I have all different types of reels, however this question is just for those folks who use Penn reels. What do you guys prefer for big reds, blacktips, cobia, tarpon, kings when using spinning tackle?
Spinfisher 550’s, 750’s, 950’s. I feel like my 550sm on a 7ft medium/heavy custom uglystick has always been fine but I was just curious what kinda of balance other guys looked for between going lighter for more sport or heavier to muscle them in.
Debating on picking up a couple 750sm’s from a guy for cheap.
Thanks
I still use a 440sg for inshore, and had a 750ssm that I used for surf fishing for years. Caught a lot of big reds and sharks, no problem.
I recently got a 560 Slammer on a 7’ med/hvy for nearshore stuff, haven’t had the chance to catch any monsters yet but so far I’ve pulled in a few 3-4 ft sharks and a 35" red with no problems. It doesn’t hold as much line as the 750, but spooled with 40 lb braid it’s still more than 750 held with 20 lb mono, it’s lighter, and has more drag. (also more $ though). Looking forward to putting it to a real test this spring!
That said, i still think the spinfishers are hard to beat for durability and value. Everyone loves the Battles though, I just don’t have one so can’t really say how it would compare but also seems like a great reel for the $. More drag and even cheaper than the SSM’s in a lightweight package.
I would say if you can get a good deal on the 750’s, go for it. They’re great all-around reels and will last forever. But, I think they are on their way to being obsolete if the Battles turn out to be halfway durable so my benchmark would be if I could pick up a comparable Battle for less or not.
my .02, but you know what they say about opinions…
I don’t have any experience with the larger spinfishers but my 440 ssg is my all time favorite reel. I’ve caught everything from sheepshead to +30" reds on it.
Three-fourths of the Earth’s surface is water, and one-fourth is land. It is quite clear that the good Lord intended us to spend triple the amount of time fishing as taking care of the lawn.