Shimano Torium

Shimano has been a well-known Fishing equipment manufacturer that produce good quality products since 1970s. In 2003, Shimano's development team decided to come out a reel that is similar to their Trinidad series that mainly target anglers that don't wanna spend too much on fishing gears and it was a successful approach. The answer to affordable and reliable is the 2003 Shimano Torium,  a new High Speed multiplier reel that is highly affordable and yet perform pretty well that can put some much more expensive competitor's reel to shame.  Although this reel is manufactured and assembled in Malaysia, the quality is not as bad as you can imagine. It cast well, have good drag power, excellent fast line retrieve and have acceptable cranking power. Seriously this Shimano Torium is designed for years of comfort and ease of use. However, the only complaint i had for this reel is the poor galvanized coating on the spool that will get corrode easily and also the Silver paintwork on the exterior of the reel is not really that saltwater proof. If you are the "Hardworking" type of anglers who does a good reel clean-up after every fishing trip, this Torium will definitely be your best fishing partner. Shimano Torium comes in size 14, 16, 20, 30 and 50. 

Okuma Cortez

In year March 2011, Okuma introduces another new member to its offshore multiplier range, the Okuma Cortez CZ-10CS and CZ-12CS. With the help from Tiburon Engineering team since 2006, Okuma finally master the correct recipe to make a smooth saltwater reel with good powerful drag. The new Cortez is an innovative reel, made with good materials, offering very good performance at a value conscious price. The very first time when i got this reel, i was amazed by its performance, handling and design. The reel features a Multi-disc Carbonite drag system which is common on Tiburon reels, for very good stopping power. With 6.2:1 ratio, cranking fast is not a problem and there is good cranking power despite of its high ratio gear. Another welcome features on this Cortez is having a Magnetic Cast Control system that will make sure the spinning of the spool is being well-controlled. Judging from the outlook and specification of this Okuma Cortez,  it will definitely give some well-known Japanese brand a good beating and the good news for we fishing folks is that this reel seats comfortably in the price range of a Daiwa Saltist and Shimano Torium. The days of Poor drag and Poor mechanism of Okuma reels is a History that we should forgive and forget. The new Era of Okuma and with the engineering from Tiburon, a respectable USA Fishing brand for offshore gear, Okuma is set to make a strong comeback with its exciting new range of products catered for all types of fishing and demands.

Cortez Features-


Corrosion resistant graphite frame and sideplates
Machined aluminum, red anodized spool
Multi-disc Carbonite drag system
Forged aluminum, red anodized star
Anodized aluminum swept handle reduces wobble while cranking
4BB+1RB stainless steel bearings
External magnetic cast control system
Ergo grip handle knob
Dual anti-reverse system (mechanical & roller bearing)
XL Gearing: Drop down gear box with 6.2:1 gear ratio
Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing
MSS: Mechanical Stabilizing System for increased durability
Recessed thumb bar for comfort
Self lubricating gear system