Okuma sirata

[BowSlayer101]

Hey guys, anyone use one of the float reels before? I was offered one for $180 "like new condition", also was wondering if the drag can be switched off? Thanks for any input.

[GBW]

I've had the Aventa and RawII (2)and both were good for the price. I got the RawII for $189 new so what's the diff with the sirata other than a drag system? Your hand and rod are the drag so why pay more IMO when you can get NEW for the same.

After a quick search, it's just adding drag to the spool of the lower line Aventa.

[GBW]

If I ever get another float reel I'll be checking the Streamside line.. Streamside Vortex Float Reel as I had a Streamside rod and for the price it was great!

https://fishingworld.ca/products/8866-emery-vortex-float-reel-sv400-

[BowSlayer101]

Thanks for the input, i have a streamside but the startup is trash and handle positions aren't the greatest. Basically just want a reel with ok startup, I know the classic drifter is great but its 235 at least before taxes, where as I can get this one for 180 cash. Also seem a raw 2 for 175 but really dont like the looks of it lol.

Edited December 14, 2015 by BowSlayer101

[MJL]

Aside from the Angling Specialties Anti-reverse float reel, the drags on every other centerpin reel are just glorified adjustable clickers. The reels with drags operate just like any other centerpin out there. You have free-spool and with the flick of a switch, you have drag-mode (which usually is adjustable). Not really any different than a reel without a drag - ie. Freespool mode and clicker mode.

[GBW]

Also seem a raw 2 for 175 but really dont like the looks of it lol.

I actually had the looks grow on me after holding it in my hand (raw11) as I didn't care what the reel looked like as long as it did what I needed/wanted it to do. I joked it was my pumpkin.. If you care about function vs looks then go function. I don't like my Stradic FJ's looks but it's a damn nice reel... food for thought is all...

[BowSlayer101]

Agreed, looks aren't the most important thing but its nice to have a reel that is pleasing to the eye. Like i said, my biggest worry is startup, since i river fish in the winter quite a bit and the flow is not crazy, what i dont like about the sirata is the handle positions if i fight a fish without the drag, and of course startup!

[GBW]

The RawII was a great reel for the price. the start up on the one I had was fluid, not a glitch. check the used section too as I'm sure there is a few very good reels out there in your $ range or others thinking of selling what they have may PM you with what they have. Good luck either way!

[BowSlayer101]

Thanks, ya i posted a thread on the buy and sell page, i was offered a used classic drifter but still not aure, want to consider all ootions before purchasing.

[GBW]

No harm no foul for asking at all. Good luck with what ever you do. I kind of regret selling my Streamside rod and RwaII reel but I know the new owner will use it more than me rather then it collect dust. Be selective as you don't sound to be on a rush. I'm sure a hell or a deal will land in your lap from someone here should you be able to wait a bit... Remember, Christmas is almost here so some might sell off top gear at a great price due to gifts. Don't rush and find what you like the looks and feel off at your local retailers.

[BowSlayer101]

For sure, will wait a bit and see, hopefully aomething comes up.

[porkpie]

Nothing wrong with an okuma. I haven't tried many, but my son asked for a raw 2 a couple years ago because he liked the looks. Ended up he preferred fishing with one of my drifters, but the raw performed well. I have a pair of float reels with drags. I really like them, as sometimes it's a convenience when having to hustle down a steep bank to land a fish, or to get past some trees etc. or at the end of a fight while unhooking. I've never tried the okuma dragged reels, but I'm sure it would perform ok for the price.

[BowSlayer101]

Thanks for the input! Does anybody know anything about the blackbird reel? What are your thoughts on it?