A look at the etched sideplate

The heart of the Makaira series revolves around the patented DFD or Dual Force Drag system that was designed by Tiburon Engineering. This unique drag system was engineered around a pull bar drag system principle that virtually eliminates the pressure commonly created by the alternative style push bar drag system, which completely relies on the strength of the reel frame for structural support.

All Makaira reels feature two speed gearing systems

The DFD is a wet drag system utilizing dual Carbonite drag washers and Cal Sheet’s drag grease. To further enhance this ultimate drag system, Tiburon custom-designed a thrust bearing that is designed to absorb side load pressure. This abnormally large bearing allows anglers to fish extremely high drag loads without the increase in handle pressure.

Enhancing the overall feel and performance of this series, Okuma has equipped the Makaira with EZO Japanese ABEC-5 ball bearings that provide excellent freespool for live baiting and casting.

The Makaira series sets itself apart from all other reels by offering Okuma’s proprietary silent anti-reverse system. Working in conjunction with the silent retrieve system is our unique helical-cut gear process.

The Makaira is the only machined aluminum 2-speed trolling reel to feature helical-cut gears which are smoother, quieter, offer more torque and receive less impact blows when compared to the traditional spur-cut or straight-cut gearing used in most 2-speed reels.

The reels are available in traditional gold as well

For a combination of ultimate hardness and corrosion resistance Okuma machines all of its gears, shafts and drag plates from 17-4 marine-grade stainless steel for uncompromised durability. For superior strength and precision tolerances, the Makaira is supported by 6061-T6 grade forged aluminum side plates and extruded 6061-T6 aluminum frame.  All aluminum parts are either anodized gold with a type-II anodizing process or black anodized with a Type-III process in critical corrosion points.

A cutaway look at the center of the spool reveals the main shaft

Conclusion: The Makaira is the first reel from Okuma that we can say truly rivals the offerings from companies including Penn, Shimano and Fin-Nor. The influence from Tiburon and manufacturing capabilities and strength of Okuma blend well together, and we can expect to see a lot more from this new saltwater powerhouse.