Retrieve: Back in 2014, when I reviewed the company's Citrix low profile baitcaster, I remarked about that reels connected feel and how it reminded me of one of my first baitcasting reels, a Shimano B-Mag 1001. I expected that same feel from the Cerros, but his reel is not as raw as that old Citrix. Rather, the Citrix feels a lot like other reels I've fished at this price point which is probably more good than bad.

The Cerros comes standard with an 85 millimeter handle

Power: The Cerros comes with a standard length, 85 millimeter handle attached to a brass main gear and pinion. Power is pretty much on par with what one might expect meaning it's a good general purpose type reel, but not one I'd rely upon for deep diving cranks. But this reel will handle just about everything else.

The guts are made of brass

Drag: Rated at up to 5 kilograms (or 11 pounds), the Cerros comes with a standard drag consisting of one fibrous drag washer similar to the carbon composite washers used by the majority of reel manufacturers today. This material is preferred today because it delivers smooth, consistent, and powerful performance which is exactly what I experienced with the Cerros's drag.

The single drag washer is of the popular and reliable carbon matrix material

Design & Ergonomics: As mentioned earlier, the Cerros is a nice, compact little reel that's easy to palm. If there's a downside to this reel ergonomically, it's that it weighs eight (8) ounces compared to many of its competitors that are closer to seven (7). One ounce may not seem like a big deal, but if you're switching back and forth between combos, it is easily discerned and something to consider when making a decision between several choices.

The levelwind worm gear is supported by plastic bushings

Price & Applications: As mentioned earlier, the Cerros is a good option for general purpose duties, but if you're one to match retrieve ratios to your techniques, you will find minimal choices with the Cerros. There are two options in right hand (6.6:1 & 7.3:1) but only one option in left hand retrieve (6.6:1). With other manufacturers offering up to three retrieve ratios in both left and right hand at this price point, the Cerros is limited.

Okuma's Cerros is in the hundred dollar casting reel category, but despite it's low price, it certainly inspired me to share time with it on the water

Conclusion: It is true I'm an enthusiast at heart, but my enthusiasm is not necessarily defined by the price point of a product. There can be any number of reasons a product gets me excited and inspires me to spend time with it out on the water. For the Cerros, it was something about its compact frame and stealthy appearance. Sure, there's room for refinement, but it's tough to be too demanding with a product in this price point. The competition has gotten a lot better at this price point but if you're looking for a no-frills reel with reliable performance and a stealthy motif, Cerros is certainly worth consideration.

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