Okuma Stratus is on sale from $80 down to 39.99.  I have 2 Okuma's, and love them for the less costly gear I own.  This looked like a pretty nice deal here, so wanted to let everyone know.

Has anyone tried the Okuma Stratus spinning or baitcast reels yet?  What do you think, is it a buy, or don't waste the $40?

My dad and sis have a few and I steal them from time to time. I don't mind them, but I wouldn't go out and buy one. They have some reliability issues and I don't see them lasting more than 2 seasons of abuse. I would rather spend a little more money on a reel that I know will last forever.

I've used the Stratus GTs but not the XTS versions. The GTs were ok little spinning reels but nothing to get excited about.

i have a Stratus ST-30 that i bought about 3 years ago. its rough on the outside but its still great on the inside. it might be the best reel you can get for under 100. i certainly like mine. i have dropped it on concrete and the bail got bent out of shape but i bent it back and it works great now. it can take a good bit of abuse.

i dont know about the model you are referring to, but mine has 8 stainles bearings, and it is very smooth. its got a comfy handle too . it also came w/ a spare spool.

so if you want a decent reel for a good price, ****** it up!