PENN Conventional Reels: Star-Drag, Lever-Drag and Level-Wind Buying Guide (2025–2026)
Review method: Researched editorial buying analysis based on pennfishing.com product pages and listing data, dated press coverage and retailer specification sheets — not personal field testing. PENN does not publish weight or line per crank for most conventional reels, and it publishes a single maximum-drag figure rather than strike/full settings. Where PENN's own tables look inconsistent, we say so rather than guess.
← Conventional Reels Directory · Feature table · Model specifications · 2025–2026 updates · Company overview · New level winds · Flagship · Fathom II · Value lines
PENN Conventional Reels — features in separate columns
PENN sells every major conventional format: big-game lever drag (International), machined jigging and live-bait reels (Torque, Fathom II), graphite value reels (Squall II) and level-wind trolling and bottom reels (Warfare II, Rival II, Fathom II LW).
| Family | Role | Drag type | Speeds | Body | Max drag | Bearings | Price range | Generation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warfare II Level Wind | Value trolling and bottom | Star, level wind | 1 | Graphite | 15 lb | 3 | $139.99–$169.99 | Listed Nov 2025 |
| Rival II Level Wind | Budget trolling and bottom | Star, level wind | 1 | Graphite | Not found | Not found | $94.99–$139.99 | Listed Sep 2025 |
| 250th Anniversary International VISW | Collector big-game reel | Lever | 2 | Machined aluminum | Not found | Not found | $999.95 | July 2026 |
| International VI | Big-game trolling, stand-up | Lever | 2 | Machined aluminum | 40–100 lb | 5–6 | $609.95–$1,469.95 | About 2016 |
| Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed | Jigging, live bait, tuna | Lever | 2 | Machined aluminum | 20–40 lb | 6 | $599.95–$659.95 | Not found |
| Fathom II Star Drag | Bottom, jigging, live bait | Star | 1 | Full metal | 30 lb | 7 | $299.95–$349.95 | About 2018–2019 |
| Fathom II Lever Drag / 2-Speed | Tuna, live bait, trolling | Lever | 1 or 2 | Full metal | 20–50 lb | 5 | $279.95–$409.95 | About 2018–2019 |
| Fathom II Level Wind | Trolling and bottom | Star, level wind | 1 | Full metal | 30 lb | 4+1 | $299.95–$349.95 | By Feb 2019 |
| Squall II (Star, Lever, Level Wind) | Value inshore and nearshore | Star or lever | 1 | Graphite | 20–33 lb | 3+1 to 6+1 | $179.95–$249.95 | About 2019–2020 |
| Special Senator | Heritage bottom and chunking | Star | 1 | Bakelite / aluminum | 11–22 lb | 2 | $159.95–$259.95 | Long-running |
Selected exact-model specifications
PENN prices, ratios, drag, bearings and capacities as published (mono yards/lb). PENN does not publish weight for most models; the Warfare II weights are from its own listing. Maximum drag is a ceiling, not a fishing setting.
| Exact model | Hand | Ratio | Weight | Max drag | Bearings | Mono capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WARII15LW | R (LH = L) | 5.1:1 | 16.6 oz | 15 lb | 3 | 375/12, 320/15, 215/20 | $139.99 |
| WARII30LW | R | 3.9:1 | 19.5 oz | 15 lb | 3 | 455/25, 370/30, 285/40 | $159.99–$169.99 |
| INT30VISX | R | 4.1 / 1.4:1 | Not published | 55 lb | 5 | 590/40, 440/50, 390/60 | $719.95 |
| INT130VIS | R | 2.3 / 1.1:1 | Not published | 100 lb | 6 | 1330/100, 1005/130, 870/150 | $1,469.95 |
| TRQ25NLD2 | R | 5.5 / 2.8:1 | Not published | 33 lb | 6 | 330/20, 305/25, 245/30 | $629.95 |
| FTHII15SD | R | 6.1:1 | Not published | 30 lb | 7 | 355/12, 305/15, 200/20 | $299.95 |
| FTHII40NLD2 | R | 6.0 / 1.9:1 | Not published | 40 lb | 5 | 410/30, 315/40, 235/50 | $389.95 |
| FTHII15LW | R | 5.5:1 | Not published | 30 lb | 4+1 | Not pulled | $299.95 |
| SQLII15SD | R | 6.1:1 | Not published | 20 lb | 6+1 | 355/12, 305/15, 200/20 | $189.95 |
| 114H2 | R | 2.9:1 | Not published | 22 lb | 2 | 450/50, 390/60, 290/80 | $199.95 |
2025–2026 updates and current generations
2026: on 15 July 2026 PENN listed the 250th Anniversary International VISW, a run of 250 serialized, USA-made reels marking 1776–2026, at $999.95. OnTheWater's ICAST 2026 saltwater reel roundup listed no other new PENN conventional reel.
2025: PENN refreshed its level-wind range with the Rival II Level Wind (listed 11 September 2025, $94.99–$139.99) and the Warfare II Level Wind (listed 6 November 2025, $139.99–$169.99), both with line-counter options. The earlier Rival and Warfare level winds are still listed while stock lasts.
Current flagship generations: International VI (about 2016), Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed, Fathom II (about 2018–2019) and Squall II (about 2019–2020) remain PENN's core lever- and star-drag lines. We found no dated replacement for any of them.
PENN company and conventional-reel overview
America's saltwater reel brand
PENN was founded in Philadelphia in 1932 and still machines its International reels there; it is now part of Pure Fishing. Its conventional range runs from sub-$100 level winds to $1,400+ big-game trolling reels, and its HT-100 carbon drag washers, Dura-Drag lever systems and Quick-Shift two-speed mechanisms are found across many price points.
Unlike most competitors, PENN still sells classic designs such as the Special Senator next to modern machined reels. That makes the range wide, but it also means buyers should compare exact model codes: the same family name can cover star drag, lever drag, single-speed, two-speed and level-wind reels with very different capabilities.
How to choose
For trolling and big game, the International VI is PENN's top reel. For tuna, jigging and live bait on a budget, the Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed and Torque cover most needs; the Torque is lighter and more refined, the Fathom cheaper. For general bottom fishing, the Fathom II Star Drag and Squall II are the workhorses. Level winds — Warfare II, Rival II, Fathom II LW and Squall II LW — suit trolling and bottom fishing from boats, especially with line counters.
New 2025–2026 PENN conventional reels
Warfare II Level Wind — detailed reviewNEW
Buying role: The new value level-wind for trolling, drifting and bottom fishing.
Read the full Warfare II Level Wind review (186 words)
What it is
The Warfare II Level Wind was listed on pennfishing.com on 6 November 2025. It is a second-generation update of PENN's budget-to-mid level-wind reel: graphite frame and sideplates, a forged and machined aluminum spool, machined brass main and pinion gears, HT-100 carbon drag washers, instant anti-reverse and line-capacity rings. Line-counter versions cost $10 more.
Specifications
WARII15LW / WARII15LWLH (right / left): 5.1:1, 16.6 oz, 15 lb drag, 3 bearings, mono 375/12, 320/15, 215/20, braid 580/20, 435/30, 305/50. WARII20LWLC (line counter): 5.1:1, 18.0 oz. WARII30LW: 3.9:1, 19.5 oz, mono 455/25, 370/30, 285/40, braid 1020/30, 710/50, 590/65. All have 15 lb maximum drag. PENN does not publish line per crank. Prices run $139.99–$169.99.
Who should buy it
Boat anglers trolling for kingfish, stripers or walleye, drifting for fluke or bottom fishing nearshore, who want a level wind to lay line evenly without thumbing. The line-counter models are the obvious choice for depth-controlled trolling. The 15 lb drag limit means this is not a reel for big tuna.
Verdict
A sensible, affordable level wind with metal gearing; buy the original Warfare only if it is clearly discounted.
Official Warfare II Level Wind specifications · Back to comparison
Rival II Level Wind — detailed reviewNEW
Buying role: Budget level wind for occasional trolling and bottom fishing.
Read the full Rival II Level Wind review (124 words)
What it is
Listed on 11 September 2025, the Rival II Level Wind is PENN's entry-level conventional reel. It comes in sizes 15, 20 and 30, in right- and left-hand versions, with or without a line counter. Features include HT-100 drag washers, a level wind, line-capacity rings and a corrosion-resistant frame.
Specifications and price
Example prices: 15 right-hand $94.99, 20 right-hand line counter $119.99, 30 right-hand line counter $139.99 (full range $94.99–$139.99). PENN's spec table for gear ratio, drag, bearings and capacity was not available when we checked, so we do not list numbers. The long-running General Purpose Level Wind ($94.99–$109.99) remains the other budget option.
Verdict
Fine for casual trolling and bottom fishing; the Warfare II adds metal gears for about $45 more.
Official Rival II Level Wind specifications · Back to comparison
250th Anniversary International VISW — detailed reviewNEW
Buying role: Limited, serialized USA-made big-game reel.
Read the full 250th Anniversary International VISW review (75 words)
What it is
Published on 15 July 2026, this limited edition of the International VISW wide two-speed lever-drag reel marks the United States' 250th anniversary (1776–2026). PENN lists 250 serialized units, made in the USA, at $999.95. Its listing gives a weight of 2.906 kg. Otherwise it shares the International VI platform reviewed below.
Verdict
A collector piece that is still a fully capable trolling reel; for fishing value alone, the standard VISW costs $719.95–$1,019.95.
Official 250th Anniversary International VISW specifications · Back to comparison
PENN flagship lever-drag reels
International VI (VIS / VISX / VISW) — detailed review
Buying role: PENN's big-game trolling and stand-up flagship.
Read the full International VI (VIS / VISX / VISW) review (194 words)
Design
The sixth-generation International has a machined and anodized aluminum body and sideplates, stainless main and pinion gears, Quick-Shift II two-speed, Dura-Drag, double-dog anti-reverse and line-capacity rings, and is made in the USA. VIS is the standard two-speed, VISX the “Extreme” version with the Versa-Strike adjustable strike stop, and VISW the wide-spool two-speed. “S” model codes are silver colorways.
Specifications
INT12VISX: 5.1/1.8:1, 40 lb drag, 5 bearings, $609.95. INT30VISX: 4.1/1.4:1, 55 lb, braid 905/100, $719.95. INT50VISX: 3.5/1.3:1, 60 lb, braid 1330/100, $769.95. INT70VIS: 3.1/1.5:1, 55 lb, $879.95. INT130VIS: 2.3/1.1:1, 100 lb, 6 bearings, mono 1330/100, $1,469.95. PENN publishes one maximum-drag figure, not strike and full settings. PENN's table lists the INT16VIS at 20 lb and 1035/16 mono, which conflicts with the 45 lb shown for the INT16VISX; treat that entry as suspect.
Who should buy it
Offshore crews trolling for marlin, tuna and wahoo, and stand-up anglers who need high drag with a low gear for lifting heavy fish. Smaller 12–16 sizes suit tournament sailfish and school tuna; 50–130 sizes are chair and harness reels.
Verdict
A proven American big-game reel with strong value against Shimano Tiagra and the Accurate and Avet machined reels.
Official International VI (VIS / VISX / VISW) specifications · Back to comparison
Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed — detailed review
Buying role: Compact machined two-speed for tuna, jigging and live bait.
Read the full Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed review (108 words)
Design
The Torque uses an open-top machined aluminum body, Quick-Shift two-speed and Dura-Drag. It sits between the Fathom II and International in price and refinement. We found no dated release; it has been sold for several years.
Specifications
TRQ15LD2S: 6.0/2.8:1, 20 lb, mono 355/12 to 200/20, $599.95. TRQ25NLD2: 5.5/2.8:1, 33 lb, braid 680/30, $629.95. TRQ40NLD2: 5.0/2.5:1, 40 lb, braid 785/50, $659.95. All right-hand, 6 bearings. PENN lists slightly different ratios for some silver “S” versions (for example TRQ30LD2 5.1/2.5 vs TRQ30LD2S 5.5/2.8); check the exact code.
Verdict
A refined two-speed for anglers who fish hard enough to justify it; the Fathom II LD2 gives similar capability for less.
Official Torque Lever Drag 2-Speed specifications · Back to comparison
PENN Fathom II
Fathom II is PENN's full-metal mid-priced family, sold in star-drag, lever-drag, two-speed and level-wind versions.
Fathom II Star Drag — detailed review
Buying role: Full-metal star-drag workhorse for bottom fishing, jigging and live bait.
Read the full Fathom II Star Drag review (108 words)
Specifications
All sizes have 7 bearings and 30 lb maximum drag. FTHII15SD: 6.1:1, mono 355/12, 305/15, 200/20, braid 550/20 to 290/50. FTHII25NSDP: 4.8:1 power version, braid 710/30. FTHII40SD: 6.1:1, braid 810/50 to 580/80. $299.95 for 8XN/12/15 and $319.95 for 25/30/40; a Star Drag Casting Special version costs $349.95.
Technology
Full metal body and sideplates, Versa-Drag with HT-100 washers, a live spindle and magnetic cast control on the 12 and 15 sizes, so the small sizes also cast well for live bait and jigs.
Verdict
One of the best mid-priced star-drag reels; choose the Squall II to save money or the Fathom II Lever Drag for finer drag control.
Official Fathom II Star Drag specifications · Back to comparison
Fathom II Lever Drag / 2-Speed — detailed review
Buying role: Affordable lever drag for tuna, live bait and trolling.
Read the full Fathom II Lever Drag / 2-Speed review (73 words)
Specifications
Two-speed (5 bearings): FTHII15XNLD2 / LH 5.5/2.8:1, 33 lb, $369.95; FTHII40NLD2 6.0/1.9:1, 40 lb, $389.95; FTHII80LD2 4.2/1.6:1, 50 lb, braid 980/100, $409.95. Single-speed: FTHII15LD 5.3:1, 20 lb, $279.95; FTHII30LD 5.3:1, 33 lb, $309.95; FTHII40NLDHS 7.1:1, 40 lb, $329.95.
Technology
Dura-Drag, Quick-Shift II on two-speed models, a pull-to-turn preset knob and stainless gears in a full metal body.
Verdict
The best-value PENN lever reel; the left-hand 15XN two-speed is notable for jigging anglers.
Official Fathom II Lever Drag / 2-Speed specifications · Back to comparison
Fathom II Level Wind — detailed review
Buying role: Full-metal level wind for trolling and bottom fishing.
Read the full Fathom II Level Wind review (61 words)
Specifications
4+1 bearings and 30 lb maximum drag. FTHII15LW: 5.5:1, $299.95. FTHII20LWLH: left-hand, $299.95. FTHII30LWLC: 4.3:1 with line counter, $349.95. FTHII50LW: 3.7:1, $349.95. Sport Fishing covered the reel in February 2019 at a launch price of $199.99, so prices have risen since.
Verdict
Twice the drag of the Warfare II for heavier trolling; the line-counter 30 is the most versatile size.
Official Fathom II Level Wind specifications · Back to comparison
PENN value and heritage conventional reels
Squall II (Star Drag, Lever Drag, Level Wind) — detailed review
Buying role: Graphite-bodied value family for inshore and nearshore.
Read the full Squall II (Star Drag, Lever Drag, Level Wind) review (106 words)
Star Drag
6+1 bearings. SQLII15SD: 6.1:1, 20 lb, $189.95. SQLII15SDCS (Casting Special): 6.1:1, 20 lb, $229.95. SQLII40SD: 6.1:1, 25 lb, braid 810/50, $199.95. Live spindle, Versa-Drag/HT-100 and a bronze main gear.
Lever Drag and Level Wind
Lever Drag (5 bearings, $219.95–$249.95): SQLII25NLD 5.3:1, 30 lb; SQLII40NLDHS 7.1:1, 20 lb; SQLII60LD 4.8:1, 33 lb. PENN lists the SQLII30LD at 12.7 lb, which looks like an error. Level Wind (3+1 bearings, 33 lb): SQLII20LW 4.9:1, $179.95; SQLII30LWLC 4.9:1 line counter, $209.95; SQLII50LW 4.0:1, $209.95; left-hand in 20 and 30.
Verdict
Lighter graphite construction at a lower price than Fathom II; ideal for kingfish, bottom fishing and party-boat use.
Official Squall II (Star Drag, Lever Drag, Level Wind) specifications · Back to comparison
Special Senator — detailed review
Buying role: Classic star-drag reel for bottom fishing and chunking.
Read the full Special Senator review (63 words)
Specifications
2 bearings, right-hand. 113H2: 3.3:1, 20 lb, mono 440/30, $169.95. 114H2: 2.9:1, 22 lb, mono 450/50, $199.95. 114H2LW (wide): 2.9:1, 22 lb, mono 560/50, $259.95. The range runs from the 112H2 (11 lb drag) to the 113H2SP; $159.95–$259.95.
Verdict
A simple, serviceable classic. Modern reels offer more drag per ounce, but the Senator remains popular for wire-line, chunking and heavy bottom work.
Official Special Senator specifications · Back to comparison
Official sources
Specifications and prices from pennfishing.com (checked 6 October 2026); dates from PENN listing data and Sport Fishing (2019).
- PENN conventional reels — official
- International VIS — official
- Sport Fishing — Fathom II LW
- On The Water — new saltwater reels from ICAST 2026
Compare manufacturers: Shimano · Daiwa · Accurate · Avet · Okuma · Seigler · Alutecnos · Fin-Nor · TICA.