Thanks Desert Dog. A really informative review. I appreciate it. I just purchased a Makira 15T SEA model. Plan on using it primarily offshore Louisiana in the Gulf.
DD you've saved my ass once again! A local tackle shop of mine is selling a Shimano Tiagra 80 brand new for 40% off (MSRP $950). I was tempted to buy it but after watching this video I'll be sticking with Okuma, already have a few of there Cavallas and am mostly happy with them. Very pleased you are an Okuma fan as well. Will be sending you an Okuma fishing question for the next month's camp mail video.
I'm not a fan of many of Okuma's products (some are cheaply made; borerline disposable). But the Makaira was their successful attempt at a top-tier reel, using the engineers from Tiburon in the design and manufacture. The Makaira was a home run; it's the only Okuma reel I would ever buy.
I agree....101% on MAKAIRA is the ULTIMATE REEL for the Price....couple this with Excellent Okuma Customer Service like Shimano Customer Service on STEROIDS!. Okuma is Now the 3rd Largest Tackle Maker in the World just next to Shimano & Daiwa...
Hey bud, thanks for the review. I'm considering this reel but wasn't sure if the line capacity is substantial for 75-100# class tuna. I always worry about getting spooled. What are your thoughts regarding that? Thanks.
Depends on species. It will easily handle 100# tuna, striped marlin on bait, any size sail, big dorado on the slow troll, pargo/snapper, Alaskan Halibut, wahoo, and yellowtail/amberjack down in the rocks. Anything you would normally catch with a 40# line-class reel, which is a very versatile line class.
Great review. What do you think of the Avet G2 series MXL MC ? Okuma has much better warranty, but curious to know your experience, if any, with AVET. Also, Okuma Metaloid single speed looks like a great reel 5S or 12S for smaller fish, casting, and jigging.
The G2 isn't really the comparison to me, it would be the Raptor series. These reels are still kinda different though, they're much more a smaller version of the 30,50,80 and such where Avet has big game reels in the EX series but the smaller reels are different in build. I love my smaller Makaira's for trolling and flylining for tuna but I also fish my Avet JX Raptor and MX Raptor a ton if I'm fishing iron, throwing lighter baits, or am jigging. They're really different animals to me. Both are excellent for the right purpose.
I am not sure how apples to apples that comparison is. To me the Makaira 10ii would be similar if Avet made an EX10/2 like the 30/2 or 50/2. The JX isn't made as a big game reel to me like the EX series or the Makaira's to me. I love my smaller Makaira's and am 100% on board with your review they are badass reels. However, if I'm throwing iron, vertical jigging, flylining sardines for yellowtail, Dorado, etc. then I prefer the Avet reels particularly the MXL Raptor. Just a thought on the comparison aspect.
Calstar 700MH for fly-lining bait off a party boat. Calstar 700 H for an all-around panga rod (bait/slow troll/jig). Okuma Nomad Travel rod for international travel.
I think so. The BV400 2 speed that got to use at Rancho Leonero had a horrible drag curve. Basically, from the first notch all the up to strike, you could not tell the difference in drag pressure. With the Maks, the drag curve is significantly better and noticeably gradual. As for longevity, who knows, the BV2 reels are still relatively new to the market.
Years ago when I Bought these MAK 10's, they were $300, Compared to a Talica 12 which came out at $600. Things have changed since then, and prices went up due to the popularity of these reels.