Okuma Tesoro Star Drag Reels

The Tesoro is a 2018 model reel, first shown at ICAST July 2017. The new star drag reels got a lot of attention from anglers, with the improvement in casting of leverdrags it seems there’s a preponderance of lever’s and less star drag reel options for serious anglers who are looking for a high quality star.  There really are applications where both types of reel offer advantages. 20 years ago, if you wanted a good casting reel it pretty much had to be a star drag. These days, in no small part thanks to Cal Sheets, Larry Cofe, and of course Avet, lever drag reels improved. But, still you can do some things with a star drag reel you just can’t duplicate on a leverdrag.  So, there’s a market among anglers for the benefits a good star drag can offer.  As of this date (11/17) Daiwa’s Saltiga has been the class act in this regard. Along comes the Tesoro, and I have to say it’s similarly refined, but a very different reel.  The metal-work is very good, as expected, but you’ll also note that these are trimmer than what we’re used to handling, excess weight has been taken off areas of the reel where it’s not needed. Freespool is simply excellent, and the drag is very capable, you can button ’em down and not effect casting performance.  Could very well become the wahoo reels of choice for a lot of guys. Compact, light, modern technology and application of best practices in design…and a 3 year warranty.

The Tesoro reels make use of (buzzword) alumilite frame construction which provides more precise tolerances for precise gear alignment, maximum castability, and durability. The mechanical stabilizing system keeps the reels in precise alignment for strong, stable and smooth long term performance. Okuma also has a patent pending enhancement which stabilizes the spool at three key points to maintain optimum performance and minimize spool shaft flex when under pressure.

• High Speed 6.2:1 gear ratio
• 6061-T6 machined aluminum frame, sideplate and spool
• 17-4 grade stainless steel helical cut gearing
• Multi-disc Carbonite drag system with Cal’s drag grease
• CRC: Corrosion-Resistant Coating Process
• Swept aluminum star for increased ergonomics
• Anodized aluminum swept handle reduces wobble while cranking
• 4BB 1RB corrosion resistant bearings, spool bearing with TSI oil
• Ergo grip handle knob with anodized aluminum handle arm
• Dual anti-reverse (mechanical and roller bearing)
• XL Gearing: Drop down gear box
• Quick-Set ant-reverse bearing allows for zero back play in handle
• MSS: Mechanical Stabilizing System for increased durability
• Self-lubricating gear system, all models