Description
Okuma Sheffield Centrepin Reel – Smooth Precision for Serious Float Fishing
When it comes to traditional float fishing for species like barbel, chub, roach, dace, grayling, and even carp in the margins, there’s something special about using a true centrepin reel. No gearing, no mechanical noise – just smooth, controlled line flow straight off the spool.
The Okuma Sheffield has earned its reputation as one of the finest modern centrepins available, combining timeless float fishing simplicity with the engineering precision that Okuma is known for. It’s a reel that traditionalists love, but it’s also an ideal first step for anglers looking to get into the rewarding world of trotting rivers with a pin.
Key Specifications
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Feature
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Detail
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Spool Diameter
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4.5” (114mm)
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Spool Width
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0.8” (20mm)
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Material
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Fully machined anodised aluminium
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Bearings
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Precision stainless steel, German-made
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Weight
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Approx. 275g
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Line Capacity
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275yds of 4lb mono
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Check Mechanism
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On/off ratchet
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Retrieve
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Direct drive – 1:1
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Finish
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High-polish with ported design
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What Makes the Okuma Sheffield Special?
Ultra-Smooth Spool Rotation
The Sheffield’s precision German bearings and perfectly balanced spool mean it spins freely and effortlessly – so freely that anglers often demonstrate it by giving the spool a flick and watching it spin for over a minute with no line attached.
Perfect for Trotting
The low start-up inertia allows a float to pull line from the reel with minimal resistance, meaning your bait moves naturally with the current. This is essential for fooling wary river fish in clear, slow or fast-moving water.
Built to Last
The CNC-machined anodised aluminium construction means this reel is tough enough for years of use, yet light enough to be held all day without fatigue. The anodising protects it from corrosion, making it suitable for freshwater and careful estuary work.
Silent or Controlled Fishing
The on/off ratchet (check) gives you control when walking to your swim, playing a fish, or preventing overruns in wind. With the ratchet off, the reel runs completely silent for the purest float fishing experience.
Usage Examples – Where the Sheffield Excels
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Trotting maggots for chub and dace on the River Trent – Cast upstream or across, let the float trot down naturally, and control the drift by feathering the spool with your thumb.
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Winter grayling fishing on clear rivers – Present single maggots, pinkies, or small baits with the finesse that only a pin can give.
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Barbel fishing in moderate flows – Step up line strength and baits to pellet, meat, or paste, and let the Sheffield’s drag-free presentation fool the bigger fish.
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Margin carp float fishing – For a traditional approach on commercials, where silent presentation can be key to bites.
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Loch-style wild trout fishing – Drift a fly or bait naturally with the wind or current without the mechanical pull of fixed-spool reels.
Okuma Sheffield vs Other Centrepin Reels
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Reel
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Bearings
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Weight
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Spool Diameter
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Best Use
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Okuma Sheffield
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2 German stainless
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~275g
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4.5”
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All-round river trotting & margin float fishing
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J W Young Purist II
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None (true pin)
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~290g
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4.5”
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Purist, traditionalist fishing, manual start
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Okuma Aventa Pro
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2
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~310g
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5”
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Budget-friendly, great starter pin
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Kingpin Imperial 475
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2–4
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~280g
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4.75”
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Premium handmade, very high price
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Revelation Centrepin
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None
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~330g
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4.5”
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Affordable, but less smooth than bearings
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The Sheffield hits a sweet spot – smoother and easier to use than traditional bush bearings, but far more affordable than ultra-premium handmade pins. It’s also lighter than many budget pins, meaning it balances well with modern float rods.
Why Centrepin Fishing is Worth It
Switching to a centrepin reel offers:
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Direct contact with the fish – feel every lunge and head shake through your fingers.
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Natural bait presentation – no bail arms or gears to pull against.
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Unmatched control – feather line with your thumb to slow or speed your float’s journey.
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Pure simplicity – no bail springs, rollers, or spools to fail.
Real Angler Reviews
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“Best centrepin I’ve owned in 30 years of fishing – spins forever.”
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“Perfect for the Trent. Trotted for chub all day without a single tangle.”
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“Feels like a handmade reel but at a price that makes sense.”
Key Benefits at a Glance
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✅ Ultra-smooth, low-inertia spool rotation
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✅ German stainless steel bearings
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✅ Balanced for easy handling
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✅ On/off check system
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✅ Durable CNC-machined aluminium construction
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✅ Classic aesthetics with modern engineering
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✅ Suitable for beginners and experts alike
Care Tips for Your Okuma Sheffield
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Store dry after use, especially if used in brackish water.
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Occasionally oil bearings with high-quality reel oil.
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Avoid dropping onto hard surfaces to protect spool alignment.
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Transport in a padded reel case for maximum protection.
Why Buy the Okuma Sheffield from Us
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UK Stock – Genuine Okuma products only.
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Fast Dispatch – Same working day shipping where possible.
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Secure Packaging – Reel arrives ready to fish.
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Expert Advice – We fish this gear ourselves.
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Trusted Seller – Thousands of satisfied anglers.
