The price on the Okumas is great and Sportco sells alot of them. I fished with someone recently that took his Okuma out for the first time and had a problem repeatedly with the drag not catching. The reel would freespool several feet of line before it caught hold. If you get one you might give it a good backyard tryout before you head to the water. By the responses to your question, it looks like there are several satisfied Okuma users. You might also check E Bay as there are always alot of reels for sale, many are new with warranties.