By Dave Brown

The Okuma Ricky Red Signature Series of rods are the latest addition to Okuma’s broad range of gulf and inshore rods targeted at the Florida angler. 

 Designed and tested by Rick Murphy, host of hit TV show Sportsmans Adventures, these rods cover the techniques used in and around Florida.        

 “Inshore and offshore rods have different tapers,” stated Rick Murphy, host of Sportsmans Adventures TV.  “We took that and many other factors into consideration in the design to create the perfect set of rods for the Florida inshore fisherman.” 

 The Ricky Red Signature Series rods contain twelve models covering the most common techniques found in the area.  There are eight spinning models including four 7-foot versions designed for precise and accurate casting with medium light, medium, medium heavy and heavy actions, as well as four 7-foot 6-inch versions designed for long casting to cover more water with medium light, medium, medium heavy, and heavy actions.  There are four casting models in the lineup with three of those in the 6-foot 6-inch range with action ranging from medium light to medium heavy, as well as one 7-foot heavy model. 

 The components were hand chosen by Rick Murphy himself and feature Fuji aluminum oxide guide inserts for braided line use, premium Fuji reel seat for maximum reel support, durable swelled cork fore and rear grips for comfort and a stainless steel hook keeper on all models.  Every aspect of the rod was thoroughly thought out.  From the shorter butt sections designed to reduce tangles with loose fitting clothing on hot and windy days, to the extra length on the 7-foot 6-inch models to help in delivery of light jigs or shrimp to hungry bonefish, trout, redfish and snook.