Daiwa Opus Schematics

Daiwa Opus Schematics

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Daiwa Opus Reels: Heavy-Duty Spinning for Saltwater and Big Game

The Daiwa Opus series of spinning reels are recognized for their robust construction and capacity, designed to handle demanding fishing situations in both freshwater and saltwater environments. While they may not be the latest models in Daiwa’s lineup, they have a reputation as reliable workhorse reels, particularly suited for surf, pier, jetty, and boat fishing where extra line capacity and a strong drag are essential.  

These reels appear to have been offered in a few variations over time, including the standard Daiwa Opus Heavy Action Spinning Reels, the Daiwa Opus Plus-A (and Opus Plus Bite ‘N Run), and the Daiwa Opus Bull.

Key Features Commonly Associated with Daiwa Opus Reels:

  • Heavy-Duty Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of heavy action fishing, often featuring durable body materials. The Opus Bull model, for instance, is noted for its rigid metal body and rotor.  
  • High Line Capacity: Opus reels typically come in larger sizes (e.g., 4500, 5000, 5500, 6000) designed to hold ample amounts of monofilament or braided line, crucial for battling large fish or fishing in deep water.  
  • Strong Drag Systems: Equipped with smooth, multi-disc drag systems capable of exerting significant pressure (max drag often cited around 33 lbs). The Opus Bull specifically mentions a ratchet front brake with gaskets.  
  • Twist Buster® Line Twist Reduction: A common Daiwa feature designed to minimize line twist, which is especially beneficial when using spinning reels.  
  • ABS Spool Design: Daiwa’s Anti-Backlash System spool design promotes longer casts and better line management. Spools are often made of aluminum or a durable composite.  
  • Infinite Anti-Reverse: Provides solid hooksets by eliminating handle back-play. Some models feature a double stopper system.  
  • Bearings: The number of bearings varies by specific Opus model:
    • Standard Opus reels are often described with a simpler 1BB (ball bearing) + 1RB (roller bearing) system.
    • Opus Plus-A models typically feature more bearings (e.g., 4BB + 1RB or even 6BB + 1RB in the Bite ‘N Run version).
    • Opus Bull models are listed with 3+1 bearings, with some being specialized SUS (Saybolt Universal Seconds) bearings.  
  • Digigear™ Digital Gear Design (Opus Plus-A and Opus Plus Bite ‘N Run): This technology ensures optimized gear meshing for smoothness, power, and longevity.  
  • Air Bail® (Opus Plus Bite ‘N Run and Opus Bull): A lightweight, hollow tubular stainless steel bail arm design that is strong and helps prevent line snagging.  
  • Bite ‘N Run Feature (Opus Plus Bite ‘N Run): This specialized clutch system allows fish to take a trolled or drifted bait with minimal resistance. A turn of the handle engages the main drag for setting the hook.  

Variations in the Opus Line:

  • Daiwa Opus Heavy Action: These are the more basic models, emphasizing value and extra capacity with a single ball bearing plus a roller bearing.
  • Daiwa Opus Plus-A / Opus Plus Bite ‘N Run: These upgraded versions offer more ball bearings, Daiwa’s Digigear technology for enhanced smoothness and power, and often an aluminum spool (some standard Opus models might have composite spools). The Bite ‘N Run version adds a bait-feeder function.  
  • Daiwa Opus Bull: Positioned as a very powerful reel with an excellent quality/price ratio, featuring a rigid metal body and rotor, more specialized bearings, and designed for strong fishing applications like jigging, surf fishing for large species, and targeting catfish.  

Target Applications:

Daiwa Opus reels are generally suited for:

  • Saltwater Fishing: Surf casting, pier and jetty fishing, and boat fishing for a variety of saltwater species.  
  • Heavy Freshwater Fishing: Targeting large catfish, sturgeon, or other big freshwater game where strong drag and high line capacity are needed.
  • Anglers looking for an affordable, extra-capacity reel for heavy-duty applications.

Availability in Canada:

  • The Daiwa Opus series appears to be largely discontinued or not actively marketed as new by major Daiwa retailers.
  • However, some models, particularly the Opus Heavy Action or Opus Plus, may still be found through:
    • Online marketplaces like eBay.ca, often from U.S. or international sellers.  
    • Some U.S.-based online retailers.
    • Older stock at smaller, independent tackle shops.
  • Pricing, when found, generally positions the Opus reels as budget-friendly to mid-range options for their size and capabilities.