Does anybody here use Okuma baitcasters? I kinda like their citrix and was wondering your opinions on them as I have never used an Okuma except when saltwater fishing at the OBX this year and it was just a cheap spinning reel.

Also does anybody else think that the Okuma's look similar to Daiwa's? Maybe same OEM?

Definitely not the same OEM.

Okuma's are a decent quality reel.  I've got several of the 400 size.  I'm not sure of the lo-pro reels, though.  I think for the money I'd rather get a Shimano.

Okuma salmon, sturgeon and saltwater reels are really popular in the Northwest.  Their spinning reels are decent.  The Serrano LP BC looks like a good reel but it's still not proven.  It's hard for a company to displace staple brands and models with a strong following. I fished a friend's VS baitcaster a couple years ago and it was Okay to good.

They sell some quality stuff i know alot of saltwater guys swear by their stuff.

They sell some quality stuff i know alot of saltwater guys swear by their stuff.

Ya, my uncle uses their saltwater stuff exclusively

I use the Cayenne low-pro baitcaster, got it for $80, works like a dream. high quality bearings, rigid frame, I think it stands up there with the big boys, its just the new kid on the block. By the way it's the same as the Serrano just without okuma's special corrosion resistance coating. Hope this helps you, if your thinking about getting one pm me and I can tell you where I got mine.

-Alex

From what I understand, the Cayenne and Serrano both use ABEC-5 bearings out of the box.  I played with one at a fishing show earlier this year and have to admit that I was very impressed with how light and smooth those reels were.  I have read other user's reviews on the Serrano, saying that it was as good as the Daiwa Fuego.  So, I believe that is high praise.  The only question, really is longevity.

here is some info about the reels:

http://www.***.com/Okuma_Cayenne_Casting_Reel/descpage-OCCR.html

http://www.tackletour.com/reviewicast09okumabaitcasters.html

http://www.okumafishing.com/category/46444/Low_Profile

I have a guide friend up in Oswego NY that uses Okuma for everything from salmon to smallies.  Puts 'em throught a beating every year and has never had a problem.