Last updated on February 9th, 2024 at 05:31 pm
Fishing tackle technology continues to advance at an ever-increasing pace and the new Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are just another example that. The folks at Okuma continue to be on the cutting edge of innovation and technological advancement with this new addition to their Inspira spinning reel line for 2024.
QUICK LOOK: 4 Features of Okuma Inspira ISX Reels that Make Them Great for Saltwater.
- A rigid solid aluminum frame and side plates, which are lightweight, strong, and 100% corrosion resistant.
- Cyclonic Flow Rotor, which creates a cyclonic airflow that increases air flow over the rotor and reduces moisture and corrosion from saltwater.
- Multi-disk Carbonite and stainless-steel drag washer system, which delivers smooth and consistent drag pressure and resists corrosion from saltwater.
- 8BB+1RB stainless steel bearings, which provide ultimate smoothness and corrosion resistance.
If you have been fishing as long as I have, you will remember the early days of spinning reels and just how far they’ve come. I have spent many hours, and cast many a mile, winding and grinding away with a Mitchell 300 by Abu Garcia. Caught a ton of fish with those old reels but they are like prehistoric relics of caveman days when compared to modern spinning reels.
Come along and let’s take a closer look at this latest spinning reel offering from Okuma, and see what it has to offer. We’ll also compare the Okuma Inspira ISX with the previous Okuma Inspira models.
And, offer some alternative spinning reel options that would be comparable in function and application. But first, a brief introduction to the Okuma Fishing Tackle Company seems in order.
Okuma Fishing Tackle Corporation
Okuma fishing tackle company was founded in 1986 by Mr. Charles Chang in Taiwan. The company’s mission is to deliver the ultimate fishing experience to everyone, as well as create the best fishing reels and rods for their fellow anglers. They are a global leader in the design and manufacturing of high quality fishing tackle, with products ranging from spinning reels, baitcasting reels, trolling reels, fly reels, rods, combos, and accessories.
They have been innovating and developing new technologies and materials for their products, such as C-40X long carbon fiber framing, Torsion Control Armor, Cyclonic Flow Rotor, Dual Force Drag System, and more. Okuma has also been collaborating with other brands and organizations to promote and support the fishing industry and community, such as Rapala VMC Corporation, Savage Gear, Fishbrain, IGFA, and more.
- Okuma Fishing Tackle Corp
2310 E. Locust Court,
Ontario, CA 91761 - (909) 923-2828
- okumafishingusa.com
- okumafishing.com
The New Okuma Inspira ISX Spinning Reels
Released late August 2023, the 2024 Okuma Inspira ISX Spinning reels are designed to provide optimal stability, smoothness and power for anglers who enjoy spinning fishing. Some of the key features and benefits of these reels are:
They are equipped with groundbreaking Torsion Control Armor (TCA) technology and a double arm body design, which offer an impressive 40% increase in torsion and flex resistance. This ensures perfect internal alignment and reduces stress on the reel components.
A lightweight and rigid aluminum construction, which enhances durability and performance. The Okuma Flite Drive system, which increases gear stability and smoothness by using a larger main gear and a smaller pinion gear.
A multi-disk Carbonite and stainless-steel drag washer system, which delivers smooth and consistent drag pressure across a wide range of settings.
8BB+1RB stainless steel bearings, which provide ultimate smoothness and corrosion resistance. A Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing, which eliminates back play and ensures instant hook sets. Machined aluminum screw in handle design, which provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Lightweight, TPE handle knobs, which offer maximum comfort and control, and have a machined aluminum, braided line ready spool design, which allows for easy spooling and prevents line slippage. They come standard with a heavy-duty, solid aluminum bail wire, which ensures smooth line retrieval and prevents line damage.
The Okuma Inspira ISX also comes with a RESII: Computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System, which reduces vibration and enhances balance. These are just some of the key features and benefits of the Okuma Inspira ISX Spinning reels.
If you are interested in learning more about these reels, you can visit the official Okuma website: okumafishingusa.com. You can also find some reviews and ratings from other customers at tackledirect.com.
Saltwater and Corrosion Resistant
If you fish saltwater, like I do, you will be glad to know that yes, the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are saltwater resistant.
These reels have several features that make them suitable for inshore saltwater fishing applications, such as:
- A rigid solid aluminum frame and side plates, which are lightweight, strong, and 100% corrosion resistant.
- Cyclonic Flow Rotor, which creates a cyclonic airflow that increases air flow over the rotor and reduces moisture and corrosion from saltwater.
- Multi-disk Carbonite and stainless-steel drag washer system, which delivers smooth and consistent drag pressure and resists corrosion from saltwater.
- 8BB+1RB stainless steel bearings, which provide ultimate smoothness and corrosion resistance.
These are some of the features that make the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels saltwater resistant. However, it is still recommended to rinse the reels with fresh water and wipe them dry after each use to prevent any possible damage from saltwater.
Other Okuma Inspira Models
Yes, there are other models available in the Okuma Inspira series. There are two more models in the Inspira series: the Inspira Spinning – White and the Inspira Spinning – Blue. These models have similar features and specifications as the Inspira Spinning ISX, but they differ in color and material.
The Inspira Spinning – White has a white body and sideplates, while the Inspira Spinning – Blue has a carbon fiber body and sideplates. The Inspira Spinning – Carbon is also slightly more expensive than the other two models. You can compare the prices and features of these models on the website or at tackledirect.com, where you can also find customer reviews and ratings.
Differences between the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reel and the other Okuma Inspira spinning reel models.
- The Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reel is a new model for 2024 that will be released in August 2023. It features a metal Torsion Control Armor (TCA) technology that provides up to 5 times greater torsion and flex resistance with a double arm body design. It also has a Flite Drive system that increases gear stability and smoothness.
- The other Okuma Inspira spinning reel models are the Inspira Spinning – Blue and the Inspira Spinning – White, which are available in 20, 30, and 40 sizes. They feature a lightweight C-40X carbon frame and sideplates, which are also very rigid and reduce torque. They also have a Cyclonic Flow Rotor design that creates a cyclonic airflow that increases airflow through the ported rotor and reduces corrosion possibilities.
The main differences between the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reel and the other Okuma Inspira spinning reel models are:
| FEATURE | OKUMA INSPIRA ISX | OKUMA INSPIRA BLUE&WHITE |
|---|---|---|
| CarbonFlite Drive System | Yes | No |
| Gear Ratio | 6.0:1 or 6.2:1 | 5.0:1 or 4.5:1 |
| Models | 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 | 20, 30, 40 |
| Price | $99.99 – $104.99 | $93.99 – $104.99 |
Cleaning and Care of the Okuma Inspira ISX
The best way to clean your Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reel after saltwater fishing is to follow these steps:
- After each use, rinse the reel with fresh water to remove any salt or dirt. You can use a hose or a spray bottle, but make sure to spray the reel from the top and not from the underside, as this can push salt and water into the reel.
- Wipe the reel with a soft cloth to dry it thoroughly. You can also use a hair dryer on low heat to speed up the drying process⁷.
- Apply a few drops of oil to the bearings, handle knob, bail arm, and line roller. You can use any reel oil or lubricant that is designed for fishing reels.
- Store the reel in a cool and dry place, preferably in a protective case or bag. Avoid exposing the reel to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
These are the steps that will help you clean and maintain your Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reel after saltwater fishing. By following these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your reel for many years.
Fishing with the Okuma Inspira ISX
The Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are versatile and suitable for various fishing styles and environments, from freshwater to saltwater. However, some of the target species of fish that these reels are best suited for are:
Bass: The Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are ideal for bass fishing, as they offer smoothness, durability, and power. The Flite Drive system enhances gear stability and smoothness, while the Carbonite drag system delivers consistent drag pressure.
The 8+1 stainless steel bearings provide ultimate smoothness and corrosion resistance. The lightweight and rigid aluminum construction enhances durability and performance. The Inspira ISX spinning reels can handle various types of bass fishing techniques, such as finesse, drop shot, topwater, crankbait, spinnerbait, and more.
Trout: The Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are also ideal for trout fishing, as they offer balance, performance, and sensitivity. The Torsion Control Armor reduces stress on the reel components and ensures perfect internal alignment. The Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing eliminates back play and ensures instant hook sets.
The Cyclonic Flow Rotor increases airflow over the rotor and reduces corrosion from saltwater. The lightweight and comfortable EVA handle knobs offer maximum comfort and control. The Inspira ISX spinning reels can handle various types of trout fishing techniques, such as fly fishing, nymphing, drifting, trolling, jigging, and more.
Catfish: The Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are also suitable for catfish fishing, as they offer strength, reliability, and capacity. The machined aluminum spool is braided line ready and prevents line slippage. The heavy-duty solid aluminum bail wire ensures smooth line retrieval and prevents line damage.
The RESII: Computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System reduces vibration and enhances balance. The Inspira ISX spinning reels can handle various types of catfish fishing techniques, such as bottom fishing, drift fishing, float fishing, jug fishing, noodling, and more.
These are just some of the target species of fish that the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are best suited for. Of course, you can also use these reels for other species of fish that match your preferences and conditions.
Pros and Cons of the Okuma Inspira ISX
Some of the pros and cons of the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are:
| Pros of the Okuma Inspira ISX |
|---|
| Lightweight and durable, thanks to the C-40X carbon fiber frame and side plates. |
| A smooth and consistent drag system, with up to 13 lbs of drag pressure, made of Carbonite and stainless-steel washers. |
| Flite Drive system enhances gear stability and smoothness, using a larger main gear and a smaller pinion gear. |
| 8BB+1RB stainless steel bearings that provide ultimate smoothness and corrosion resistance. |
| Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing that eliminates back play and ensures instant hook sets. |
| Cyclonic Flow Rotor that increases airflow over the rotor and reduces corrosion from saltwater. |
| A machined aluminum handle, spool, and bail wire that offer comfort, control, and line protection. |
| RESII: Computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System that reduces vibration and enhances balance |
| Cons of the Okuma Inspira ISX |
|---|
| Not as high-quality as some other Okuma reels, such as the Helios SX or the Ceymar CXT |
| Not fully sealed, so they may still require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent saltwater damage. |
Alternatives to the Okuma Inspira ISX
Some comparable alternatives to the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels are:
The Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel, which is a redesigned model that features an asymmetrical X-Craftic body design, a Zenon inspired body design, an 8+1 HPCR bearing system, and a friction-free main shaft design.
This reel is designed to provide balance, performance, and durability for freshwater and inshore saltwater fishing applications. It has a price range of $169.95.
The Daiwa Exceler Spinning Reel, which is a blend of appealing aesthetics, smooth operation, and steadfast drag capabilities.
It features a Zaion V body design, an Air Rotor system, a Digigear II gear system, and a Magsealed main shaft bearing.
This reel is suitable for various fishing styles and environments, from freshwater to saltwater. It has a price range of $99.99.
The Shimano Stradic FL Spinning Reel, which is a new model that incorporates the latest technologies from Shimano.
It features a Hagane body design, an X-Ship gear system, a Long Stroke Spool system, and a Cross Carbon Drag system.
This reel is ideal for anglers who seek smoothness, durability, and power for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It has a price range of $199.99 to $229.99.
These are some of the alternatives to the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels that you may want to consider.
Okuma Inspira ISX Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Okuma Inspira ISX spinning reels.
What is the Torsion Control Armor (TCA) technology and how does it work?
The TCA technology is a groundbreaking feature that provides up to 5 times greater torsion and flex resistance with a double arm body design. This ensures perfect internal alignment and reduces stress on the reel components. The TCA technology is made of rigid aluminum, which enhances durability and performance.
What is the Flite Drive system and how does it improve the gear stability and smoothness?
The Flite Drive system is a new design that increases gear stability and smoothness by using a larger main gear and a smaller pinion gear. This reduces friction and wear, and optimizes the gear meshing. The Flite Drive system also features an oversized HDGII main gear with machine cut brass pinion gear, which provides better strength and a higher gear ratio.
How do I maintain and clean my Inspira ISX Spinning reel?
To maintain and clean your Inspira ISX Spinning reel, you should follow these steps:
1. After each use, rinse the reel with fresh water to remove any salt or dirt.
2. Wipe the reel with a soft cloth to dry it thoroughly.
3. Apply a few drops of oil to the bearings, handle knob, bail arm, and line roller.
4. Store the reel in a cool and dry place, preferably in a protective case or bag.
For more detailed instructions, you can watch these videos or refer to the manual.
What is the warranty policy for the Inspira ISX Spinning reels?
The Inspira ISX Spinning reels are backed by a 1-year warranty from Okuma Fishing Tackle Corp. The warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship under normal use. The warranty does not cover any damage caused by misuse, abuse, negligence, or unauthorized modifications. To claim the warranty, you need to provide proof of purchase and contact Okuma customer service.
Okuma: Quality, Reliability and Value
The new Okuma Inspira ISX is just the latest in a long line of high quality, reliable and technologically advanced reels from Okuma. It is saltwater and corrosion resistant making it a great choice for inshore saltwater, light surf, or freshwater fishing applications.
If you are looking for a new spinning reel that is not only highly advanced, but also easier on your wallet, it’s hard to beat the Okuma Inspira ISX, or any of the other great reels from Okuma.
Or, if you can take a look at the alternatives we covered. The Abu Garcia Revo SX, the Diawa Exceler, or the Shimano Stradic FL are all great reels and will serve you well.
As always, stay safe, enjoy the journey and please try to leave it cleaner than you found it. If you have any comments, questions, ideas or suggestions please leave them in the comment section below and I’ll get back to you asap.
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A life long surf fisherman with 50+ years of experience, I am also an avid hunter and outdoorsman. I will be sharing my passion for the outdoors with you so be prepared for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and more. Along with gear reviews and the latest trends and innovations in the outdoor industry.
