Any disadvantage with older reels? - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

-scallywag- · 06-21-2010, 03:57 PM

I'm only familiar with the two penn reels and they are really undergunned for targeting trophy pelagics....small drags and low gear raitos (2.5:1 and 4:1) are probably better for catfish, rockfish or maybe halibut in the bay.

modern engineering, machining and materials have made it possible to have much stronger reels in the same size, but lighter package. My favorite budget kayak reels (under 120 new) for LJ are the Sealine 30,40,50/ penn 535, 545,555/ shimano TLD star and the TLD 15 leverdrag...all can be found used for $60-80.

I would also stay away from the older penn 500/501's although alot of guys swear by them....they are just not built to fish 40lb mono or the braided lines we use and they are very close to the price of the other reels I mentioned. They make good sabiki reels tho!

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06-21-2010, 03:57 PM	#6
-scallywag- Banned Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: on the road... Posts: 598	I'm only familiar with the two penn reels and they are really undergunned for targeting trophy pelagics....small drags and low gear raitos (2.5:1 and 4:1) are probably better for catfish, rockfish or maybe halibut in the bay. modern engineering, machining and materials have made it possible to have much stronger reels in the same size, but lighter package. My favorite budget kayak reels (under 120 new) for LJ are the Sealine 30,40,50/ penn 535, 545,555/ shimano TLD star and the TLD 15 leverdrag...all can be found used for $60-80. I would also stay away from the older penn 500/501's although alot of guys swear by them....they are just not built to fish 40lb mono or the braided lines we use and they are very close to the price of the other reels I mentioned. They make good sabiki reels tho!