Okuma Convector Series Trolling Reels

The Okuma Convector Series has become a popular pick for anglers who want strong, hassle-free trolling reels for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. I’ve found these reels cover a huge range of needs, whether I’m chasing salmon in big water or working slow passes for walleye on lakes.

If you’re looking at making a new addition to your trolling setup, having a clear sense of what these reels can do is really important. Here, I’ll share my full experience and the key info you’ll want before deciding if they’re right for you.

A Quick Look at the Okuma Convector Series

The Okuma Convector Series reels are designed for serious trolling. They offer different versions to match how and what you fish, like line counter models, high-speed versions, and even compact, low-profile reels. The lineup is broad enough that I can match the perfect reel to my home waters, whether I’m focusing on Lake Michigan or small inland lakes.

Okuma recently updated the series with the “B” line, improving durability and user feel, something I noticed right away the first time I cranked in a big lake trout. The backbone of these reels is their reliable drag, hefty gear system, and a strong but light frame. I’ve put them through tough days exposed to water and sun, and they’ve held up with simple maintenance.

These reels truly shine during long tournaments or weekend trips, where consistency means everything. I can count on them to perform regardless of changing weather or heavy daily use, a real confidence booster when every catch counts.

Main Models and What They Do Best

The Okuma Convector Series isn’t just one reel. It’s a whole family. Here’s a closer look at the main types you’ll probably come across, making sure you can track down a reel that fits your specific fishing needs.

• Convector “B” Series: This is the newest version, now even tougher and smoother. Best for anglers who work their gear hard in both saltwater and freshwater. Models include right and left-handed options, and they all feature the Carbonite drag system and upgraded brass gears, giving you top-notch strength and precision in every fight.
• Line Counter Models: These have CVT (Clear View Technology), which keeps the counter fog-free. Great for exact lure depth control, especially for salmon and walleye trolling. I rely on this for setting spreads at precise depths, which is crucial in crowded tournaments or while exploring new water.
• Low Profile Line Counter: A compact choice that’s my current favorite for walleye trolling, lightweight, strong, and fast to adjust with the Quick Drop clutch switch. The smaller footprint makes a difference when running multiple rods in tight boat spaces.
• High-speed Levelwind: Built with a higher gear ratio, so I can crank in more line, faster. This feature is handy for deep copper or leadcore techniques, where quick retrieves save me time and energy, enabling me to reset presentations or check baits with little downtime.
• Standard Convector: Reliable for daily trolling needs, mixing tough stainless and brass parts with Okuma’s own stabilization tech. This is the workhorse reel, offering steady performance day in and day out, making it a favorite for anglers who keep things simple but effective.

Essential Features Explained

Each Convector model shines in its own way. Here are the highlights I rely on and what you can expect if you pick one up:

• Multidisc Carbonite Drag: The drag is reliable and steady. I felt the difference instantly fighting big chinook. Consistent pressure helps keep hooks set and lines from snapping. Whether you’re targeting trophy-sized fish or smaller species, this drag system gives you an edge every time.
• Oversized Brass XL Gear Train: This means strength when I’m pulling heavy gear or dealing with stubborn fish at depth. Brass lasts a long time with some grease, which is a plus for gear I want to keep around. It also makes these reels great for high-demand techniques like pulling leadcore or copper lines.
• Corrosion-Resistant Frame: The frame is lightweight but stands up to both freshwater and saltwater. I clean and rinse mine after saltwater days, and so far there’s no sign of damage. This resilience means I don’t worry about reels freezing up midseason.
• Line Counter with CVT: CVT means the window never fogs up, so I always know how deep my presentation is running. Foggy counters have cost me fish in the past; not anymore.
• Wide Mouth Levelwind: I appreciate this feature when running heavy braid or copper setups; the line lays evenly, and I get fewer snags on big drops. Managing snags is a big deal on busy trolling runs.
• Quick Drop Switch (Low Profile): This button controls the clutch instantly. I can drop my bait one-handed, making it easy to set or check rods quickly when things get busy.
• Mechanical Stabilization System (MSS): Keeps the gears aligned, even under hard use. Older reels used to grind or wear out, but my Convector reels continue running smoothly season after season. I’ve put this to the test during extended outings, and it delivers every time.

Available Models, Specs, and Pricing

Depending on the model, Convector reels fall around the midprice range, affordable for what they offer but not entry-level. Here are a few specs and price points from current sellers:

• Okuma Convector “B” Line Counter CV-15DB: $129.99
• Okuma Convector “B” Line Counter CV-20DB: $129.99
• Okuma Convector “B” Line Counter CV-20DLB (Left Hand): $129.99
• Okuma Convector “B” Line Counter CV-30DLB (Left Hand): $134.99
• Okuma Convector Low Profile Line Counter: Around $135, compact at 11.7 ounces, over 22 pounds of drag pressure
• Highspeed Levelwind: Similar price range, with higher gear ratios for fast retrieves

Prices can change over time, so checking shops such as FishUSA and Okuma Fishing USA gives you up-to-date info and sometimes good deals. If you want the best value, watch for seasonal sales or package bundles that can get you reels and line at a discount.

Benefits to Expect Using Convector Reels

There are clear reasons I keep these reels in my spread. Here are some standout benefits I’ve found while using them for trolling different species, ensuring you get the most out of every trip:

• Precise Depth Control: The built-in mechanical line counter lets me set my spread and keep lines at consistent depths. This is a game-changer for multirod setups and helps me stay on active schools of fish. Patterning bites becomes a lot simpler.
• One-Handed Operation: The Quick Drop system lets me adjust the line quickly with just a thumb movement. This saves time when managing several lines in choppy water and reduces the chance of missed strikes while reeling in.
• Long-lasting Construction: Machined aluminum spools, anodized finishes, and robust handles make for reels that hold up to regular use, as long as I do simple maintenance. The build quality stands up to years of weekend fishing and tournament pressure.
• Consistent Drag Performance: The ratcheting star on the drag keeps settings from changing by accident, so my drag stays right where I want it, even during long runs or rough handling. This makes landing bigger fish less stressful.
• Solid Value: For the quality and features, I feel these reels are a sound investment. Not having to replace them every season means more money stays in my gear fund for other upgrades, like rods or electronics.

Alongside these, I’d add that using the same series across all rods simplifies swapping parts and maintenance, further boosting convenience during busy fishing days.

Drawbacks to Consider

No reel is perfect for every application. Here are the areas where I find the Convector series has some limitations:

• Saltwater Vulnerability: The graphite body, while strong and light, is not as tough as all-metal reels in harsh saltwater settings. Regular rinsing and greasing are really important if I want to avoid corrosion or wear, especially after contact with salty spray or rough water.
• Potential for Corrosion: Whenever I use these reels with saltwater, I make sure to clean them well. Skipping this can mean sticky gears or loss of smooth feeling over time, so maintenance is a must for long-term reliability.
• Graphite Body in Tough Conditions: While it saves weight, the graphite construction might not survive endless abuse like a pure stainless or all-aluminum reel would in commercial use or under continuous harsh treatment. For weekend anglers, though, it’s likely strong enough.

Tips for Setting Up and Maintaining Okuma Convector Reels

I get the best results from my Convector reels by paying attention to setup and care. Here’s how I make the most out of them:

• Line Selection: I use braid or leadcore for lake trout and salmon. Make sure the line counter is calibrated each year, since spool diameter affects readout accuracy. Using a line with a matching diameter can also bump up the line counter’s precision.
• Regular Maintenance: After saltwater use, I always rinse the reel gently with fresh water and let it dry away from the sun. Once a month, I check the gears and regrease if needed. This routine ensures everything stays in top shape and helps prevent wear.
• Storage: I loosen the drag when storing my reels for the offseason. This simple step keeps the drag washers in better shape for the next year, guaranteeing smoother performance every spring.

Additionally, I always store my rods and reels inside during extreme heat or cold, which stops seals and handles from degrading prematurely. Having a maintenance checklist taped inside my tackle box prevents missed steps and prolongs my reel’s life.

RealWorld Applications: How I Use the Convector Series

I’ve used Convector reels for all sorts of trolling, from pulling deep-diver crankbaits for walleye to three-color leadcore for coho and surface spreaders for brown trout. Being able to set baits precisely at depth, quickly readjust, and count on my gear to take a beating is a huge plus.

One of my most memorable mornings on the water was running four Convectors side by side, tracking every move on the counters, and finding consistent results as soon as I set all rods to the same number. That kind of repeatability makes patterning fish much simpler, and lets you stick with productive spots longer without second-guessing your setup.

The versatility is eye-catching, too. I’ve found that switching between walleye, trout, and salmon is seamless, given the wide array of sizes and line capacities. Even on big lakes where the weather changes fast, these reels give me confidence to try new tactics and cover water effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions About Okuma Convector Series Reels

Here are some common questions that come up when anglers start thinking about these reels:

Final Thoughts on the Okuma Convector Trolling Reels

I rely on the Okuma Convector Series whenever I want solid, reliable performance for a mix of trolling styles, without spending at the very top end of the market. With proper care, these reels have provided me with years of dependable service, and they’ve handled plenty of hard-pulling fish along the way.

Wrapping up, if you want trolling reels that hit the sweet spot between value, features, and real-world toughness—while keeping regular care in mind for saltwater use—the Convector Series is a smart and practical choice for anglers at all skill levels. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a more avid tournament fan, these reels deliver steady performance and make fishing adventures a lot more enjoyable.

Check Out Our Most Recent Articles:

• 
  Piscifun Saltflow Rod Review
• 
  Winter Surf Fishing On The US West Coast
• 
  The Abu Garcia Beast Low Profile Reel
• 
  6 Tips to Using Slider Rigs For Surf Fishing
• 
  Daiwa Seaborg Electric Reels
• 
  9 Winter Surf Fishing Tips For Stripers

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. You can follow us on Facebook: Rex The Beach Angler, Instagram: thebeachangler7, Twitter: @AnglerBeach, and YouTube: Man Art Creations.

P.S. Thanks so much for checking out our blog; we really appreciate it. Just so you know, we may receive a commission if you click on some of the links that appear on our site. This helps us keep our content free and up-to-date for everyone. We appreciate your support!