Okuma Sheffield Centre Pin S-1002 Review

The Okuma Sheffield Centre Pin S-1002 is a traditional-style centrepin reel aimed at anglers who enjoy trotting rivers for species such as chub, roach, dace and barbel. It isn't the cheapest way into centrepin fishing, but its smooth operation and solid construction make it a reel designed for anglers who intend to use one regularly. I've owned and used one for over 15 years and it is a favorite of mine for trotting. I've caught some cracking grayling to well over 2lb and chub to 8lb 1oz when using this reel. 

Built for River Trotting

A good centrepin needs to run smoothly with very little resistance, allowing the current to pull line from the reel naturally as the float travels downstream.

This is where the Okuma Sheffield performs particularly well. Its free-running spool makes controlling a trotting float feel natural, while using your fingers directly against the spool gives excellent control over the speed of the float.

Once you've become accustomed to fishing this way, it's an extremely enjoyable method.

Smoothness: 95/100

Build Quality

The Sheffield has a substantial, precision-made feel that suits its position above cheaper introductory centrepins.

The machined construction and large perforated spool give it a classic appearance while keeping unnecessary weight down. More importantly, everything feels designed around straightforward river fishing rather than unnecessary features.

Build quality: 94/100

For trotting a stick float or Avon-style float down a river, a centrepin gives you a level of direct line control that's difficult to replicate with a fixed-spool reel.

You can slow the float slightly by applying pressure to the spool, allow it to travel naturally with the current, or stop it completely when required.

That makes the Sheffield particularly attractive for chub fishing, but it's equally at home targeting roach and dace. There's also plenty of scope for using it when float fishing for barbel.

Line control: 93/100

Is It Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, although there's a learning curve.

Casting a centrepin is very different from using a conventional fixed-spool reel. Your first few sessions may involve more concentration than fishing, particularly when learning to control the spool during a cast.

Once mastered, however, centrepin fishing is remarkably simple and engaging.

Ease of use: 82/100

What We Like

• Exceptionally smooth-running spool
• Excellent control when trotting
• High-quality construction
• Ideal for traditional river fishing
• Suitable for everything from dace to barbel
• Classic centrepin appearance

Worth Knowing

The Sheffield is a specialist reel. If you want one reel for feeder fishing, long-range casting and general coarse fishing, a fixed-spool reel will be considerably more versatile.

It's also a relatively expensive introduction to centrepin fishing. Beginners who aren't sure whether they'll enjoy the method may prefer to start with something cheaper.

The Better Angler Verdict

The Okuma Sheffield Centre Pin S-1002 is best viewed as a quality tool for an established style of fishing rather than an all-purpose coarse reel.

Its smooth-running spool and excellent line control make it particularly effective for trotting rivers, where being able to control the float precisely can make a real difference.

If you regularly fish flowing water for chub, roach, dace or barbel and want to experience traditional centrepin fishing, the Sheffield is a strong choice.

Overall score: 91/100

Best for: Traditional river trotting for chub, roach, dace and barbel.