Description
PENN Squall II Offshore Lever Drag Reel for Powerful Trolling
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel is designed for anglers who need dependable drag control, substantial line capacity and strong gearing without the extra weight of a full-metal conventional reel. PENN combines a one-piece graphite frame with stainless-steel gears, an aluminum spool and its Dura-Drag system to create a versatile platform for saltwater trolling and offshore fishing.
Available in several sizes and gear-ratio configurations, the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel can be selected for nearshore trolling, live-bait fishing, bottom fishing and heavier conventional applications. The range includes compact narrow-spool options, standard-width models and a high-speed 40N configuration developed for rapid line recovery.
Lightweight Offshore Performance
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel is built for anglers who want the control of a conventional lever drag without carrying an unnecessarily heavy reel. PENN describes the range as a powerful but lightweight and ergonomic package designed for serious saltwater use.
The family covers sizes from 25N to 60, allowing anglers to choose a model based on line capacity, target species and preferred retrieve speed. Smaller models suit nearshore trolling and active fishing, while larger sizes provide more line reserve for deeper water and stronger offshore fish.
The reel’s simple single-speed operation also keeps the control layout straightforward. Anglers can concentrate on drag position, line tension and rod control without managing a two-speed shift system.
Compare similar options in our conventional fishing reels collection. You can also browse our offshore fishing rods when assembling a complete setup.
Lightweight One-Piece Graphite Frame
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel uses a one-piece graphite frame and graphite palm sideplate. Graphite keeps the body lighter than a comparable full-metal reel while providing natural resistance to corrosion.
A one-piece structure helps support the gears, spool and drag system under pressure. Maintaining alignment is important because excessive frame movement can reduce efficient power transfer during retrieval.
The palm-side design also improves handling when the rod is held throughout a fishing session. This may be useful during live-bait fishing, jigging or stand-up trolling where the outfit is not left in a holder continuously.
Graphite should still be protected from hard impact. The material is designed to handle fishing pressure but can be damaged by being dropped, crushed or overtightened in an unsuitable reel seat.
Precise Lever Drag Control
The lever drag gives the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel a clear operating range from free spool through strike and higher fighting pressure.
This visible control is useful when trolling or fishing live bait. The reel can be operated at reduced pressure while presenting the bait, then advanced after a fish takes line and becomes securely connected.
The strike setting should be established before fishing with a reliable drag scale. Pulling line by hand gives only an approximate impression and can lead to an excessively heavy setting.
Maximum drag differs between models. The correct working pressure should always be matched to the rod, line, leader, knots and hooks rather than automatically using the reel’s highest available output.
PENN Dura-Drag System
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel uses PENN’s Dura-Drag system to provide smooth, controlled pressure during prolonged fights.
A consistent drag helps prevent sudden shock from reaching the line and terminal tackle when a fish changes direction or accelerates. The spool should release line smoothly once the selected pressure is exceeded.
Dura-Drag construction is particularly valuable during trolling because fish often strike while the rod is already under load. Smooth startup can reduce the chance of breaking a leader or pulling hooks during the initial run.
Return the drag lever to a low-pressure position before long-term storage. Leaving the drag fully compressed can place unnecessary pressure on the internal components.
Pull-to-Turn Preset Knob
PENN equips the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel with a Pull-to-Turn preset knob. The knob must be pulled before it can be adjusted, helping reduce accidental changes to the drag range.
This is useful when handling the reel on a moving boat or transporting the outfit. Once the preferred strike pressure has been set, the locking action helps preserve that adjustment.
The preset control determines the overall drag range, while the lever moves through that range during fishing. These two controls perform different functions and should not be confused.
Always reduce the drag lever before changing the preset. Forcing an adjustment while the system is heavily loaded can create excessive pressure or damage.
Stainless-Steel Main and Pinion Gears
The drivetrain uses stainless-steel main and pinion gears. These components give the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel the strength needed to retrieve line while trolling, bottom fishing or fighting powerful saltwater species.
Stainless steel offers a useful combination of strength and resistance to corrosion. It is particularly appropriate for equipment regularly exposed to salt spray and humid marine conditions.
Different models use different gear ratios. Sizes 25N, 30 and the standard 40 use 5.3:1 gearing, while the 50 and 60 use a lower 4.8:1 ratio. The 40N High Speed model increases retrieval speed with a 7.1:1 ratio.
Even strong gears should not be used to pull directly against an immovable snag. Excessive loading can damage the rod, line, reel seat or drivetrain.
Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel includes a forged and machined aluminum spool designed to combine rigidity with manageable rotating weight.
The spool carries substantial monofilament or braided-line capacity, depending on the selected model. This is important when trolling at distance or targeting fish capable of long runs.
Line should be installed under firm and even tension. Loosely packed braid can dig into lower layers when drag pressure is applied, making retrieval or line release difficult.
Avoid overfilling the spool. Leaving suitable clearance helps maintain smooth operation and reduces the chance of loose line contacting the frame.
Convenient Line-Capacity Rings
Line-capacity rings give the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel a quick visual reference for the amount of line remaining on the spool.
This can be useful when a fish makes a long run or when a large amount of line has been deployed behind a trolling boat. The rings help the angler recognize when available capacity is becoming limited.
They can also assist when dividing line between multiple reels or checking whether the spool has been filled evenly.
The rings are only a visual guide. Actual capacity varies with line diameter, packing tension and the amount of backing installed.
Standard, Power and High-Speed Gearing
The range gives anglers several retrieve characteristics. The 5.3:1 models provide a balanced combination of speed and leverage for general offshore use.
The 50 and 60 sizes use a lower 4.8:1 gear ratio, giving the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel additional mechanical advantage for heavier tackle and larger fish.
The 40N High Speed uses a 7.1:1 ratio. This model is designed for anglers who need to recover line rapidly when jigging, checking baits or keeping tension on a fast-moving fish.
Higher speed does not always mean greater power. Choose the ratio according to the fishing technique instead of selecting the fastest option automatically.
Choosing the Correct Squall II Size
Selecting the correct PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel depends on line capacity, target species, fishing depth and retrieve preference.
The narrow 25N provides a compact spool and up to 30 lb of listed maximum drag. It may suit anglers who want strong drag in a manageable offshore reel.
The 30 and standard 40 provide increased capacity while retaining 5.3:1 gearing. The 40N High Speed focuses on faster retrieval and a narrow spool profile.
The 50 and 60 sizes provide the heaviest published braid capacities and lower 4.8:1 gearing. They may be better suited to larger fish, heavier line and deeper offshore applications.
Do not choose the largest model automatically. A smaller reel can create a more comfortable and balanced outfit when its line capacity is already sufficient.
Recommended Fishing Applications
PENN specifically positions the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel for nearshore trolling for species such as dolphin fish and king mackerel. The broader size range also supports bottom fishing, live-bait fishing and heavier offshore work.
The high-speed 40N may be useful for techniques requiring rapid retrieval, while the larger 50 and 60 models provide greater capacity for strong-running fish.
The lever drag gives anglers repeatable control when trolling baits at a selected strike setting. The graphite construction also keeps the outfit more manageable during active fishing.
Before targeting regulated species, check current rules through NOAA Fisheries. Big-game angling guidance is also available from the International Game Fish Association.
Building a Balanced Offshore Setup
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel should be paired with a conventional or trolling rod rated for the selected line class and expected drag pressure.
Choose a rod according to the fishing method. Nearshore trolling, vertical jigging and deep bottom fishing require different rod lengths, actions and guide systems.
Leaders, hooks, swivels and knots must match the expected load. A reel capable of more than 20 lb of drag can overload weak terminal connections quickly.
Additional leaders, tools and rigging supplies can be found in our fishing accessories collection.
Saltwater Care and Maintenance
After each saltwater trip, wipe or gently rinse the PENN Squall II offshore 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 frame, spool, lever, handle, reel foot and line for salt buildup or damage.
Return the lever to a low-pressure position before storing the reel. Use only reel-compatible lubricants and follow PENN’s maintenance instructions.
Internal drag, bearing and gear servicing should be completed by a qualified reel technician when it exceeds routine cleaning.
Verified Manufacturer Specifications
| Model | Size | Gear Ratio | Retrieve | Maximum Drag | Bearings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SQLII25NLD | 25N | 5.3:1 | Right | 30 lb | 5 total listed |
| SQLII30LD | 30 | 5.3:1 | Right | 12.7 lb displayed by PENN; confirm before publishing | 5 total listed |
| SQLII40LD | 40 | 5.3:1 | Right | 20 lb | 5 total listed |
| SQLII40NLDHS | 40N High Speed | 7.1:1 | Right | 20 lb | 5 total listed |
| SQLII50LD | 50 | 4.8:1 | Right | 27 lb | 5 total listed |
| SQLII60LD | 60 | 4.8:1 | Right | 33 lb | 5 total listed |
Verified Line Capacities
| Model | Monofilament Capacity | Braid Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| SQLII25NLD | 330/20, 300/25, 245/30 yd/lb | 675/30, 555/40, 475/50 yd/lb |
| SQLII30LD | 405/25, 330/30, 255/40 yd/lb | 635/50, 525/65, 455/80 yd/lb |
| SQLII40LD | 400/30, 310/40, 230/50 yd/lb | 770/50, 640/65, 555/80 yd/lb |
| SQLII40NLDHS | 715/16, 600/20, 410/30 yd/lb | 1500/20, 1125/30, 920/40 yd/lb |
| SQLII50LD | 410/40, 305/50, 270/60 yd/lb | 845/65, 730/80, 625/100 yd/lb |
| SQLII60LD | 355/50, 315/60, 225/80 yd/lb | 860/80, 735/100, 610/130 yd/lb |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Squall II Lever Drag a two-speed reel?
No. The models on this page are single-speed reels. PENN sells a separate Squall Lever Drag 2-Speed range.
What sizes are available?
PENN currently lists 25N, 30, 40, 40N High Speed, 50 and 60 models.
What drag system does it use?
It uses PENN’s Dura-Drag system with lever-operated pressure control.
What does Pull-to-Turn mean?
The preset knob must be pulled before it can be rotated, helping prevent accidental drag changes.
Which model has the fastest gear ratio?
The 40N High Speed uses a 7.1:1 ratio.
Which model has the greatest listed drag?
The size 60 is listed with up to 33 lb of maximum drag.
Does it have a level wind?
No. Anglers must guide line manually across the spool during retrieval.
Can braided line be used?
Yes. PENN publishes braided-line capacities for every model.
Are left-hand models available?
The currently listed models use right-hand retrieve.
Lightweight Construction With Serious Offshore Control
The PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel combines a lightweight graphite frame with stainless-steel gears, a machined aluminum spool and PENN’s Dura-Drag system. It provides serious conventional-reel capability without the weight associated with many full-metal offshore reels.
With models ranging from the compact 25N to the high-capacity 60, plus a dedicated 7.1:1 high-speed option, the PENN Squall II offshore lever drag reel can be matched to nearshore trolling, live bait, bottom fishing and heavier offshore applications.
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