ICAST 2015 Coverage - Okuma Inspira spinning reel

ICAST 2015 Coverage

Okuma Redesigns the Inspira Spinning Series and it's a Beauty

Date:	7/15/15
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Okuma
Reviewer:	Zander

Introduction: Okuma has a lot of great reels but before the company had all the low profile baitcasters and heavy duty saltwater reels it was known for quality spinning reels above all. This year the company decided it was time to redesign the Inspira spinning reels and what they finally are introducing looks like a beauty.

Brie Gabrielle, Miss Florida USA, shows us the new Okuma Inspira spinning reels

Inspiring features: The new Okuma Inspira spinning reels looks nothing like the previous generation reels and features a completely redesigned profile and is chock full of new features. The reel is built with lightweight C-40X carbon which is uses to construct both the frame and sideplates.

Okuma redesigns the Inspira spinning reels for 2016

One of the first things that anglers will notice is the TSA (Torsion Control Armor) arm which is a single piece of C-40X long strand carbon fiber that is extremely durable and rigid while also very lightweight. This design makes the reel extremely rigid which reduces twist and torque and keeps the internal parts in perfect alignment.

The new reels will be available in both white and blue finishes. This blue finish will pair up nicely with Okuma Scott Martin TCS signature rods

Another striking element in the new Inspira is the uniquely shaped "Cyclonic Flow Rotor" which was designed to create a cyclonic airflow which creates increased air flow through the ported rotor which the company has tested to drastically reduce drying time if the reel becomes wet, which helps reduce the possibility of corrosion throughout the reel.

Notice the single arm design

The Inspira also features a new "Centrifugal Disc Bail" which incorporates a heavier brass disc that is weighted and balanced to create a smoother and easier bail flip operation, while also increasing the strength and stability of the overall bail function.

A look at the cyclonic flow rotor design

The Inspira is available in two colors, and while the white is probably the more striking of the two the blue version showcases more of the C40-X carbon fiber on the Torsion Control Armor component. Each reel comes loaded with 8BB+RB stainless steel bearings, precision elliptical gearing, a forged aluminum anodized handle, and a machined aluminum two toned anodized spool.

The new Okuma Inspira reels offer a lot of features for a sub 80 dollar spinning reel

So what will the new Inspira set you back? Try only $79.99 per reel, a very reasonable price when you consider the carbon design and quality components. Okuma knows how to build a good spinning reel and this one is a beauty.