Mako Reel Co. 7450 Freshwater # 4 - # 6 fly reel

MAKO - uncompromising technology now also for freshwater.
The Mako Reel Co. 7450 Freshwater brings MAKO's legendary engineering skills to a format that is perfectly adapted to demanding freshwater fishing. The excellent reputation of these reels does not come from marketing promises, but from decades of practice with anglers who push their tackle to the limit. Although MAKO is best known for saltwater fishing, the 7450 Freshwater benefits directly from the same technology that has proven itself in battle with the world's strongest fish. At its heart is a fully encapsulated, calibrated and extremely smooth-running carbon fibre drag system that delivers consistent, reliable braking power for many years to come. From completely open to maximum braking power, everything can be called up with a single, buttery smooth turn.

The braking system

The approach behind the Mako 7450 Freshwater's braking system is the same one that underpins high-performance brakes in mechanical and aerospace engineering. For founder and engineer Jack Charlton, carbon fibre was the only brake material that came into question, as it combines maximum resilience with absolute control. The entire braking system is completely sealed to guarantee consistent performance over the long term. This design is based on Charlton's experience in flight control hydraulics, where absolute reliability is imperative. The result is a closed system that requires no lubrication or maintenance - nothing gets in, nothing escapes.

Inside, a multi-disc full-contact carbon brake system works with the so-called Button Technology. This completely eliminates the starting resistance, so that the brakes immediately apply smoothly even at high settings. The full range of braking power can be called up with just one full 360-degree turn of the large, non-slip brake knob. The force increases linearly and controllably. At maximum setting, the brake locks completely and provides more resistance than is ever needed in realistic freshwater scenarios. This extraordinary combination of sensitivity and reserves makes the MAKO brake unique.

In addition, the brake system is calibrated. This means that once a setting has been selected, it will always deliver exactly the same braking force, regardless of wear. An integrated mechanism automatically compensates for material removal by always returning the clutch pressure plate to the correct position. This gives you full control over the pressure on the fish at all times. Even after decades, the same brake button position would produce exactly the same line tension.

Type III anodising

The Mako 7450 Freshwater also stands for maximum durability on the outside. The aluminium, which is milled from solid material, is treated using type III anodising, a particularly complex process that creates an extremely hard, almost ceramic protective layer. This reliably protects the castor from corrosion, scratches, impacts and other mechanical stresses. Although this form of anodising is significantly more cost-intensive than conventional processes, the difference becomes apparent after years of intensive use. Even heavily used castors can be refurbished with minimal effort and look almost as good as new. This surface treatment is an essential part of the legendary durability of MAKO castors.

Ergonomics

In addition to performance and robustness, the Mako 7450 Freshwater also impresses with its outstanding ergonomics. The reel runs exceptionally smoothly and is accompanied by a subtle, pleasant click in both directions of rotation. The large, ergonomically shaped handle sits comfortably in the hand and enables fatigue-free cranking, even during long drills. The brake can be operated intuitively, either with the fingers via the recesses in the knob or comfortably with the ball of the thumb. All edges, millings and transitions are perfectly finished and testify to the highest precision. The slightly higher weight of the castor has been deliberately chosen to ensure stability, smooth running and absolute torsional rigidity.

Our recommendation:

The Mako 7450 Freshwater is optimally designed for rods in classes #4 to #6. It is ideal for demanding freshwater fishing for trout, grayling, barbel or strong rainbow trout in rivers and still water. It also harmonises very well with switch and light trout spey rods, for example for light fishing for salmon and sea trout in small to medium-sized rivers.

Details:

• Absolute premium fly reel
• Specially developed for demanding freshwater fishing
• Large spool design for high retrieving speed and good line capacity
• Smooth clicker sound in both directions of rotation
• Large ergonomic handle for maximum control during the fight
• Fully sealed drag system with O-rings and proprietary Teflon lip seals
• Multi-disc full contact carbon fibre drag system
• Button technology to eliminate starting resistance
• Oversized, calibrated brake knob with stop
• 360-degree rotation for the entire braking range
• Taper-Lock quick-release spool with three ball bearings
• Type III anodisation with almost ceramic hardness
• Lifetime guarantee against manufacturer's defects
• Left Hand Retrieve
• Colour: Matt black

Note: All MAKO fly reels are supplied as Left Hand Retrieve as standard. Should you require a Right Hand Retrieve version, this can be ordered on request.