I had the opportunity to fish my latest Okuma rod and reel acquisition yesterday and again this morning. I'm ready to share my thoughts after using this setup on four trips to the water. The rig I chose is a very affordable package for specific applications. The blank is designated for jerkbaits and crankbaits. It is Medium Power/Moderate Action - soft but not wimpy. The construction gives it enough backbone for a crisp response when working a jerkbait and forgiving flex when fighting a fish. I am especially fond of this length for this technique.
Scott Martin designs the Okuma Scott Martin Signature Tournament Concept Casting rods for specific applications. I cast a variety of lures with accuracy and reasonable distance. The rod loads well and recovers nicely.
Features:
- 40-ton carbon, ultra-sensitive blank construction
- EVA split grip and EVA foregrip for reduced weight and feel
- Foregrip designed, so reel seat threads aren't exposed
- Customized C-40X carbon reel seats
- Hard aluminum oxide guide inserts for use with braided line
- ALPS stainless steel guide frames
- Intermediate guide sizing on casting rods for improved knot clearance
- Scott Martin specialty flipping guide on Mat Daddy and Flipping/Jig rod
- Hook keeper replacement in the split grip area
- Limited lifetime warranty
The TCS-C-661M+ is an excellent value at an MSRP of just $139.99. The design contrasts a black base with blue and silver accents. This gives it a sleek, professional look. The rod matches perfectly with the new Okuma Cerros.
Cerros Low-profile reel
This is a compact reel that palms beautifully. The aluminum frame serves as a robust foundation. Nine bearings plus Quick-Set anti-reverse bearing enhance casting distance. My reel has a gear ratio of 6.6:1, but 7.3:1 is another option. The Cerros features magnetic brakes and a complete 24-point magnetic cast control. I found dialing the reel in to be quick and easy. The reel matches the aesthetic beauty of the rod and makes this quite a handsome outfit. I spooled mine with transparent (white) Sunline Super Natural, making the entire combination pop! At an MSRP of $99.99, this is an impressive reel. Beyond the striking appearance, the TCS-C-661M+ saddled with the Cerros balance perfectly and projected the illusion of being weightless. In hand, the rod is slightly tip-up without a lure, a feature I find particularly attractive. I look forward to putting the reel to the test this spring and summer.
Features
• ALC: Rigid diecast aluminum frame
• A6061-T6 machined aluminum, anodized V-shaped spool
• Multi-disc composite drag system
• 9BB + 1RB bearing drive system
• Micro-click drag star for precise drag settings
• External adjustable magnetic cast control system
• 24-point adjustment on cast control for precise settings
• Quick-Set anti-reverse roller bearing
• Corrosion resistant graphite side plates
• Side plate access port for quick spool changes
• Lightweight and comfortable EVA handle knobs
• Available in both right and left hand retrieve
• a 1-year warranty backs Cerros reels
I want to conclude by comparing my "new jerkbait rig" to the gear I have used for the past decade when fishing jerkbaits. This is a St. Croix Avid AVC66MF with a soft tip paired with a Shimano Scorpion. Although I have been thrilled with the seasoned equipment, the new offering from Okuma feels better in my hands. Time will tell, but I am very excited about this combination. I will follow up with an update on this review in a few months.