In this review of the Okuma Avenger reel, we will examine the two models in this series.
The Avenger spinning reels feature 7 total ball bearings for the ultimate in smoothness and feature up to 22lbs of drag pressure out of the multi-disc, Japanese oiled felt drag system.
First is the Okuma Avenger B and then the Okuma Avenger ABF “B” series.
I did not do a separate review of the two different models as the primary difference in the ABF is the bait-feeding system; other than that, the two reels are identical.
The Okuma Avenger is the bread and butter of the Okuma brand, claiming to be responsible for “putting more fish on the bank or the boat than any other Okuma product.”
The Okuma Avenger is a very affordable reel with a price point in the $59 – $69 range.
I find it an average-quality reel that almost anyone can afford, but is this the best reel for your hard-earned money?
Features
Overall, the Okuma Avenger appears to be a decent-quality reel. Out of the box, it feels pretty smooth, which I am sure can be attributed to its six-ball bearings. Let’s take a look at the features a bit closer.
6 Ball Bearings
6 Ball Bearings are a bit misleading as there are seven ball bearings, 6 for the reel and the 7th for the anti-reverse, to ensure that the drag is engaged correctly.
The drag will allow the line to spool out at a certain speed based on how tight you have set the drag and how much pressure the fish applies to the end of the line.
Oil-Soaked Washers
Okuma has incorporated oil-soaked felt washers into the drag system, providing an exceptionally smooth feeling as the line is pulled off the spool. With some reels with a lower-quality washer system, you will notice that the reel jerks when a fish takes line – this is not the case with this reel.
Sealed Gear Box
The gearbox is sealed and should keep water, sand, and dirt out, but as with any reel, you must rinse and take care of it to ensure a long lifespan.
Graphite Rotor and Body
This reel incorporates a graphite body and rotor design so that you can expect a longer lifespan than an aluminum body. The graphite is also stronger and lighter than its aluminum counterpart.
Even though the body is graphite, you must rinse the reel after each use, mainly if you use it in saltwater conditions.
Reversible Retrieve
The reel can easily be switched between a left and right-hand retrieve by unscrewing the handle and switching sides.
On/Off Bait Feeding System (ABF Model Only)
The Okuma Avenger ABF model has a simple on/off switch that lets you flip a switch to put the reel into the bait feeding mode (See Bait Feeding Model Below).
Features at a Glance
- Six ball bearings
- QuickSet anti-reverse bearing
- RES II Rotor Equalizing System
- Lightweight, 2-tone aluminum spool
- Elliptical Gearing System
- Precision, machine-cut brass pinion gear
- High-quality Japanese oiled felt drag washers
- Corrosion-resistant graphite body and rotor construction
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel bail wire
- Reversible right and left-hand retrieval
- Standard handle grips on models AV-10b through AV-30b
- T-shaped handles on models AV-35b through AV-80b
Bait Feeder Model ABF “B”
The Okuma Avenger is probably best known for the bait feeder model, which is essentially the same reel as the Avenger B with the addition of the On/Off auto trip bait feeding system switch.
If you are unfamiliar with a bait feeder, it has a unique design that allows you to place the rod in a non-manned mode when using multiple rods, mainly when fishing from the banks. Switching the rod into bait-feeding mode will let the line run free with minimal drag when a fish takes your bait.
You will still hear the line playing out from the reel; however, there is not enough drag to permit the fish to pull your beloved rig into the water and never be seen again. Once you pick up the rod and reel and turn the handle slightly, you will engage the regular drag system and can now bring your fish into the bank or the boat.
If you are the type of fisherman who likes to take your favorite beverage to the riverbank and have 2-3 rods in the water simultaneously, then you should check out a bait feeder reel system.
Pros
- Nice one-handed bait-feeding system
- Sealed gearbox
- Graphite body
- Smooth retrieve
- Corrosion-resistant materials
Cons
- The line does not always lay evenly on the spool.
- Bail does not clear the top of the spool in all positions
- Some plastic parts, which can wear
- The spool is not braid-ready
Alternatives
Suppose a bait feeder system is not something that you are particularly looking for. In that case, I would probably take a look at the Pflueger President reel, which is a few dollars cheaper and, I think, a nicer-looking reel with similar quality features.
Since I usually fish with a braided line, I like the braid-ready spool of the Pflueger President.
If you are looking for a particular bait feeder system, I suggest you take a look at the Penn Fierce II Live Liner Spinning Reel. Look for the live liner version’s model numbers that end in LL.
In Conclusion
If you want a bait feeder reel, I think the Okuma Avenger ABF “B” series is excellent, particularly for the money. Finding a quality reel in the $59-$69 price range can be difficult, and I think Okuma delivers on this exceptionally well.
- Pflueger Patriarch Spinning Review - April 3, 2023
- Penn Fierce II Spinning Reel Review - February 14, 2023
- Abu Garcia Revo STX Baitcast Reel Review - February 8, 2023