Okuma Cavalla 12II: The Compact 2-Speed Powerhouse

At Gerrys Fishing, we recognize the Okuma Cavalla 12II as a top-tier choice for the serious boat angler who demands versatility and brute strength. This is a dedicated 2-speed lever drag reel, engineered to handle everything from high-speed lure work to winching monster fish from the depths. Constructed from a rigid 1-piece 6061-T6 machined aluminum frame, the Cavalla is built to withstand the immense pressures of offshore fishing without the frame flexing or distorting.

The standout feature of the 12II is its dual-speed gearing. With a simple push of a button, you can switch from a fast 4.7:1 ratio (ideal for clearing lines or working lures) to a high-torque 2.1:1 ratio, which provides the mechanical advantage needed to pump a stubborn shark, conger, or common skate up to the surface.

Technical Specifications

The Cavalla 12II is a precision-machined tool built for maximum structural integrity:

Elite Offshore Performance Features

• 2-Speed Gearing System: The ability to shift gears mid-fight is a game-changer. The high gear recovers line quickly, while the low gear transforms the reel into a powerful winch for heavy-lifting scenarios.

• 17-4 Grade Stainless Steel Gears: Unlike the brass or alloy gears found in lighter reels, the Cavalla uses ultra-hard stainless steel internals. This ensures that the gear teeth wont strip or shear even under the most extreme loads.

• Carbonite Drag with Cals Grease: This multi-disc drag system is pre-treated with world-renowned Cals universal drag grease. This ensures the drag remains buttery smooth from the moment a fish strikes until its at the side of the boat, preventing jerky transitions that cause line breakage.

• CRC: Corrosion Resistant Coating: Every internal and external part is treated with a specialized coating that penetrates the metal, providing a layer of protection against the harsh salt-spray environment.

• Silent Retrieve System: Okuma has engineered this reel to be incredibly smooth and quiet during the retrieve, reducing vibration and giving the angler a better feel for what is happening at the business end of the line.

• Ergo Grip Handle: The oversized handle knob is designed to fit perfectly in the palm, reducing hand fatigue during long battles and providing a non-slip surface when wet.

• On/Off Bait Clicker: A loud, high-visibility clicker that is essential for trotting baits or letting a fish run with a live bait before engaging the drag.

Where to Use the Okuma Cavalla 12II

The 12II size is the goldilocks of the rangelarge enough for serious offshore work but light enough for all-day use:

• UK Blue Shark Fishing: The 15.4kg max drag and high line capacity make this an ideal choice for targeting Blues and Porbeagles off the coast of Cornwall or Ireland.

• Deep Water Wrecking: Perfect for pumping large Cod, Ling, and Pollack up from deep-water wrecks where the 2-speed function helps move fish away from the structure quickly.

• Specimen Common Skate: The 2.1:1 low gear is a necessity when trying to lift a barn door Skate off the seabed in the Scottish Highlands.

• General Reef & Boat Fishing: Because of its compact 12-size frame, it balances beautifully on 20-30lb or 30-50lb class boat rods for general heavy-duty angling.

Gerrys Pro Tip: When using a lever drag reel like the Cavalla, always remember to adjust your Preset drag knob only when the lever is in the Free position. Adjusting it while the drag is engaged can put unnecessary stress on the internal cam. For most UK applications, we recommend setting your Strike position to roughly 25-30% of your lines breaking strain