Designed from the frame up for the heaviest offshore battles, the Makaira is a reel that combines brute strength with refined engineering, a combination that has earned a spot in history books after landing a 443-pound world-record yellowfin tuna. For serious big-game fishermen, the Makaira isn’t just another lever drag reel—it’s a piece of equipment built to inspire confidence when the stakes are at their highest.
Every component of the Makaira was designed with a single mission in mind: to deliver maximum strength and durability without sacrificing smoothness or control. Offshore battles with marlin, bluefin, and giant yellowfin are unpredictable, demanding long runs, sudden changes in direction, and unrelenting torque against the angler.
The one-piece machined rigid frame sets the tone. Precision-cut from aluminum, it eliminates flex under extreme pressure, giving anglers the solid foundation required for hours-long fights. When you’re strapped into a harness and every crank of the handle matters, that rigidity translates to energy-efficiency and control.
Equally impressive is the two-speed stainless steel gearing. With the push of a button, anglers can instantly shift from “high-speed” for line pickup to “low-gear” for cranking power. It’s a feature that becomes invaluable when a fish changes tactics mid-fight. A tuna may charge toward the boat, requiring fast retrieval to keep the line tight, and in the very next moment, run deep, forcing you to bear down and grind with maximum torque. The Makaira handles both scenarios seamlessly.
The reel’s patented T-Bar handle also plays a huge role in outlasting long battles. Shaped to reduce hand fatigue and maximize leverage, it gives anglers a stronger, more comfortable grip. Anyone who has cranked on a fish for hours knows how vital ergonomics become once fatigue sets in. The Makaira’s handle makes sustained pressure possible without draining the angler.
At the heart of the Makaira’s reputation is its Dual Force Lever Drag System. This system utilizes a pair of oversized drag surfaces to distribute pressure evenly, ensuring a smoother output and reducing the risk of binding. A thrust bearing further enhances this performance by minimizing side load at heavy drag settings. The result is a reel that can deliver the kind of smooth, unwavering drag needed to subdue record-class fish.
Unlike some reels where heavy drag introduces jerky starts or uneven pressure, the Makaira keeps things steady. Smooth drag isn’t a luxury—it’s the difference between pulling hooks, breaking line, or staying connected until the gaff sinks in. For anglers targeting giants, that peace of mind is priceless.
The Makaira’s attention to detail extends beyond raw power. Its helical cut gearing ensures smooth, silent operation, while the silent anti-reverse system adds a solid, confident feel to every crank. Together, they make the reel quiet and precise, even when heavy torque is applied.
Saltwater is unforgiving, and Okuma tackled that challenge with its CRC (Corrosion Resistant Coating) process. Each component is coated to withstand long-term exposure to harsh conditions, giving the Makaira longevity that matches its strength. This reel isn’t just built for a season—it’s built for a career on the water.
Okuma recognizes that offshore gear is as much about pride of ownership as performance. That’s why the Makaira is offered in sizes from 10 to 130, covering everything from light-tackle striper applications to true big-game work.
For anglers who invest the time, money, and preparation into chasing big game offshore, equipment failures are not an option. Every element of the trip, from bait prep to tackle choice, comes down to eliminating weak links. The Makaira was engineered to remove doubt. Its drag system, gearing, and frame all serve the same purpose: to give anglers the confidence that when a fish of a lifetime strikes, the reel in their hands will deliver.
If you’re ready to take on the toughest fights the ocean can offer, the Makaira belongs on your list. It’s strong, smooth, reliable, and proven. In the world of big-game fishing, that’s exactly what matters most.
