Description

PENN Fathom II Lever Drag Reel for Serious Offshore Fishing

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel is designed for saltwater anglers who need direct drag control, strong internal gearing and a compact conventional reel for demanding offshore work. Its single-speed design keeps operation simple, while the lever drag gives anglers a clear and repeatable way to adjust pressure during a fight.

PENN offers the PENN Fathom II lever drag reel in several sizes ranging from the narrow 10XN to the larger 60N. The models share core construction features, including a Full Metal Body, Dura-Drag system, stainless-steel gearing and a forged aluminum spool. However, gear ratio, maximum drag and line capacity vary, so buyers should select the exact model carefully.

Compact Offshore Performance

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel is made for anglers who want conventional-reel strength without automatically moving to a much larger big-game platform. PENN integrated the palm-side plate and frame to create a more compact shape while increasing structural strength.

This compact design can make the reel easier to hold during active fishing. It may be particularly useful when jigging, presenting live bait or fighting fish without leaving the rod in a fixed holder.

The range includes several narrow and standard-width models. Smaller sizes provide manageable handling and casting versatility, while larger models offer greater line capacity for deeper water and longer-running fish.

Compare more options in our conventional fishing reels collection. You can also browse our offshore fishing rods when assembling a complete saltwater setup.

Full Metal Body and Sideplate

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel uses a Full Metal Body and metal sideplate. This rigid construction helps maintain alignment between the spool, gears, bearings and drag system when substantial pressure is applied.

Reel flex can reduce power transfer during a heavy fight. A stable body allows more of the angler’s handle input to reach the drivetrain instead of being lost through movement in the frame.

The metal body also supports the reel’s compact design. PENN’s integrated palm-side plate and frame create a structure intended to feel smaller in the hand while retaining the strength needed for offshore work.

Metal construction still requires proper care. Saltwater residue should be removed after every trip, and the reel should be dried before storage.

Precise Lever Drag Control

The lever drag is the defining control on the PENN Fathom II lever drag reel. Moving the lever allows the angler to transition between lighter pressure, a chosen strike setting and stronger fighting pressure.

This provides a clear visual and physical reference. When trolling or fishing live bait, the reel can be operated at a lighter setting and then advanced after the fish takes the bait.

The lever should not be treated as a simple on-and-off control. Drag pressure should be tested with a scale and adjusted to suit the line, rod, leader, hooks and target species.

Maximum drag differs by model. The smaller 10XN and 15 sizes are listed at 20 lb, the 25N and 30 at 33 lb, and the 40N at 40 lb. PENN’s current comparison table does not display a maximum-drag figure for the 60N, so that specification should be confirmed before publication or purchase.

Smooth Dura-Drag Performance

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel uses PENN’s Dura-Drag system. This drag design is intended to provide smooth pressure and reduce hesitation during demanding fights.

Consistent drag is important when a strong fish changes speed or direction. Instead of locking abruptly, the system should allow line to leave the spool in a controlled manner when pressure exceeds the selected setting.

Drag performance depends on correct setup. Excessive pressure can damage the line, rod, knots or terminal tackle before the reel reaches its full rating.

After fishing, return the lever to a low-pressure position before long-term storage. This reduces unnecessary compression on the drag components.

Pull-to-Turn Preset Knob

PENN equips the reel with a Pull-to-Turn preset knob. The control must be pulled before it can be rotated, helping prevent accidental changes to the drag preset.

This is a practical feature because a preset knob can otherwise be moved unintentionally while handling the reel. Once the preferred range has been established, the locking action helps the angler maintain that setting.

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel therefore provides both an operating lever and a protected preset control. The preset determines the available drag range, while the lever moves through that range during fishing.

Always reduce the lever position before changing the preset. Adjusting the preset under heavy load may damage the system or produce an unsafe pressure setting.

Stainless-Steel Main and Pinion Gears

The drivetrain uses stainless-steel main and pinion gears. These components transfer force from the handle to the spool and are central to the reel’s ability to retrieve line under load.

Stainless-steel gearing provides strength for offshore fishing while supporting resistance to corrosion. It is especially valuable when the reel is used repeatedly in saltwater environments.

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel is available in several single-speed gear ratios. The 10XN, 15, 25N and 30 models use a 5.3:1 ratio, while the high-speed 40N uses 7.1:1 and the 60N uses 6.1:1.

Faster gearing retrieves line quickly, but it may require more effort under heavy load. Choose the model according to the fishing technique rather than selecting the highest ratio automatically.

Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel includes a forged and machined aluminum spool. Forging creates a strong starting structure, while machining produces the final dimensions and surface shape.

The spool must manage line tension during casting, retrieval and long runs from powerful fish. Aluminum provides a useful balance between rigidity and manageable weight.

Actual line capacity depends on the model and line diameter. Published figures are useful guides, but two lines with the same strength rating may not have identical thickness.

Braided line should be installed under firm, even tension. Loosely packed braid can dig into lower layers when strong drag is applied.

Five Stainless-Steel Bearings

Every currently listed model uses a five-bearing system. The bearings support spool rotation, handle movement and smooth drivetrain operation.

Bearing count alone does not determine reel quality. Frame rigidity, gear alignment, lubrication, spool design and drag construction also influence performance.

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel should not be deliberately submerged. Salt and sand can still affect moving components if the reel is not cleaned and stored correctly.

When operation becomes rough or noisy, the reel should be inspected rather than forced. Complex servicing is best completed by a qualified reel technician.

Choosing the Correct Size

Selecting the correct PENN Fathom II lever drag reel depends on line capacity, target species, fishing depth and preferred technique.

The 10XN and 15 models use a 5.3:1 gear ratio and provide up to 20 lb of maximum drag. They are compact choices for lighter offshore work, jigging and live-bait fishing.

The 25N and 30 models also use a 5.3:1 ratio but increase maximum drag to 33 lb. Their higher line capacities make them better suited to stronger fish and deeper presentations.

The 40N is a high-speed model with a 7.1:1 ratio and 40 lb maximum drag. It may suit applications where rapid line recovery is important.

The 60N uses a 6.1:1 ratio and offers substantially greater capacity. PENN’s current page does not show its maximum drag value, so avoid copying an unverified number from another model or retailer.

Recommended Fishing Applications

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel can be used for jigging, live-bait fishing, bottom fishing, trolling and selected billfish applications. The correct use depends heavily on the selected size.

Narrow models can be easier to handle during vertical jigging because the line has less room to build unevenly across the spool. Larger models provide more reserve for deep water or fish that make extended runs.

The 40N and 60N high-speed models may be especially useful when fast line recovery matters. Smaller 5.3:1 models offer a more balanced retrieve for general offshore techniques.

Check current regulations through NOAA Fisheries. Recognized big-game fishing rules and conservation guidance are also available from the International Game Fish Association.

Understanding the Single-Speed Design

This product page covers the single-speed PENN Fathom II lever drag reel, not the separate Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed series.

A single-speed reel uses one fixed gear ratio. It does not allow the angler to shift into a lower ratio during a fight. This simplifies the drivetrain and control layout.

Single-speed models can be excellent when the selected gear ratio already suits the intended fishing technique. High-speed models favor rapid retrieval, while moderate gearing offers a more balanced combination of speed and leverage.

Buyers who specifically need an instant high-to-low gear change should compare the separate Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed range rather than assuming every Fathom II lever drag includes that function.

Building a Balanced Offshore Setup

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel should be paired with a conventional rod rated for the selected line strength and expected drag pressure.

A jigging rod, live-bait rod and trolling rod may use very different actions and lengths. Choose the rod according to the technique rather than the reel size alone.

Leaders, hooks, swivels and knots must also match the expected load. Inspect every connection before fishing and after contact with teeth, rocks, wrecks or the boat.

Additional rigging supplies can be found in our fishing accessories collection.

Saltwater Care and Maintenance

After saltwater use, wipe or gently rinse the PENN Fathom II lever drag reel with fresh water. Avoid high-pressure spraying because it can force salt and moisture deeper into the reel.

Dry the reel thoroughly before storage. Inspect the spool, frame, handle, drag lever, reel foot and line for damage or residue.

Return the drag lever to a low-pressure position. Use only suitable fishing-reel lubricants and follow PENN’s maintenance instructions.

Internal drag, bearing or gear servicing should be completed by a qualified technician when the work exceeds basic cleaning and lubrication.

Verified Manufacturer Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the two-speed Fathom II reel?

No. This product page covers the single-speed Fathom II Lever Drag range. PENN sells the two-speed models as a separate series.

What drag system does it use?

It uses PENN’s Dura-Drag system with a lever-operated drag control.

What does the Pull-to-Turn knob do?

It helps prevent accidental changes to the drag preset by requiring the angler to pull the knob before turning it.

Are left-hand models available?

The models currently shown on PENN’s official United States product page are right-hand retrieve.

How many bearings does the reel have?

Every currently listed model uses a five stainless-steel bearing system.

Which models have the highest-speed gearing?

The 40N uses a 7.1:1 ratio, while the 60N uses a 6.1:1 ratio. The smaller models use 5.3:1 gearing.

Can it be used for jigging?

Yes. Narrow models such as the 10XN and 25N can be suitable for vertical jigging when paired with an appropriate rod and line.

Does it have a level wind?

No. The angler must guide line across the spool manually during retrieval.

Can braided line be used?

Yes. PENN publishes braid capacities for every currently listed size.

Precise Drag Control in a Compact Metal Platform

The PENN Fathom II lever drag reel combines simple single-speed operation with dependable offshore construction. Its Full Metal Body, Dura-Drag system, stainless-steel gears and protected preset control create a focused platform for serious saltwater fishing.

With sizes suited to jigging, live bait, bottom fishing and high-speed offshore retrieval, the PENN Fathom II lever drag reel gives anglers several ways to match the reel to their technique. The key is choosing the correct size, gear ratio and line capacity rather than treating every model as identical.