t expect to pass them on to your grandchildren".

Well, nothing lasts for ever.

I tend to buy Shimano spinning reels and Abu multipliers.
But, I do have a couple of Shimano TDL 20,s.

I've had the Prodigy(same as capricorn) for a few months now and its a very good reel so far. Have not tried any others though.

Ken - do you want to get rid of those horrible old Stradics? I know a guy who would take them off your hands and give you enough money for some pizza.

Love my Stradics, but I want to look at those Okumas.

Thought about getting an Okuma as my only grouper reel, but went with the Penn 113H instead.

Had to give up on Penn spinners - they just pizzed me off!