Earl Gill IV (right) used an Okuma Makaira lever-drag reel to catch this world-record yellowfin tuna (443 pounds) last year. Pictured left are Makaira models (top to bottom) MK-1611SEa Black, MK-2011, MK-1611SEa Silver, and MK-20IISEa. (Photos courtesy of Okuma)
November 14, 2025
By Florida Sportsman
The Okuma Makaira lever drag reel is built for the heaviest fights offshore. Just ask Earl Gill IV, who caught a world-record yellowfin tuna last year using Okuma gear.
Gill, on a 10-day trip onboard the Excell sportfishing vessel out of San Diego, set the International Game Fish Association yellowfin world record with a 443-pound catch on Nov. 11, 2024 at the Lower Banks, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It beat the previous IGFA record by more than 15 pounds.
The catch was made using Okuma’s Makaira 20 Size 2-speed lever drag reel with 100-pound test line and chunk bait. Gill used a Makaira Black Series reel, which features a silver-etched yellowfin tuna on its frame—a perfect match for the historic catch.
The world-record yellowfin tuna, caught in November 2024 by Earl Gill IV, weighed 443 pounds. (Photo courtesy of Okuma) More on the Makaira Series The Makaira has long been known for its toughness, innovation and raw power, and Gill’s catch only reinforces its legendary reputation. Every part of the Makaira is overbuilt for raw strength, smooth drag and lasting power, giving anglers the confidence to face giants and the power to see every battle through to the end.
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Built for billfish, monster tuna and the heaviest fights you’ll find offshore, the reel delivers the strength, smooth drag and reliability anglers need when it matters.
Makaira Features
One-Piece Machined Rigid Frame – Built to withstand maximum pressure and torque. Patented T-Bar Handle – Ergonomic design for sustained power with less fatigue. 2-Speed Stainless Steel Gearing – Switch from fast retrieves to torque-driven cranking at the push of a button. Dual Force Lever Drag System – Ultra-smooth drag output with a thrust bearing that reduces side load under heavy settings. Helical Cut Gearing & Silent Anti-Reverse – Smooth, quiet, and stronger under heavy torque. Corrosion-Resistant Coating (CRC) – Long-term protection in punishing saltwater conditions. The angler used an Okuma Makaira Black Series reel to set the world yellowfin tuna record. (Courtesy of Okuma) Available in sizes from 10 to 130 and in standout finishes, including Gold, Black, Sea, Sea Silver, and Sea Mahi - Makaira is ready for any battle and built to match your style.
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