Okuma Azores XP ZXP-8000P LS: The Unstoppable Saltwater Winch

When the target is large and the water is deep, speed takes a backseat to raw, mechanical torque. At Gerrys Fishing, we recommend the Okuma Azores XP ZXP-8000P (Low Speed) as the ultimate power-lifter of the Azores family. By dropping the gear ratio down to a specialized 3.8:1, Okuma has created a reel that acts like a winch, allowing you to move heavy weights and stubborn fish that would stall a standard high-speed reel.

This is the tank of the range. Built with a rigid diecast aluminium body (ALC) and reinforced with the Mechanical Stabilizing System (MSS), the 8000P is designed to stay perfectly aligned under the kind of soul-crushing pressure only a monster saltwater species can provide. Combined with a massive 20kg Max Drag, this reel doesnt just participate in the fightit dictates it.

Technical Specifications

The ZXP-8000P trades retrieval speed for maximum cranking leverage and durability:

Built for the Brutal Side of Fishing

• 3.8:1 Power Gearing: This low gear ratio provides immense torque, making it significantly easier to pump a heavy fish up from the seabed or retrieve heavy 1lb+ leads in fast-running tides.

• Dual Force Drag (DFD): By applying pressure to both sides of the spool, the DFD system delivers a staggering 20kg of drag while maintaining a smooth, stutter-free releaseessential when using heavy braid.

• Corrosion Protection: Between the CRC (Corrosion Resistant Coating), the Hydro Block watertight seal, and the high-performance stainless bearings, this reel is built to live on a boat and endure constant salt spray.

• Dual Anti-Reverse: Zero back-play in the handle ensures that every turn of the crank translates directly into moving the fish, with a mechanical ratchet providing a secondary fail-safe.

Where to Use the Azores XP 8000P

The 8000P is a specialist tool for high-torque applications:

• Deep-Sea Wrecking: The perfect choice for winching large Ling, Cod, or Conger Eels out of deep-water wreckage. The 3.8:1 ratio makes the physical effort of the retrieve much more manageable.

• Heavy Tide Ray & Shark Fishing: When fishing in the Bristol Channel or similar high-velocity waters, this reel has the power to bring in heavy gear and big fish against the full force of the tide.

• Slow-Jigging for Big Predators: Ideal for slow-pitch styles where the rhythmic, high-torque retrieve of a low-speed reel is preferred to entice big bottom-dwelling predators.

• Norway & Iceland Trips: If you are heading North for giant Halibut, you need a reel that wont bind under pressure. The Azores 8000P is a proven performer in these extreme conditions.

Gerrys Pro Tip: If you find your arm aching after a day of pumping and winding with a standard reel, switch to the 8000P. The mechanical advantage of the 3.8:1 gearing does the hard work for you, letting you fish longer and harder with less fatigue.