Okuma Coldwater Series: The Precision Trolling Workhorse

For anglers who rely on precision, durability, and power, the Okuma Coldwater series has carved out an indispensable niche in the fishing world. Primarily known for its robust line counter models, the Coldwater family is a purpose-built collection of reels designed to excel in the demanding techniques of trolling for salmon, trout, walleye, kokanee, and other large freshwater and inshore gamefish.

This article provides an in-depth look at the entire Coldwater series, from its core technologies to its distinct model variations, helping you understand why it’s a trusted choice on so many boats.

Core Technologies: The Coldwater Foundation

Across its various models, the Coldwater series is built on a shared platform of technologies engineered for performance and longevity.

Corrosion-Resistant Frame & Sideplates: The foundation of the reel is a lightweight, rigid, and corrosion-resistant frame (graphite on standard models, aluminum on low-profile). This ensures that all internal components remain in perfect alignment, even under the heavy strain of downriggers, divers, or large fish.
Multi-Disc Carbonite Drag System: This is one of Okuma’s hallmark features. The Carbonite drag system utilizes proprietary carbon-based washers that dissipate heat and provide a wide, smooth, and consistent drag range. This eliminates the “jerky” startup drag that can pop hooks or break lines.
XL Gearing System: The Coldwater features oversized, heavy-duty machine-cut brass main and pinion gears. This “XL” gearing provides a larger contact surface, resulting in superior cranking power, a smoother feel, and exceptional durability over time.
Mechanical Stabilizing System (MSS): This internal support system ties the spool shaft, pinion gear, and main gear together, eliminating frame flex and stabilizing all critical components. This is especially important when fishing with heavy wire or copper lines.
Dual Anti-Reverse System: For rock-solid hooksets, the Coldwater employs both a stainless steel roller bearing (for quick-set, instant engagement) and a mechanical “dog” anti-reverse. This redundancy provides a failsafe system that won’t slip under pressure.
Clear View Technology (CVT): A common frustration with line counter reels is a fogged-up counter window. Okuma’s CVT features an anti-fogging coating on the inside of the counter’s lens, ensuring you can always read your line-out measurement, regardless of temperature or humidity changes.

The Okuma Coldwater Family: Models & Applications

The Coldwater series is not a single reel but a family with several variations, each tailored to specific angling needs.

1. The Classic: Coldwater Line Counter (CW Series)

This is the flagship of the series, easily identified by its traditional round reel profile. It is the workhorse for the majority of trolling applications.

Models: CW-153D, CW-203D, CW-303D, CW-453D (and their left-hand “DLX” counterparts). The recent “A” series (e.g., CW-15DA) represents the latest update with 3BB+1RB stainless steel bearings for added smoothness.
Key Features: Features all the core technologies listed above, including the self-lubricating gearing system and a “Wide Mouth” levelwind that provides ample clearance for knots and non-traditional lines like copper.
Best For: This is the quintessential reel for Great Lakes salmon and trout trolling, walleye trolling with planer boards, and downrigger fishing for kokanee or lake trout. The different sizes accommodate everything from light braid to heavy monofilament.

2. The Powerhouse: Coldwater Wire Line (DS Series)

Built specifically for the rigors of fishing with wire or heavy copper, these “DS” models are all about speed and power.

Models: CW-303DS, CW-453DS
Key Features: The defining feature is a high-speed 6.2:1 gear ratio. This allows anglers to retrieve the massive amounts of heavy wire or copper line needed for deep-water presentations much more quickly, which is critical for resetting lines or fighting a fish that runs toward the boat. They also feature a non-levelwind model (CW-553LS) for massive line capacity.
Best For: Deep-water trolling for salmon and lake trout using heavy wire (Dipsy Divers) or long segments of copper line.

3. The Modern Troller: Coldwater Low Profile (CW-D Series)

This model combines the power and precision of the Coldwater line counter with the comfort and ergonomics of a modern baitcasting reel.

Models: CW-354D, CW-454D
Key Features: Its compact, ergonomic, low-profile design is extremely comfortable to hold and palm, making it a favorite for techniques that involve more hands-on fishing. It also features a rigid diecast aluminum frame for maximum strength in a smaller package.
Best For: Walleye anglers who “bottom-bounce” or troll with crankbaits, steelhead “boondogging” or back-trolling, and even casting/jigging applications where knowing your line-out is a benefit.

4. The Specialist: Coldwater SS Low Profile (CWS-D Series)

The “SS” (Stainless Steel) model takes the low-profile concept and reinforces it for maximum durability and corrosion resistance.

Models: CWS-354D, CWS-454D
Key Features: The “SS” stands for its upgraded internal components: a stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, drive shaft, and spool shaft. This makes the reel exceptionally tough and highly resistant to corrosion, extending its life significantly in harsh environments (both fresh and saltwater).
Best For: This is the ultimate reel for anglers who are extremely hard on their gear or fish in brackish/saltwater environments. It’s a top choice for targeting powerful fish like salmon, striper, and is even gaining popularity among trophy catfish anglers.

5. The Coldwater “Ladies Edition” (LE Series)

Functionally identical to the standard models, the “LE” series offers a different aesthetic.

Models: CW-203D-LE, CW-203DLX-LE
Key Features: These reels feature the same robust internals as the standard CW-203D model but come in a distinctive purple and pink color scheme.
Best For: Any angler who wants the proven Coldwater performance in a unique color.

Specifications at a Glance

Model Type	Common Sizes	Gear Ratio(s)	Max Drag	Bearings	Primary Application
Standard Line Counter	153, 203, 303, 453	5.1:1 or 4.2:1	18-20 lbs	2BB+1RB (or 3BB+1RB in ‘A’ series)	General Trolling (Walleye, Salmon, Trout)
Wire Line (High Speed)	303DS, 453DS	6.2:1	20 lbs	2BB+1RB	Trolling with Wire or Copper Line
Low Profile Line Counter	354, 454	5.4:1	25 lbs	3BB+1RB	Walleye, Steelhead, Hands-On Trolling
Low Profile “SS”	354, 454	5.4:1	25-30 lbs	3BB+1RB	Heavy-Duty Trolling, Saltwater, Catfish

Export to Sheets

(Note: Specifications may vary slightly by specific model and generation.)

Final Verdict

The Okuma Coldwater series has earned its reputation as a reliable and powerful tool for precision trolling. It successfully bridges the gap between affordability and high-end performance.

While its main competitor, the Okuma Convector, offers a slightly more budget-friendly option, the Coldwater steps up the game with a more robust drag system, superior anti-fogging technology, and in the case of the “SS” models, a level of internal durability built for a lifetime of hard fishing.

Whether you are a Great Lakes troller dialing in your spread, a walleye angler meticulously following a contour line, or a salmon fisherman who can’t afford a single point of failure, the Coldwater series offers a model specifically built to meet the demand.