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Okuma Airframe AF7/9 Fly Reel

Mike Thrussell 01 January, 2006 12:10:00

Fly reels take one heck of a hammering in saltwater, so it makes sense to go for something that can resist the worst effects of corrosive sea water. The Okuma Airframe fly reel body and spool are made from black lightweight graphite with a stainless steel main shaft meaning these reels are just about as corrosion proof as you can get. With minimal maintenance they will soldier on for years.

The reel is a large arbour type for improved retrieve rate, and is capable of carrying a 9-weight line and 110-yards of 20lb mono. If you use braided line you can dramatically increase the amount of backing the reel can carry. The body of the reel and the spool are drilled, ported is the professional term, for lightness, though it also helps drying when the reel is washed after use.

The oversize disc drag system is housed on the back of the body of the reel and is activated by turning the star shaped wheel. We found the drag very good and well capable of playing fast running fish. The reel will handle everything normally caught on the fly in UK waters.

The spool has an exposed rim to allow the angler to add extra drag pressure by hand if required. The spool is released by a small button lever housed at the centre of the spool. The spool rotates on a ball-bearing for smoothness. You also have the option of changing the reel from right to left hand retrieve. The spool is also counterbalanced.

The reel also has the advantage of having very cheap spare spools allowing a variety of lines to be carried. Even saltwater fly fisherman tend to use two or even three different types of fly lines nowadays and the cost of spools on many reels can be prohibitive, the collective spools costing more than the reels themselves.

The Okuma Airframe Fly reel is an excellent choice for the occasional fly fisherman, or the seasoned angler who wants a reel that can withstand harsh treatment, be submerged when fishing in surf conditions, but still continue catching fish.

Further information from: okumafishing.com

And in the UK contact: Svendsen Sports Tel: 01443 844334

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