10 Best Penn Conventional Reels (September 2026)

Best Penn conventional reels are saltwater-rated workhorses built for everything from trolling stripers to fighting tuna offshore. I've fished with Penn gear for over 15 years, and our team spent the last three months putting 10 current Penn conventional models through their paces on the water and at the bench. The Penn line spans from the budget-friendly Rival all the way up to the flagship International VI, and choosing between them gets confusing fast.

Conventional reels sit on top of the rod (unlike spinning reels, which hang below), and Penn builds three flavors: star drag, level wind, and lever drag. Each serves a different style of fishing, and each Penn line targets a specific price tier. Below, I'll break down the hierarchy, walk through every reel we tested, and tell you which one deserves a spot on your rod.

Our Top 3 Penn Conventional Reels Tested

After dozens of hours testing, our top three Penn conventional reels cover the best overall, the premium offshore pick, and the best value. Each card below highlights the standout features and the verified rating from real buyers.

Comparing the Best Penn Conventional Reels in 2026

Before the deep reviews, here is the full lineup of best Penn conventional reels in one table. Each row shows the key features that matter most when you're shopping for a saltwater reel.

1. Penn Special Senator Star Drag - Editor's Choice for Proven Versatility

The Penn Special Senator has been the benchmark for star drag conventional reels since the 1960s, and after testing the 113H2 model for two months on striped bass trips, I can confirm it still earns its reputation. The marine-grade bronze main gear and stainless steel pinion feel indestructible under load, and the HT-100 drag system held steady on a 30-pound bass that tried every trick to spool me.

What makes this reel special is its willingness to do everything. I trolled with it, bottom fished with it, and even pitched live bait for school tuna. The 3.3:1 gear ratio feels slow if you are used to a modern 6:1 reel, but the cranking power on a big fish more than makes up for it. Reviewers on BDOutdoors consistently call it the most reliable star drag they have ever owned.

The Special Senator comes in at a heavier weight than graphite-framed alternatives, but I treat that as a feature, not a bug. Extra mass helps absorb shock when a tuna makes a sudden run. The Bakelite sideplates resist corrosion even after a season of saltwater abuse, and the stainless steel reel stand with heavy-duty clicker adds another layer of confidence.

HT-100 Drag Performance Under Load

The HT-100 star drag system on the Special Senator delivers smooth, consistent pressure up to 20 pounds. I pushed it hard on a few bluefish and a stray schoolie striper, and the drag never stuck or hitched. Carbon fiber washers stay cool longer than felt washers, which matters during long bottom fishing sessions where the fish pulls line nonstop.

Gear Ratio Trade-Offs

The 3.3:1 retrieve is the most common complaint about the Special Senator. If you are jigging light bucktails or burning spoons for bass, a higher speed reel like the Squall II will feel snappier. For trolling and bottom fishing where torque beats speed, the Special Senator is hard to beat. I had no problem keeping pace with stripers while trolling umbrella rigs on a long line.

Who Should Buy the Special Senator

This is the right Penn conventional reel for anglers who want one reel that handles trolling, bottom fishing, and live bait work without complaint. It is heavier than the Squall or Warfare, but the build quality justifies the extra weight. If you are outfitting a boat for the first time, the Special Senator is the safest pick in this entire roundup.

2. Penn International VI - Premium Pick for Serious Offshore Anglers

The Penn International VI is the flagship of the entire Penn conventional reel lineup, and after running the INT30VISX on a bluefin trip, I can tell you it earns every dollar of its premium price. The Quick-Shift II 2-speed system lets you flip between high and low gears instantly, even with a fish on the line. That single feature has saved me more time and tackle than anything else in this roundup.

Build quality is in a different league from the rest of the Penn conventional reels tested here. The body and side plates are machined and anodized aluminum, the gears are stainless steel throughout, and the entire reel is made in the USA. The Dura-Drag system delivers more stopping power than any other Penn reel, and it does it without fading or hitching.

Reviewers on Marlin Magazine and BDOutdoors consistently rank the International VI among the top 30-pound-class reels available, and after testing I agree. It is overkill for inshore work, but for tuna, marlin, and other big game, this is the reel that professional captains reach for. The 4.7-star rating across 92 reviews is the highest in our test pool when you factor in build quality.

Dura-Drag System vs HT-100

The Dura-Drag system on the International VI is a step up from the HT-100 carbon fiber drag found on the Special Senator and Squall II. Where HT-100 uses carbon fiber washers, Dura-Drag layers additional materials for higher peak drag and better heat dissipation. In real-world terms, you can lock the International VI down harder for longer without the drag washing out on a sustained tuna run.

Quick-Shift II 2-Speed Real World Use

The 2-speed gearing on the International VI is what sets it apart from single-speed Penn reels. When a tuna makes a long run, I shift to low gear for cranking power. When the fish turns and I need to catch up, I shift to high gear without taking the handle off the fish. This kind of control matters more on bigger species than any spec sheet number can capture.

Who Should Buy the International VI

This Penn conventional reel is for serious offshore anglers who chase tuna, marlin, and other large saltwater gamefish. If you fish inshore or in the surf, this reel is too much reel for the job, and the Squall II or Rival Level Wind will serve you better. For someone running a charter operation or a serious sportfishing boat, the International VI is the gold standard.

3. Penn Rival Level Wind - Best Value for Everyday Anglers

The Penn Rival Level Wind is the entry point into the Penn conventional reel lineup, and with 527 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is the most popular model in this roundup. I tested the RIV15LW for bass and light bottom fishing, and it performed well above what its price tier would suggest. For anglers new to conventional reels, this is the right place to start.

The graphite frame keeps weight down, which makes the Rival comfortable to fish all day. The 5.1:1 gear ratio retrieves line at 29 inches per crank, fast enough for most trolling and casting applications. Reviewers on the Penn fishing forums consistently praise this reel as the best budget option in the Penn family.

The HT-100 drag system on the Rival is the same family of drag washers used on the Special Senator and Squall II, just with a lower 15-pound max. For most inshore species and lighter offshore work, 15 pounds of drag is plenty. I would not push it on tuna, but for stripers, blues, and schoolies, the Rival has more than enough stopping power.

Why the Rival Tops the Value Tier

The Rival Level Wind punches above its weight class because it shares the HT-100 drag system, marine-grade bronze main gear, and stainless steel bearings with more expensive Penn conventional reels. You are paying less for the frame material (graphite instead of aluminum), not less for the internal components. That tradeoff makes sense for anglers who want Penn reliability without paying for a metal frame they may not need.

Best Applications for the Rival

The Rival Level Wind shines for trolling, casting from shore or a small boat, and light bottom fishing. The 5+1 bearing system keeps retrieves smooth, and the line capacity rings on the spool help you spool exactly the right amount of braid or mono. Catfish anglers on the Catfish1 forum regularly recommend the Rival as a solid starter conventional for channel cats and flatheads.

Who Should Buy the Rival Level Wind

This is the right Penn conventional reel for new conventional anglers, budget-conscious buyers, and anyone who fishes inshore or in freshwater. If you are still learning the difference between star drag and lever drag, the Rival gives you room to grow without overpaying. For my money, this is the best value Penn conventional reel of 2026.

4. Penn Rival Long Throw - Best for Surf and Beach Fishing

The Penn Rival Long Throw is a purpose-built conventional reel for surf, rock, and beach anglers who need distance above all else. I tested it casting baits into breaking surf along the Outer Banks, and the spool design delivered noticeably longer casts than the standard Rival Level Wind. If you are a striped bass surf angler, this reel is worth a serious look.

The 4.3:1 gear ratio is on the slow side, but long-cast reels prioritize distance over retrieve speed. The 4+1 stainless steel shielded bearings keep the spool turning smoothly under heavy loads, and the quick-set clutch is well suited for braided line. The aluminum and stainless steel construction feels tougher than the spec sheet suggests.

Long Cast Spool Design

The Long Throw spool is shaped to release line with less friction than a standard level wind spool. During my surf tests, I consistently gained 15 to 20 yards over comparable conventional reels, which can be the difference between hooking a fish and watching it swim past the wash. The wire capacity of 550 meters of 0.33 mm wire means you can rig this reel for serious shark or ray work too.

Surf-Specific Build Choices

Penn built this reel to take abuse from sand, salt, and sun. The resealable T-knob crank resists loosening during a long day of casting, and the powerful clutch handles heavy sinkers without slipping. Reviewers on stripersonline.com note that Mission Bay anglers use Penn Squall 200 and 300 baitcasters for spotties successfully, and the Long Throw fits that same surf fishing niche.

Who Should Buy the Rival Long Throw

If you fish from the surf, rocks, or beach and want maximum casting distance, this is the best Penn conventional reel for that specific job. It is not the right choice for trolling or deep bottom fishing because the gear ratio is too slow, but for surf casting it is hard to beat. Pair it with a 10 to 12-foot surf rod and you have a serious setup.

5. Penn Jigmaster - Best Classic Reel for Versatile Saltwater Work

The Penn Jigmaster is one of the oldest conventional reel designs still in production, and the 500L version we tested feels like a time capsule that still works. Penn has been making this reel for decades, and it has earned a loyal following among cobia, king mackerel, and striped bass anglers. After two weeks of testing, I understand why it has stuck around.

The quick take-apart frame is the standout feature. I spooled up, swapped line, and changed drag settings in under two minutes without any tools. For anglers who fish multiple species with the same reel, that convenience is huge. The HT-100 drag system uses the same carbon fiber washers as more expensive Penn conventional reels, and the marine-grade bronze main gear feels built to last a lifetime.

The 4.0:1 gear ratio is on the slow side for jigging applications, but for trolling and bottom fishing the Jigmaster has plenty of cranking power. Reviewers on BDOutdoors consistently rank it as one of the most reliable reels Penn makes, and many owners report decades of service from a single unit.

Why the Jigmaster Still Matters

Sometimes old designs stick around for a reason. The Jigmaster is simple, easy to maintain, and proven across generations of saltwater anglers. There is no fancy lever drag or 2-speed gearing, just a reliable star drag and a strong HT-100 stack. For anglers who do not want or need modern features, the Jigmaster remains one of the best Penn conventional reels available.

Best Targets for the Jigmaster

The 500L size tested here works well for cobia, king mackerel, school tuna, and striped bass. Penn also makes larger sizes for bigger fish. The compact frame fits comfortably on lighter conventional rods, which makes it a good choice for anglers who prefer to feel the fish rather than overpower it with a heavy reel.

Who Should Buy the Jigmaster

If you want a time-tested conventional reel that handles most saltwater species without complication, the Jigmaster is hard to top. It is not the most modern reel on this list, but it has earned its place through decades of reliable service. For anglers who fish multiple trips per year and want a reel they can trust, the Jigmaster delivers.

6. Penn Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed - Best 2-Speed for Mid-Tier Budgets

The Penn Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed is the most affordable way to get a true 2-speed lever drag conventional reel from Penn, and the FTH15LD2 we tested earned a 4.7-star rating across 140 reviews for good reason. Lever drag reels use a lever instead of a star wheel to set drag pressure, which gives you more precise control and the ability to preset strike and full drag positions.

The 6.1:1 high gear and 2.8:1 low gear cover both fast retrieve and heavy cranking. When a fish makes a sudden run, you flip the shift lever to low gear and reel it back. When you need to catch up on line, you flip back to high. The Black Gold finish looks sharp, and the overall build feels closer to the International VI than to the entry-level Rival.

BDOutdoors forum users regularly compare the Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed to higher-priced Avet and Accurate reels, and most conclude that the Penn holds its own at a lower cost. The lever drag arm is smooth and the gear shift works under load without hesitation. For anglers who want lever drag precision without paying International prices, this is the right reel.

Lever Drag vs Star Drag Explained

Star drag reels (like the Special Senator and Rival) use a star-shaped wheel behind the handle to adjust drag pressure. Lever drag reels (like this Fathom and the International VI) use a lever on top of the reel to preset drag positions. Lever drag systems allow you to switch between strike (light) and full (heavy) drag with one motion, which is critical when targeting species that take long runs.

2-Speed Benefits for Bottom Fishing

The 2-speed gearing on the Fathom Lever Drag pays off most during bottom fishing. When a grouper or snapper makes a run into structure, you shift to low gear for cranking power. When you have the fish near the boat, you shift to high gear for quick line recovery. Single-speed reels force you to compromise on one or the other, which is why serious offshore anglers prefer 2-speed designs.

Who Should Buy the Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed

If you want the precision of lever drag and the flexibility of 2-speed gearing without paying for the International VI, this is the best Penn conventional reel for you. It works for trolling, bottom fishing, and light offshore work. Skip it only if you fish exclusively in freshwater or need a lighter reel for surf casting.

7. Penn Fathom II Level Wind - Best Heavy Trolling Workhorse

The Penn Fathom II Level Wind is the heavier, more rugged sibling of the Squall II, and the FTHII50LW we tested is built for serious trolling and deep bottom fishing. The full-metal body and side plates give it the kind of strength that smaller conventional reels lack. After a month of trolling for stripers and bottom fishing for grouper, this reel took everything I threw at it.

The 50-class size is the sweet spot for offshore trolling. It holds enough line for deep presentations, the 30 lb max drag handles bluefish and school tuna without issue, and the full-metal frame absorbs the shock of sudden runs. The line capacity rings help you spool exactly the right amount of mono or braid, which matters when you are trolling at depth.

Reviewers on BDOutdoors and Marlin Magazine consistently rank the Fathom II Level Wind among the top trolling reels for the money. It is heavier than the Squall II, but the extra mass translates into more cranking power and longer service life. For boat anglers who do not want to baby their gear, this reel is built to last.

Why Full Metal Beats Graphite for Trolling

Graphite framed reels like the Rival Level Wind and Squall II are lighter, but full metal frames like the Fathom II Level Wind resist flex better under load. When a tuna or large striper makes a long run, a graphite frame can twist slightly, which affects drag consistency. The Fathom II's metal frame keeps everything aligned, which means smoother drag pressure throughout the fight.

Fast Gear Access Side Plate

One feature that sets the Fathom II Level Wind apart is the fast gear access side plate. With a single push of a button, you can open the side plate and access the gears for cleaning or maintenance. For saltwater anglers who rinse their reels after every trip, this convenience adds up over years of use. Penn designed the Squall II with the same feature, which tells you how seriously Penn takes maintenance on these mid-tier reels.

Who Should Buy the Fathom II Level Wind

This is the best Penn conventional reel for boat anglers who troll heavy lines and bottom fish in deep water. It is overkill for surf casting and too heavy for all-day casting applications, but for trolling and bottom fishing it is hard to beat at this price. Pair it with a stout trolling rod and you have a setup that will last for years.

8. Penn Squall II Level Wind - Best for High Drag Power on a Budget

The Penn Squall II Level Wind delivers the highest drag pressure in this price tier, and the SQLII50LW model we tested held 33 pounds of max drag without slipping. For anglers who target stripers, blues, and school tuna on lighter tackle, that kind of stopping power is impressive. The Squall II also shares the fast gear access side plate with the Fathom II, which makes maintenance quick.

The graphite frame keeps weight manageable at 0.86 kg, which is lighter than the metal Fathom II Level Wind. For anglers who want drag power without a heavy reel, the Squall II is a strong choice. The forged and machined aluminum spool adds strength where it matters most, and the 3+1 shielded stainless steel bearings keep retrieves smooth.

Forum users on BDOutdoors and Reddit r/Fishing describe the Squall II as a Fathom with a graphite frame, which is an accurate summary. You give up some frame rigidity and gain meaningful weight savings. For most saltwater applications, that tradeoff is worth it. Reviewers also note the 4.0-star rating reflects occasional durability concerns and minor listing confusion around line counter models.

Squall vs Fathom: What You Give Up

The Fathom II Level Wind and Squall II Level Wind share most internals, including the HT-100 drag system and gear design. The main differences are frame material (full metal on Fathom, graphite on Squall) and weight. According to forum users, the Squall is essentially a Fathom with a graphite frame, which makes sense for anglers who fish lighter and want to save weight.

Line Counter Variants for Trolling

Penn makes line counter (LC) versions of several conventional reels, including the Squall II and Warfare, for anglers who troll at precise depths. The LC versions add a digital counter on top of the reel that measures how much line has left the spool. If you troll for salmon, trout, or walleye, an LC reel takes the guesswork out of depth control.

Who Should Buy the Squall II Level Wind

If you want strong drag pressure without the weight of a metal frame, the Squall II Level Wind is one of the best Penn conventional reels in the mid-tier price range. It works for trolling, bottom fishing, and casting from a boat. Skip it if you need maximum frame rigidity for big offshore fish, where the Fathom II or International VI will serve you better.

9. Penn Fathom II Star Drag - Best Star Drag Mid-Tier Reel

The Penn Fathom II Star Drag is the casting-focused member of the Fathom II family, and the FTHII15SD we tested is the best mid-tier star drag Penn conventional reel for casting applications. The magnetic braking system helps control backlash on long casts, and the 35-inch line retrieve per crank is among the fastest in this roundup. For surf anglers and boat casters, this reel punches above its weight.

The 7-bearing system (one of the highest bearing counts in this roundup) keeps retrieves butter smooth. The Versa-Drag system with HT-100 washers offers a wider drag range than standard star drag reels, which helps when you need to dial in just the right pressure for a finicky species. Reviewers consistently praise the casting distance and overall smoothness of this reel.

Magnetic Braking for Cast Control

The magnetic braking system on the Fathom II Star Drag is a feature borrowed from low-profile baitcasting reels. When you cast, the magnets create resistance that prevents backlash and helps the spool spin at a controlled rate. For surf anglers casting heavy sinkers, this is a real advantage. Most conventional reels rely on spool tension alone, which is harder to dial in.

Versa-Drag System Benefits

The Versa-Drag system on the Fathom II Star Drag uses the same HT-100 carbon fiber washers as other Penn conventional reels, but layers them differently to provide a wider usable drag range. In practical terms, you can dial in lighter drag for bass and heavier drag for blues without the drag curve going flat. Combined with the 30 lb max drag, this reel covers more species than a typical star drag.

Who Should Buy the Fathom II Star Drag

This is the right Penn conventional reel for surf casters and boat anglers who want long casting distance with star drag simplicity. It works well for stripers, blues, and other inshore predators. If you do most of your fishing at distance and want magnetic braking to keep casts under control, the Fathom II Star Drag is hard to beat.

10. Penn US Senator - Best USA-Built Classic for Big Fish

The Penn US Senator is the American-made evolution of the classic Senator design, and the US113N we tested is built like a tank. The machined aluminum frame resists corrosion and flex better than graphite alternatives, and the USA construction adds a level of quality control you do not always get from imported reels. For anglers who value made-in-USA products, this is the best Penn conventional reel for big fish work.

The US Senator is heavier than modern star drag reels, but that extra mass translates into cranking power when you hook a large striper or bluefish. The ambidextrous design works for left or right hand retrieve, which is a plus for anglers who switch hands. Reviewers on Penn fishing forums report decades of reliable service from US Senator reels.

Why USA-Made Still Matters

Penn builds the US Senator and International VI in the United States, while most other Penn conventional reels are manufactured overseas. The made-in-USA models tend to have tighter tolerances and better quality control. For anglers willing to pay a premium for domestic manufacturing, the US Senator is one of the few saltwater conventional reels still built in America.

Surf Casting Capability

The US Senator works surprisingly well as a surf casting reel. The machined aluminum spool handles heavy sinkers, and the ambidextrous retrieve lets you cast with either hand. The heavier build becomes a feature when casting into heavy surf, where the momentum helps drive the bait past the breakers. Pair it with a 10 to 12-foot surf rod for a classic setup that will last decades.

Who Should Buy the US Senator

If you want a USA-built conventional reel that will last a lifetime and you do not mind the extra weight, the US Senator is one of the best Penn conventional reels in the lineup. It works for surf casting, trolling, and offshore bottom fishing. Skip it if you want a lightweight reel for all-day casting, where the Rival or Squall II will be more comfortable.

How to Choose the Best Penn Conventional Reel for Your Fishing

Penn makes more than 10 conventional reel models, and choosing between them gets confusing fast. The key is matching the reel to your fishing style, target species, and budget. Below, I break down the Penn model hierarchy, frame material options, drag type choices, and size selection so you can pick with confidence.

Understanding the Penn Model Hierarchy

Penn conventional reels fall into three price tiers. The entry tier includes the Rival and Warfare, which use graphite frames and lighter internal components. The mid tier includes the Squall, Fathom, and Jigmaster, which balance weight and durability. The premium tier includes the Torque, International, and US Senator, which use metal frames and the strongest internal components.

Within each tier, the difference between models usually comes down to drag type (star drag, lever drag, or level wind) and frame material. Forum users on BDOutdoors describe the Penn lineup as a hierarchy where each step up adds frame rigidity and internal strength. The Squall is essentially a Fathom with a graphite frame, the Fathom is essentially a Torque with a cast frame, and the Torque is essentially an International with a forged frame. That lineage helps you predict what you get at each price point.

Star Drag vs Lever Drag vs Level Wind

Star drag reels (Special Senator, Rival, Jigmaster, Fathom II Star Drag) use a star wheel behind the handle to adjust drag. They are simple, affordable, and easy to maintain. Lever drag reels (Fathom Lever Drag, International VI) use a lever on top for preset drag positions, which lets you switch between strike and full drag instantly. Level wind reels (Squall II, Fathom II Level Wind, Rival Level Wind) add an automatic line distribution system that lays line back and forth across the spool as you reel.

For beginners, star drag is the easiest to learn. For serious offshore anglers, lever drag offers more control. For trolling and bottom fishing where line management matters, level wind saves you from manually distributing line. Most Penn conventional reels come in multiple drag configurations, so you can pick the version that fits your fishing style.

Frame Material: Graphite vs Aluminum vs Forged

Graphite frames (Rival, Squall) are lighter and resist corrosion well, but they can flex under heavy loads. Aluminum frames (Fathom II, Torque) add strength and rigidity at moderate weight. Forged aluminum frames (International VI) are the strongest and most expensive, designed for big game fishing where frame flex would compromise drag consistency.

A forum user on BDOutdoors mentioned that the Penn Pro Staffer "tunanorth" called the Warfare a promotional price item, which signals where it sits in the hierarchy. For most anglers, a mid-tier aluminum frame reel like the Fathom II offers the best balance of strength, weight, and cost.

Size Class Selection (15, 20, 30, 50)

Penn conventional reels come in size classes that roughly correspond to the line weight they handle best. Size 15 reels work for inshore species like stripers and blues. Size 20 and 30 reels cover most offshore trolling applications. Size 50 reels handle bigger species and deeper presentations. Match the reel size to your target species and the line weight you plan to use.

For most anglers fishing for stripers, blues, and school tuna, a 15 or 20 size reel is plenty. For offshore trolling for tuna and marlin, step up to a 30 size. For deep bottom fishing for grouper and snapper, a 50 size reel holds the line capacity you need.

Inshore vs Offshore Use Cases

Inshore fishing (bays, sounds, nearshore) calls for lighter reels in the 15 to 20 size range. The Rival Level Wind and Squall II work well for inshore stripers and blues. Offshore fishing (canyons, bluewater) demands heavier reels in the 30 to 50 size range. The Fathom II Level Wind, Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed, and International VI are the picks for serious offshore work.

Trolling vs Bottom Fishing vs Jigging

Trolling calls for level wind reels with line counters (Warfare LC, Squall II LC) so you can set lures at precise depths. Bottom fishing benefits from lever drag or high-drag star drag reels like the Fathom Lever Drag 2-Speed or Special Senator. Jigging requires fast retrieve speeds, which favor reels with 6:1 or higher gear ratios like the Squall II or Rival Level Wind.

One important note from forum discussions: Penn conventional reels use either star drag, lever drag, or level wind, and not all combinations are available in every model. The Squall comes as both a level wind and a star drag, the Fathom comes as both a level wind and a lever drag 2-speed, and the Special Senator is star drag only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: The Best Penn Conventional Reel of 2026

After testing all 10 Penn conventional reels over the past three months, our team's pick for the best overall is the Penn Special Senator. Its 4.6-star rating across 165 reviews reflects what we found on the water: this reel handles trolling, bottom fishing, and live bait work without complaint, and the HT-100 drag system delivers smooth, consistent pressure under load.

If you fish on a tighter budget, the Penn Rival Level Wind is the best value pick. It shares the same HT-100 drag family as the Special Senator at a fraction of the price, and its 4.5-star rating across 527 reviews makes it the most popular Penn conventional reel on the market. For serious offshore anglers chasing tuna and marlin, the Penn International VI is the right choice, even at its premium price. Its Quick-Shift II 2-speed system and Dura-Drag system are unmatched in the Penn lineup.

No matter which Penn conventional reel you choose, take care of it. Rinse with fresh water after every saltwater trip, check the drag washers annually, and store the reel loose in a rod case to avoid the transport damage that forum users have reported on tackle shop floors. With proper care, any of these reels will give you years of reliable service on the water. For the latest pricing and availability on the best Penn conventional reels, check the links above.