Okuma Cortez Review | The Budget Jigging Reel You’ve Been Looking For?
Okuma Cortez Review
Pros:
- High-quality construction that is built to last
- Smooth and precise operation, even under heavy loads
- Exceptional drag system that delivers consistent and reliable performance
- High line capacity and fast gear ratio for efficient retrieves
- Lightweight and easy to handle, even for extended periods
- Great value for the price, making it accessible to a wide range of anglers
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the drag system can be a bit noisy when under heavy loads, which may be a concern for some anglers
- The reel may not be suitable for all fishing situations, as it is designed specifically for jigging applications
- Some users have reported that the drag system can be a bit noisy when under heavy loads, which may be a concern for some anglers
| Model | Gear ratio | Bearings | Weight (g/lb) | Line retrieve (cm/in) | Max drag force (kg/lb) | Monofilament line capacity (mm/yd) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CZ-5CSa | 6.2:1 | 4BB+1RB | 396 / 0.87 | 96.5 / 38.0 | 7 / 15.4 | 0.35/370, 0.40/275, 0.45/200 |
| CZ-10CSa | 6.2:1 | 4BB+1RB | 499 / 1.10 | 109.2 / 43.0 | 8 / 17.6 | 0.40/360, 0.45/270, 0.50/220 |
| CZ-12CSa | 6.2:1 | 4BB+1RB | 522 / 1.15 | 109.2 / 43.0 | 8 / 17.6 | 0.45/410, 0.50/340, 0.55/280 |
In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Okuma Cortez, examining its features, performance, and overall value for the price. Whether you’re a beginner angler looking for your first jigging reel, or an experienced angler seeking an upgrade, this review will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and see what the Okuma Cortez Star Drag Reel has to offer as a Jigging Reel.
Table of Contents
What's in the Box?
Inside the box, you will find your reel, completely assembled and ready to go. You will also find a small bag with the parts for a brace if you choose to use one and a small bottle of machine oil.
You will also find the owner’s manual, warranty information and a list of part numbers in case you ever need to replace anything.
Features
The Okuma Cortez offers some surprising features for it’s price point.
Magnetic Control System
Okuma’s Magnetic Control System is like a smart brake for your fishing reel. When you cast, the reel’s spool spins really fast and can sometimes spin too much, causing a mess of the line, known as a backlash.
This system uses magnets to control that spin. The cool part is that it’s completely sealed and waterproof, and you can adjust how strong you want the braking force to be. This means you can make fine-tuned adjustments to help your casting be more accurate and go farther.
Mechanical Stabilizing System
This system is specially designed to cope with the pressure from using braided fishing lines, which are tougher on reels. It adds support at three key points on the spool shaft to prevent bending when it’s under a lot of pressure – like when you’ve hooked a big one!
In simple terms, it makes your reel tougher, stronger, and smoother. So, you’ll have a better chance against more formidable fish and your reel will run more smoothly than those from other brands.
Ergo Knob Handle
While it may not have the largest Handle arm among jigging reels, the handle knob is unquestionably comfortable and fits well in the hand.
Controls
On this side of the reel, you will see the spool release lever, the star drag and the spool tension knob.
The star drag makes it easy to adjust your drag on the fly and can apply up to 18lbs of drag. If you need more than this, it is easy to change out the washers for something stronger, like the Penn Carbontex washers.
Build Quality
Okuma’s Cortez Jigging Reel is like a great deal on a tough, reliable car. Despite its low cost, It’s made with strong, corrosion-resistant materials – graphite for the body and rotor, which makes it light and easy to handle, and aluminum for the spool and handle, which gives it some extra toughness.
The reel also runs really smoothly, even when you’re pulling up a heavy fish, it operates consistently without a hitch. This smoothness is super important when you’re jigging (a type of fishing where you move the lure up and down in the water), because it can make the difference between catching a fish or not.
In summary, the Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel gives you a lot of bang for your buck. It’s durable, works smoothly, and suits anyone, whether you’re just starting to fish or you’ve been doing it for years. It’s a good, reliable tool that won’t let you down.
Performance
The performance of the Cortez Jigging Reel is one of its strongest selling points. This reel is designed specifically for jigging applications, and it excels in this area.
One of the key factors that contribute to the reel’s performance is its drag system. The Cortez Jigging Reel uses Okuma’s patented DFD (Dual Force Drag) system, which provides exceptional stopping power and precision. This means that anglers can easily and quickly set the drag to their desired level, and have confidence that the reel will deliver consistent and reliable performance.
The drag system also allows for smooth and controlled retrieves, even when targeting large and powerful fish species. The reel’s high line capacity (I got 570 yds of 30lb Sufix 832 on mine) also means that anglers can confidently target bigger fish without worrying about running out of line.
In addition to its drag system, the Cortez Jigging Reel also has a high gear ratio of 6.2:1. This means that anglers can retrieve their line quickly and efficiently, which is particularly important when jigging. The fast retrieval rate also helps reduce the amount of time that fish have to react and potentially escape.
Overall, the performance of the Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel is excellent. It is designed to meet the demands of jigging applications, and it delivers smooth, consistent, and powerful performance that anglers can rely on. Whether you are targeting small or large fish species, the Cortez Jigging Reel is up to the task.
Value
The Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel offers exceptional value for anglers due to its high-quality construction, ensuring durability and longevity. Its superior drag system provides consistent, reliable performance while handling various fish sizes.
The reel’s high line capacity, fast gear ratio, and lightweight design make for efficient retrieves and comfortable use during long fishing sessions. All these features, combined with its competitive pricing, make the Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel an excellent choice for anglers seeking top performance without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel is an excellent choice for anglers who are looking for a high-quality reel for jigging applications. This reel offers exceptional build quality, smooth and precise operation, and a reliable drag system that delivers consistent and efficient performance. Additionally, the reel is lightweight, easy to handle, and provides excellent value for the price, making it accessible to a wide range of anglers.
While there are some minor drawbacks to the reel, such as the size of the handle and its limited suitability for certain fishing situations, these are relatively minor concerns when compared to the overall performance and value that the Cortez Jigging Reel provides.
Overall, if you are in the market for a dependable and high-performing jigging reel that won’t break the bank, the Okuma Cortez Jigging Reel is definitely worth considering. With its impressive features, reliable performance, and excellent value, this reel is sure to meet the needs of both beginner and experienced anglers alike.
For more options, see our list of the Best Slow Pitch Jigging Reels.
Source: Okuma
Okuma Cortez
In this review, we'll take an in-depth look at the Okuma Cortez, examining its features, performance, and overall value for the price. Whether you're a beginner angler looking for your first jigging reel, or an experienced angler seeking an upgrade, this review will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. So, read on below for our Okuma Cortez review.
Product Brand: Okuma
8.6
Pros
- High-quality construction that is built to last
- Smooth and precise operation, even under heavy loads
- Exceptional drag system that delivers consistent and reliable performance
- High line capacity and fast gear ratio for efficient retrieves
- Lightweight and easy to handle, even for extended periods
- Great value for the price, making it accessible to a wide range of anglers
Cons
- Some anglers may find the handle to be a bit small
- The reel may not be suitable for all fishing situations
- Some users have reported that the drag system can be a bit noisy