THE VSystem reels are the latest offering from Okuma that will serve as its premium range of spinning reels. Touted as the culmination of a multinational development project, the VSystem reels aim to target anglers who want quality without the price tag. The smallest VS15 is tiny and will be popular with the ultra-light brigade. The largest VS80 is a beast and is aimed at the big fish, blue water market. I have been using the VS20 as my bream and trout light spinning reel.
The VSystem reels look like a premium reel with a slate grey, pearl, silver and gold finish. The larger reels have an oversized handle providing a nice, firm grip. The smaller reels have a standard paddle handle, which is fine for these sizes. Each comes with a spare spool for running different line classes or a braid/mono combination.
Internally, I was impressed with the VSystem’s Extreme Element Ball Bearing (E2BB) system. These are expected to offer the ultimate in corrosion resistance and longevity. Not all bearings are EEB technology, only those most likely to be exposed to the elements, but the remainder are still high performance bearings. The smaller reels (VS15, VS20 and VS30) have 12 bearings in total and the remainder 15.
They are certainly smooth and balanced to wind due to the Okuma Rotor Equalising System and Elliptical Oscillation System which combine to provide precise rotations of the rotor head while still ensuring even distribution of line on the spool.
Okuma is providing a five-year warranty for the VSystem which should help to establish it as a quality reel at an affordable price.
Contact: Rapala Freetime on (02) 9780 8200
