Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Fishing Reel review and price compare 2025
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Product overview
| Brand | Penn |
| Material | Other |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Color | Black Gold |
| Handle Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Item Weight | 0.76 Pounds |
| Fishing Line Type | Multifilament |
| Bearing Material | Stainless Steel |
product features
- IPX5 sealed body and spool design
- CNC gear technology
- Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers
- 5 plus 1 sealed stainless-steel ball bearing System
- Full-metal body
product description
The PENN Fishing Spinfisher VI features IPX5 sealing so whether it gets hit with a wave, or you let it ride in the spray all the way home, you don't have to worry about saltwater getting into the gearbox or drag system. PENN HT-100 drag washers are housed in a fully sealed spool to give the stopping power needed for big saltwater fish. A full metal body and Sideplate keep the CNC gear system in precise alignment under heavy loads. Available in standard, live liner, long cast and bail-less models. Features: - IPX5 sealed body and spool design - CNC gear technology - Ht-100 carbon fiber drag washers - 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system - Full metal body - Superline spool - line capacity rings Specifications: - Water type: saltwater - reel size: 2500 - technique: spinning - color: black gold - reel handle position: right/left - gear ratio: 6.2: 1 - retrieve rate: 33 - Braking System: N/a - bearing count: 6 - Braid capacity (yards/lbs): 240/10, 220/15, 160/20 - mono capacity (yards/lbs): 255/6 175/8 140/10 - drag Type: front drag - drag material: HT-100 - max drag: 15 lbs. - anti reverse: instant anti-reverse - weight: 10.70 lbs.
product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 5 x 5 x 4 inches; 12.16 Ounces
- Item model number : Spinfisher VI
- Department : Unisex-adult
- Date First Available : August 16, 2018
- Manufacturer : Pure Fishing
- ASIN : B07GKM2352
important information
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Questions about Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Fishing Reel
Q:
Which sizes have the brass gears? Does it start at 6500?
Answer: Correct start from the size 6500 and up
Q:
How to clean it after saltwater?
Answer: Soap and water dry and spray wd-40
Answer: Always rinse your salt water tackle with regular water. And keep oiled.
Q:
Max drag on penn 7500 lc
Answer: All drag sets should be done with the breaking strength of the line in mind. Do Not put 28 lbs of drag on 30 lb line, try 10 -15 max. As your spool gets smaller (the fish is stripping it off) the drag increases proportionally so if he runs you down on line back off the drag some. As an exercise, set your drag at 20# or the appropriate setting 25-50%(max) of the line's strength, tie the line to anything you can hold and run with it to see how difficult it is to pull 20 lbs of resistance for 200 yds. No stopping. Compare your effort to that of a fish that is most likely a lot smaller than you are. Good Luck and tight lines.
Q:
Whats the difference between the 4500 and the 4500lbs?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: 4500 bls is bailess...no bail requiring you to manually place the line back on the reel before retrieval. Works well for casting heavier baits if you’ve ever lost a large or expensive lure because of the bail tripping early.
Answer: If you’re referring to BLS, the difference means it is bailess
Answer: It’s not lbs, it’s BLS and it means “Bail less”. I’ve never fished with a bail less spinning rod.
Q:
Can you be used for carp?
Answer: Save some dough and opt for Fierce LL instead. I paired the FRCII2500LL with 10’ 3.5lb test curve rods and 20lb braid and it works great for carp.
Answer: Yes for very large carp it’s built for saltwater fishing.
Answer: Yes ,depends on size of carp
Answer: Sure. Just use appropriate lb line
Answer: Yes, very strong reel.
Q:
I cannot decide between the 350 and the 450 reel. I mostly fish in salt water lagoons and off of a bay or river side marina dock?
Answer: I think you'd be fine with the 350 in those areas , it's got a great drag system and with the appropriate line you should have no problem , and save a little money. I wouldn't move up to the 450 unless I was going off shore or regularly hooking fish over 40 lbs.
Answer: Get the 450 because it holds more line of a heavier lb test.
Answer: Well in truth it depends what you are targeting as far as type of fish. However as a rule, I always look at line capacities and drag rating. Tight lines????????
Answer: I would use the 3500.
Q:
What is the drag on a 6500 Penn fishing reel
Answer: 30lb
Q:
how big a difference in casting distance is there between 6500 and 6500LC?
Answer: I only have a regular 5500 SFVI. But I can tell you it can cast a long ways. I’ve casted a 1-1/2 ounce bucktail over 150’ to a weed line chasing Mahi. They’re great reels for the money. I own 8 of them.
Answer: Hard question to answer. To many other variables such as rod used. Also the casters ability. But with the extended spool filled properly. Definitely will get a few more yards.
Q:
What the diff between V and VI?
Answer: They now make the model with liveline feature as a separate model which is great for live bait fishing, otherwise I think they explain the upgrades at the Penn web site, URL is below: (if allowed by Amazon)
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Do not buy this based on its baitrunner. The "pre-set" is way too tight. Even after reducing it to it lowest setting and using the special tool. No self respecting fish will take bait from it. Wish I had not invested.
Q:
I bought a 9500. the manufacturer info indicates a new spinfisher vi live liner system. the reel i received does not have it. bait and switch?
Answer: There is a 9500 and a 9500LL which is the live liner version. Amazon can be tough because the stock photos that are used may show a live liner version but the sku number is for a 9500. Hope this helps.
Answer: No, they are two completely different models. They also offer long cast and bail-less models of the Spinfisher IV.
Q:
Is the 4500 good for casting at the beach or is it too heavy? How many yards of 20lb line can i fit on the 4500?
Answer: Lord no its not too heavy, I have 2 4500s, 2 5500s, a 6500 and a 10500. The 4500's and the 5500's are a nice small spinning reel - i use them for throwing lures and for fishing for smaller fish, though they can certainly handle bigger fish. I landed a 28 lb jack fish with a 4500, and it was a blast. My usual fish on those are the 3-10 lb red fish as well as the tasty whiting. As i recall, the last time i relined the 4500, it was fine braid and i put around 240-260 yards of line.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Size it up with a 7 or 8 foot rod , 30 lb braided line & go for it . That’s a great reel , you won’t be sorry....
Q:
what size rod do i need for the 6500 penn rod?
Answer: 9-12 foot. I have one on a 10’ surf rod and one on a 12’ surf rod.
Answer: Mine came with a 6’6” rod from Penn. I understand its not the greatest rod but works OK for me as I am not very good at fishing just yet.
Answer: A 10 - 12 foot rod would do it
Q:
No encuentro el spinfisher de la última versión en 5500 o 6500 y cuál es la deferencia en el peso de estas versiones va las anteriores?
Q:
The description says the real size is 9500. Did they really mean 6500?
Answer: Reels start at 2500 go to 10500
Q:
what kind of rods is in the picture on the boat for the 6500 reels thanks ?
Q:
How many yards of 65lb braid can the 8500 take?
Answer: 555 yds
Q:
Will this real pair good with the ugly stick tiger elite?
Answer: Yes, especially if you use live bait (rod sensitivity).
Q:
Does it come with extra spool?
Answer: No no extra spool .
Answer: No it doesn’t at all
Answer: No it doesn't come with an extra spool, a great fishing reel neverless
Answer: Nope
Answer: Mine did not
Answer: No it doesn't.
Q:
does it have a bait clicker?
Answer: No. Bait clickers are indicative of baitcasters.
Answer: If you mean the clicker when drag is being pulled than yes it does. Otherwise it's quiet and smooth while reeling.
Answer: No. Liveliner is setup for a 2 stage drag. Baitclicker more on a conventional reel.
Answer: No it doesn’t
Q:
Whats the drag on a 5500lc?
Answer: 20lb
Q:
Suggestions for rod n reel for catching red fish -snook ect. Any suggestions in spinning reel and line weight,, new to saltwater fishing,
Answer: There are lots of choices here . I paired a Spinfisher VI 3500 on a St. Croix 7”6 MLF for one set up and am using 8 lb. fluorocarbon and another I have a Florida Fishing Products Osprey Saltwater Series 3000 on a 7” St. Croix Mojo Inshore using 40 lb. braid and they both do very well . A lot of your choices are about personal preference and what you hear from other anglers and what they are using .
Answer: To many factors are you fishing from a boat pier or a jetty
Q:
Is the 6500 to big for pier fishing
Answer: 4000 would be decent for normal pier fishing
Answer: Yes unless your after big game, i would use a 3500 or 4500 for all around use.
Q:
Does 8500 spin fisher have automatic bail The reviews are mixed one says one thing one says another thing could somebody from pen please answer my que
Answer: No. We have the SSVI 8500, 7500, and 6500 and they are all manual bail. The smaller models DO have auto bail trip. Not sure about the 5500 but the smaller ones definitely do.
Answer: There is a bail trip.
Q:
What is the line capacity of the 10500?
Answer: For braided line: 50lb/845yd
Q:
Need a rod recommendations for this reel
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Ugly Stik, Big water rods either: 12 foot or 15 foot. I use for surf fishing with this reel.
Answer: I have it on a Shakespeare Ugly stick. BWS 1100 medium action seven foot long rod. You can go longer but I wouldn't go any shorter.
Answer: That depends on lots of factors to me . I went with a St. Croix MoJo 7’6 MF with mine . I specifically bought and paired these for inshore Wade fishing for Speckled Trout and Redfish . I wanted the sensitivity but strength ( and reputation) and backbone for the possibility of bigger fish . Been a great combo for me so far . Tight Lines !
Q:
Is the spinfisher VI 4500 a good choice for catfish around 35lbs?
Answer: It could. It's not my first choice. I would go with the Penn Rival 20lw or 30lw. All my catfish rigs are the Rival 30lw.
Answer: 4500 is strong enough to handle that much catfish. My way of thinking is how much fight do you expect and how long do you want to take? 5500/6500 might give you a little more leverage.
Answer: Two types bail and bailless in the 4500. Catfish I would use the bail. I use mine, a bailless, on stripers. It can handle a 35 lber, if you are going heavier, than a 50, I would look at the 6500. Think the rod has to be stout if you are pulling it off the bottom in deeper water.
Answer: I would go with the 6500 if your going to be putting that much load on the reel. The 6500 has brass gears as opposed to the 5500 and under which use a zinc main gear that will wear much faster then. Since your are most likely using bait and not casting all day the extra weight shouldn't bother you. Line capacity is also a factor. If your using mono or fluro you get a lot more capacity with the bigger reels.
Answer: Yes, a great reel for that application. Spool your reel with 20-30 lb. braid and have fun!
Q:
how do i find replacement parts for my PINN spinning reel
Answer: Just google penn reel parts
Answer: It depends on what reel you have , some people of have some replacements parts for Penn reels
Answer: You are in luck when you buy a Penn reel. I fish up and down the east coast and theres never a lack of places to get parts and service for a penn reel. When I bought my first penn reel forty years ago I did this because my fishing friends suggested buying a penn for this very reason. Remember always clean your equipment after every use. Salt and sand can and will damage your equipment.
Answer: I would think Penn.com I've never needed parts.
Answer: Contact PENN directly. If you go to PENN website you can find contacts
Answer: www.pennfishing.com
Q:
What does the 2500 weigh?
Answer: 10.7 ounces.
Q:
How many yards of 30lb power pro fit on the 4500 model?
Answer: 30lb braid is too heavy for this reel. 20lb is more suited.
Answer: Disregard the other comment that says 30# braid it too heavy, it’s not. If you visit Penn’s website they even list 30# braid in their specs, this reel can load up to 250 yards of 30# braid for the 4500 size. If you can get away with using 20# braid I would recommend it solely for the ability to cast further.
Answer: About 250 yards
Answer: About 250...I have 40lb maxcuatro on mine and it almost took a 300 yd spool
Q:
What kind of Penn rod should I buy to go with this reel?
Answer: That depends on what weight lures you intend on using and whether you want a inshore rod surf Rod or boat rod. It’s a great reel for a wide range of fishing. I mostly fish from the beach but I don’t like surf rods so I use 7 to 8 foot inshore rods that are medium(for 1/4oz-1 1/4 Lures) or medium heavy power for 3/4oz-1 1/2 lures.
Answer: A spinning reel rod. Up to med action
Answer: I pair mine with Ugly stiks. GX2 - 6'6.
Q:
Why is Amazon terrible at losing item specification, like the actual weight, drag power, gear ratio of the reel?
Answer: What do you mean by "losing"? Nevertheless, just go to penfishing.com and get the info you need. They have more detailed, relevant info there anyway.
Q:
What size reel cover for spinfisher vi 6500?
Answer: I got the 6500 and the 7500 and they are both great!
Answer: Sorry i don't use reel covers. I don't have need for them.
Q:
What is a good matching rod for the 4500
Answer: Penn Battalion 7 ft 10-17. Sensitive good backbone
Answer: Ugly Stick Bigwater/ Stainless Guides
Q:
I have a 7ft heavy penn carnage, I am going to use it for vertical jigging blackfin, bonito, and bluefish, what reel size 6500 or 8500?
Answer: Thats a tough question, those are some heavy duty fish - i love my 6500, i dont have a 8500, i have a 10500 - and its a monster. I would probably go with the 6500. I have not done vertical jigging for blackfin etc. etc, but fish for sharks, jack fish, large red fish (channel bass to you guys) , with the 6500 and it handles those pretty well.
Answer:
Answer:
Q:
I just recieved this spinfisher vi 8500 and its beautiful, however is this compatible with the shakespeare tiger elite 7' heavy rod?
Answer: I have 7' tiger lites, with 4500's....not sure how your fishing, casting vs jigging, but you should be ok. Bright side, if you dont like it, get another rod. I love mine.
Answer: Yea man you can pair those up nicely. I throw my 65-85 reels on crowder 7’ heavy or med heavy boat rods for jigging or just flat lining. Obviously I’d bring it in the store and see how they balance with one another.
Answer: Yes
Q:
Do y’all think this is better than the bg or the saltist from daiawa?
Answer: I started Surf fishing with the Old BG's with the wooden handles. I've taken good care of them so they still work well. But it is a new day and the equipment has evolved. I chose to try the Spinfisher VI 4500 but not the bail less. This updated VI has seals in specific places to guard against corrosion and sand. At the price point for the VI 4500, it was an offer I couldn't refuse. I also have the New updated BG's in the 6500 & 8000. But I haven't spooled them yet.
Answer: Not really sure but better than any Shimano reels in this price range that I have had.
Answer: I have never been disappointed with Penn , so I buy Penn.
Q:
Does it come with extra spool?
Answer: No no extra spool .
Answer: No it doesn’t at all
Answer: No it doesn't come with an extra spool, a great fishing reel neverless
Answer: Nope
Answer: Mine did not
Answer: No it doesn't.
Q:
Is there any difference besides the spool between 2500 and 3500? What I'm asking is are the bodies the same size between these two sizes?
Answer: The schematics show that the 3500 and 4500 series share the same bodies. The 2500 has a smaller lighter body
Answer: There is a significant size and weight difference in the two reels. I used the 3500 for several years and switched to the 2500 after it came out...I love both of them...best and most durable reels for the money
Answer: Sorry I don't have that size reels . i have the penn Spinnfisher 4500 that's traffic .
Q:
Can anyone inform me of the manufactures that engineer and produce reels in the USA?
Answer: 2 that come to mind are Truth Reels(Virginia) and Accurate (California). Also a third one is Avet Reels.
Q:
what would you recommend for speckle trout and red drum. What size would you recommend
Answer: I would recommend two sizes of the Spinfisher. For all around, I would go with the 3500 size, but if I were throwing bigger lures and expected to catch bigger redfish, snook, big jacks ... etc., I would size up to a 4500. I fish the surf using bigger plugs and jugs and have a St Croix 8’ medium heavy and 4500 Spinfisher because I want something that can handle a bigger fish, but I use this same rod and my 3500 Clash (same size as a 3500 Spinfisher) for my day to day surf and river/lagoon fishing.
Answer: There can be a huge difference in trout vs redfish size and power. Guess it depends where and size of the reds. Wade fishing flats like around rock port TX where reds are small vs say Hatteras on the East Coast where they are much much bigger even knocking at the 100lb door @ low mid 90s. You would be way under gunned with the 2500. I think the 4500LB is the most versatile of the line up. It could be used even fresh water rivers etc with a rod change and cover small med surf shore and pier. Light enough to work yet strong enough and well sealed IPX5 makes it a great choice
Answer: I think the 4500 is the perfect size its light enough and large enough. Good all around real for inshore and even some surf casting
Answer: Either 3500 or 4500 would do the job Nicely
Answer: I bought the 2500 and love it. I do a lot of kayak and wade fishing.
Answer: 4500 bailless or regular your choice
Answer: 2500 -4500
Answer: 2500. 10lb braid
Answer: 2500-3500
Q:
What’s the max drag for 8500?
Answer: 40 lbs
Q:
How much yards of 100 pound test the 10500 have?
Answer: About 420yd for 100lb braided line
Q:
Best saltwater rod to pair?!
Answer: Ugly stiks are strong but heavy and fish like a broom. If your budget is over $100 look at st croix triump & mojo inshore or dark matter rods. Toadfish or Even tsunami carbon shield rods
Answer: Ugly Stik Bigwater/7ft.
Q:
Is the spinfisher v 2500 a good choice for stripers?
Answer: Too small. If its surf cast shore fishing 4500 live bait option is as small as I would go. Match up with an ugly stick 20lb braided fish finder etc rig all is good.
Answer: Too small
Q:
Can someone tell me if the 6500lc means it is the long cast that just came out in oct? is it on sale for $167.63?
Answer: LC does mean long cast
Q:
Can I use 30lb braided on the 3500 and what’s the biggest fish that can get
Answer: Sure, 30 lb braid is 10-12 lb monofiliment. How big a fish?? Lot of variables there!! :) Depends on Rod and depends on you, the fisherperson!!
Q:
Is this good for deep sea rock fishing or just things like tuba and bonito?
Answer: Depends on size, use a 3500 for bucktailing fluke. Rockfish assuming you are talking about Stripers.
Answer: Depends on the size reel you are looking at, there is a size for anything. Excellent quality and great waterproof seals. Never fished for Tuba though-LOL.
Answer: Yes these spinfishers are nice and sealed durable like crazy. I would just suggest a larger size like 5000 and up. The Slammer are the next model up even better seal
Answer: Not good for rock fishing.
Q:
Which reel can handle 60lbs mono line?
Answer: The 6500 and the 10500 will handle 60 mono, i have 70 braid on the 6500 and 95 lb braid on the 10500. But the 6500 will handle the 60 lb mono fine.
Answer: 9500 or 10500. But why 60 lb mono. Use braid with a 60 lb. Mono top shot or leader
Q:
which spinfisher saltwater reel takes the most line?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: It Depends on which type of line you use. I recommend you go to the Penn web site; they have a nice filter utility that can assist with this question. pennfishingDOTcom
Q:
What’s the max lb test
Answer: Penn rates it 20lb but I use 60lb braid with no issues.
Product reviews of Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Fishing Reel
Eddie Max : I simply bought the wrong reel for the game I was after
I thought I was buying a different reel, a slammer to be exact , I was told to buy a 4500 series' I did not know there are many different models as I am a beginner.
Ricardo : live liner
love this spinning reel from penn cast it far set the drag let um run with it took it sting ray fishing as I do with all my rods and reels for a test and it held up with my diawa surf 12ft pole wore the rays out so approved.
Tracy : Recommend
So far so good
Kathy : Love it
I use this reel fishing offshore. It handles large fish no problem, smooth drag. Definitely worth the money.
DILLIGAF : Not worth the hype.
Bought this to go on vacation with me. Open the box to spool up and this is what I found. Broken bail and no chance to use. This is a Penn and this is supposed to be one of the best reels around. I guess that being the best in name only. No value for the money and time I spent on this beautiful looking and broken reel.
K.K : Heavy Weight?
I got size 4500. As everyone knows, this is a reel with excellent seal against water or/and sand with outstanding drag power!! Many of the review online mentioned about the weight of this reel is heavy. But I haven't feel it is way too heavy to throw lures all day long. Probably it has to do with way I cast, I use the weight of the reel to cast, and this size 4500 is smaller side of Spinfisher vi. Anyway, I highly recommend this one to both beginners and veterans.
Amazon Customer : Proven Durable Penn Reels
I chose this reel to pair with a St. Croix med/light 7’ rod for wade fishing for Speckled Trout around the Outer Banks . I’ve owned the larger 650 Penn for years but it’s a little too much weight and overkill for where I’ll be fishing. This reel is made well , and I expect it to last for many years just like my 640 has . One thing I did need to do was to remove the washer and replace it with the provided smaller one to balance and even my line onto my reel , which was easy and did the trick .
D. T. Henderson : Penn Reels , from early " SS " series too the New " SSVI " series .
I have eight different Penn Reels. First bought in 1982 a SS 320, now I trust Penn Reels as they have given me great service in every type of fishing one can do. In shore ,near shore , boat etc. Never have any ever failed me. I do take very good care of my reels tho. As ya should with yers no matter the brand. There are a lot of very good reels out there . For " MY " money tho I want Penn brand. My SS320 only cost $ 55.00 (?) My newest ( 2 years now ) Light reel a SS 2500VI , cost $ 140.00 ! Same size ,just 6th generation . Even they are no longer made in the " U S A " , they are still the best for the money. Thank you, Tom Daytona Beach, FL.
darren w. : Maintenance
I love Penn reels. Ive been using exclusively Penn for over 30 years. You can't go wrong with any gold spool Penn. I wash all my Penn reels with dawn soap water and a soft bristle brush and rinse with a mist and not a jet of water after every use and never have the "tight reel" problems I hear about in reviews all the time. If you treat your Lady, dog, guns, and reels good they'll treat you good. A few minutes of maintenance goes a long way.
Leonardo benitez : Baitrunner feature
Smooth and durable
Shane Williams : Non-Existent Quality Control
I own 7 PENN reels and 4 PENN rods, the only bad experiences I’ve ever had with their products have been with items bought on Amazon. One rod was missing a guide eye, a Slammer III that barely lasted a season, and now this reel which is completely missing parts and feels a little grindy (brand new out of the box). It doesn’t even look like the housing has the proper threads for the end cap and seal (parts 233A and 233C). I searched all packaging high and low and the parts just aren’t there.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
Steven wilfing : Can’t go wrong with this reel
I bought the 4500 size for my eight foot st. croix triumph rod, I’ve had the reel for about three months now and I have been the crap out of it. I’ve probably caught at least a hundred blue fish including ten over 15 pounds. The drag is very smooth and handles big fish beautifully. On one outing I accidentally dropped my reel in the water, this didn’t seem to affect the reel in anyway.
Wilk : Live liner locked, defective mechanism had to return.
on Spinfisher VI 6500ll Live liner mechanism failed
Mukl : Worth the money
Never spent this much on a spinning reel and I can tell you it’s worth it. It’s so smooth, easy to use, and casts so far.
Tracy : Recommend
So far so good
Don Schwirtlich : Excellent quality, arrived the next day , and doing its job, safely, securely
Excellent quality - arrived on time - thank you.
M. Belken : Mine is a 3500
I like the 3500 size, more line capacity at a small gain of weight. Balances well on a 7' medium/heavy St. Croix Tide-master. Has handled big drum, 60# sharks and everything in-between. I fish coastal waters out of a kayak and it has held up well to splashing. I have several 2500's and have had very good long term service out of them.
D. T. Henderson : Penn Reels , from early " SS " series too the New " SSVI " series .
I have eight different Penn Reels. First bought in 1982 a SS 320, now I trust Penn Reels as they have given me great service in every type of fishing one can do. In shore ,near shore , boat etc. Never have any ever failed me. I do take very good care of my reels tho. As ya should with yers no matter the brand. There are a lot of very good reels out there . For " MY " money tho I want Penn brand. My SS320 only cost $ 55.00 (?) My newest ( 2 years now ) Light reel a SS 2500VI , cost $ 140.00 ! Same size ,just 6th generation . Even they are no longer made in the " U S A " , they are still the best for the money. Thank you, Tom Daytona Beach, FL.
K.K : Heavy Weight?
I got size 4500. As everyone knows, this is a reel with excellent seal against water or/and sand with outstanding drag power!! Many of the review online mentioned about the weight of this reel is heavy. But I haven't feel it is way too heavy to throw lures all day long. Probably it has to do with way I cast, I use the weight of the reel to cast, and this size 4500 is smaller side of Spinfisher vi. Anyway, I highly recommend this one to both beginners and veterans.
Shane Williams : Non-Existent Quality Control
I own 7 PENN reels and 4 PENN rods, the only bad experiences I’ve ever had with their products have been with items bought on Amazon. One rod was missing a guide eye, a Slammer III that barely lasted a season, and now this reel which is completely missing parts and feels a little grindy (brand new out of the box). It doesn’t even look like the housing has the proper threads for the end cap and seal (parts 233A and 233C). I searched all packaging high and low and the parts just aren’t there.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
Evan : Worth the money!
Best of both worlds SALTWATER AND FRESH WATER FISHING!
Wilk : Live liner locked, defective mechanism had to return.
on Spinfisher VI 6500ll Live liner mechanism failed
missgreene : Good quality reel, would recommend
Bought the 3500, put it on my fresh water rod, seems well made, drag is smooth. Good quality reel.
Dale : An alternative to Van Staal??
I waited 30+ years for Penn to offer a small, lightweight, bail less reel.
Was it worth the wait?? Yes and No!
First the good: Great looks, good price, excellent drag, and perhaps the best line lay of any reel I have ever owned. The reel is very smooth making it a pleasure to use. Penn has outstanding customer service and parts are readily available at reasonable prices.
The build quality is very, good for the price, and should last for decades of heavy use..
My issue with the reel is that it may be over engineered and too smooth... if the handle is between 11 and 3 o’clock during casting the rotor turns and the line catches the roller. Penn’s recommended fix was to pack the reel with grease.
This recommendation did solve the problem, but exposed another issue. The seal for the side plate is a very thin,fragile gasket. It tore when I removed the side plate to add the grease. The gaskets are available and inexpensive so I purchased several for future use. The reels 6.2 gearing a little high for fighting large fish in the surf.
I do recommend this reel. In my opinion it is a good option for most fishermen. Penn’s line lay and drag are better than my Van Staal.
Penn’s excellent customer service is also a huge Plus
Was it worth the wait?? Yes and No!
First the good: Great looks, good price, excellent drag, and perhaps the best line lay of any reel I have ever owned. The reel is very smooth making it a pleasure to use. Penn has outstanding customer service and parts are readily available at reasonable prices.
The build quality is very, good for the price, and should last for decades of heavy use..
My issue with the reel is that it may be over engineered and too smooth... if the handle is between 11 and 3 o’clock during casting the rotor turns and the line catches the roller. Penn’s recommended fix was to pack the reel with grease.
This recommendation did solve the problem, but exposed another issue. The seal for the side plate is a very thin,fragile gasket. It tore when I removed the side plate to add the grease. The gaskets are available and inexpensive so I purchased several for future use. The reels 6.2 gearing a little high for fighting large fish in the surf.
I do recommend this reel. In my opinion it is a good option for most fishermen. Penn’s line lay and drag are better than my Van Staal.
Penn’s excellent customer service is also a huge Plus
Alvin A. : an outstanding penn product
well made, does a great job, smooth as silk, drag works very well. would recommend
Wilk : Live liner locked, defective mechanism had to return.
on Spinfisher VI 6500ll Live liner mechanism failed
Eddie Max : I simply bought the wrong reel for the game I was after
I thought I was buying a different reel, a slammer to be exact , I was told to buy a 4500 series' I did not know there are many different models as I am a beginner.
Amazon Customer : Not functioning when received. 2nd one in a week
When you pulled the bail over and then turned the crank to close the bail it would not close. Really disappointed especially at that price. That is my last Penn. This is the replacement for the first one and it too is defective. I will continue to buy Okuma because of quality
Wilk : Live liner locked, defective mechanism had to return.
on Spinfisher VI 6500ll Live liner mechanism failed
Alvin A. : an outstanding penn product
well made, does a great job, smooth as silk, drag works very well. would recommend
michael terwilliger : Worth the wait.
Smooth operations. Spooled it with some 17 lb braided Berkley Fireline on a St. Croix rod. Now, just need to find time to use it.
Angelo : 3500 pairs perfectly with 8’-6” steelhead rods
The 3500 series is a perfect match for 8’-6” and 9’-6” G.Loomis steelhead rods.
There are lighter reels out there but these are built sturdy and are sealed.
This is my fourth spinfisher and I use them.
20 pound sufix 832 pairs perfectly with this reel.
This reel should last you many years.
There are lighter reels out there but these are built sturdy and are sealed.
This is my fourth spinfisher and I use them.
20 pound sufix 832 pairs perfectly with this reel.
This reel should last you many years.
Sox : Great drag, can handle a larger fish
Paired this with a 7ft medium fast action St. Croix Tidemaster rod for offshore Snapper (Mangrove, Yellowtail, Lane) fishing. First day using this combo surprising landed a 25ft Gag Grouper.......the drag held up very well on this large fish. Rated this a 4 star vs. 5 because of the small paddle. Wish this reel had the larger egg shape paddle, otherwise great reel for the $
MH : For IN THE SURF fishing, these really can't be beat
So, to be clear, there's SALTWATER rated and IN THE SURF rated, as far as I'm concerned.
You can pretty much use any reel in the saltwater, as long as you don't get it IN the saltwater. What I mean is if you're on a boat and fishing, just rinse your reels real well when you get home, and you'll be fine.
However, if you're IN the surf, meaning you're wading in the surf and fishing actively, there's a huge difference on how the reels will perform. The reason is the Surf offers all kinds of issues that gum up reels really quick. When standing in the surf, of course, your reel is going to get pounded by saltwater, but there's other elements, such as that very, very fine "Grit" that's in the surf water, as well as active normal sized sand. That fine "grit" is a REAL reel destroyer. I've had numerous reels I had to open up and completely cleanse after a day of surf fishing. That grit binds with the grease and will completely fail a reel (To where you literally can't crank the reel anymore).
So I rate saltwater reels as from a boat and IN the surf.
These Penn Spinfisher series are truly surf rated. I've had these reels completely submerged in the surf water, 20 yards into the surf (Sometimes you have to put the reel end in the water and climb your pole to remove tangles with Braid, so forth). These Penn reels have delivered and continued to operate. the drags are sealed and the reel seems to be sealed as well.
However, that doesn't mean to neglect them. After every surf fishing trip, upon arrival at home, I hose them off real good, blasting the water on a jet stream around all the critical areas. I blow them off with an air compressor and sometimes spray a little silicon on the handle knob and the bail bearing... VOILA, they're good as new.
These Penn's deliver with little maintenance and so far have offered up months of aggressive fishing.
You can pretty much use any reel in the saltwater, as long as you don't get it IN the saltwater. What I mean is if you're on a boat and fishing, just rinse your reels real well when you get home, and you'll be fine.
However, if you're IN the surf, meaning you're wading in the surf and fishing actively, there's a huge difference on how the reels will perform. The reason is the Surf offers all kinds of issues that gum up reels really quick. When standing in the surf, of course, your reel is going to get pounded by saltwater, but there's other elements, such as that very, very fine "Grit" that's in the surf water, as well as active normal sized sand. That fine "grit" is a REAL reel destroyer. I've had numerous reels I had to open up and completely cleanse after a day of surf fishing. That grit binds with the grease and will completely fail a reel (To where you literally can't crank the reel anymore).
So I rate saltwater reels as from a boat and IN the surf.
These Penn Spinfisher series are truly surf rated. I've had these reels completely submerged in the surf water, 20 yards into the surf (Sometimes you have to put the reel end in the water and climb your pole to remove tangles with Braid, so forth). These Penn reels have delivered and continued to operate. the drags are sealed and the reel seems to be sealed as well.
However, that doesn't mean to neglect them. After every surf fishing trip, upon arrival at home, I hose them off real good, blasting the water on a jet stream around all the critical areas. I blow them off with an air compressor and sometimes spray a little silicon on the handle knob and the bail bearing... VOILA, they're good as new.
These Penn's deliver with little maintenance and so far have offered up months of aggressive fishing.
steve cole : Beautiful Reel
Smooth as silk. Pulled a pole holder over into the sand......(I know !), it was covered. Against my better judgement, I dunked it clean and voila ! Not a peep !! Love it !!!
Chris : Not bad
I like how this reel looks and feels. i Found the handle for reeling the line in get lose very easy compared to my other reels. I did not notice any issues thus far, i wish their was a better instruction guide in the box. Over all the reel is worth 5 stars if the handle would not loosen up so easily.
I have not been able to see why this reel is worth as much as it is because only key different is the sheer volume of fishing line can be placed on this unit. Other than that don't see why it cost so much. All my other reels can get wet and no issues with them rusting or any thing like that and cost more than 90% less and the brand was Kingston another great brand name.
Over all i am still keeping the reel and it works great so i am not returning the unit, so 3 star due to pricing .
I have not been able to see why this reel is worth as much as it is because only key different is the sheer volume of fishing line can be placed on this unit. Other than that don't see why it cost so much. All my other reels can get wet and no issues with them rusting or any thing like that and cost more than 90% less and the brand was Kingston another great brand name.
Over all i am still keeping the reel and it works great so i am not returning the unit, so 3 star due to pricing .
Stacy : Penn 9500
Well I'm only giving this a 2 star review. When the reel arrived the bale would not work correctly. It would not click back over after casting. This was new in the box no line on it just testing the function of the reel. will revisit when replacement reel arrives and see how it works
Update received replacement reel in a prompt manor new reel works as advertised. Happy with my purchase and customer service.
Update received replacement reel in a prompt manor new reel works as advertised. Happy with my purchase and customer service.
premdas25 : This reel is better than many others that cost hundreds more !!!!
I love it! Biggest fish i've landed on this reel has been 30 inch stripper, from the beach!!
I picked up the 4500 Spinfisher vi, spooled it with 20lb power pro V2 and rigged it on a 7ft MH St Croix mojo inshore rod. I bought it to surf cast for schoolie strippers and bluefish. I throw .5oz --1.5oz lures with this set up. I have fished this set up 4-5 days a week for 4 months with no failures. My only advice for potential owners of this Penn reel and all Penn reels is, don't over spool Penn reels.
I own many Penn reels (battle 2's, spinfisher V's and slammer's) If i had to pick my favorite line it's now the Spinfisher VI !!!!
I picked up the 4500 Spinfisher vi, spooled it with 20lb power pro V2 and rigged it on a 7ft MH St Croix mojo inshore rod. I bought it to surf cast for schoolie strippers and bluefish. I throw .5oz --1.5oz lures with this set up. I have fished this set up 4-5 days a week for 4 months with no failures. My only advice for potential owners of this Penn reel and all Penn reels is, don't over spool Penn reels.
I own many Penn reels (battle 2's, spinfisher V's and slammer's) If i had to pick my favorite line it's now the Spinfisher VI !!!!
Eddie Max : I simply bought the wrong reel for the game I was after
I thought I was buying a different reel, a slammer to be exact , I was told to buy a 4500 series' I did not know there are many different models as I am a beginner.
Mike E. : Spinfisher VI 4500 BLS small but packs a punch
Purchased a 4500 bail less for Bays and ocean. Well made used it for fluke and stripers. Bucktailing along with hard plastics such as Daiwa SP Minnows. Plenty of drag, needs to be rinsed off at the end of day.
Stacy : Penn 9500
Well I'm only giving this a 2 star review. When the reel arrived the bale would not work correctly. It would not click back over after casting. This was new in the box no line on it just testing the function of the reel. will revisit when replacement reel arrives and see how it works
Update received replacement reel in a prompt manor new reel works as advertised. Happy with my purchase and customer service.
Update received replacement reel in a prompt manor new reel works as advertised. Happy with my purchase and customer service.
Michael Zajac : Still the best reel for large capacity/heavy pound line
I highly recommend this reel for any seasoned anglers out there looking for a heavy duty spinning reel capable of holding large capacities of heavy pound line. Many customers of this reel will use it for saltwater fishing, but this is also a great reel to have for all you boatless bank fishers in freshwater.
This is my first Penn Spinfisher VI, I already own several Spinfisher V models. I purchased the 6500LC this time. The casting distance on this reel paired with a 10 foot heavy rod is phenomenal. Fishing from the bank, I can easily throw an 8oz lead out twice as far the anglers next to me using conventional rod and reel combos. The build quality, just like the Spinfisher V, is study and rigid, while the operation is incredibly smooth. You can truly feel the material difference. Even with the added weight this is such a great reel to hold in your hands.
The biggest improvement compared to the Spinfisher V is that there is now an audible click now on the drag. It's great to hear a fish fighting on top of physically feeling it, so this is a very welcome change and makes heads turn when you get that big bite.
This has not been an issue, but I am not a fan of Penn including an anti-reverse switch on this model. While I am familiar with back-reeling techniques on spinning reels, I do not think they have a place on high-end heavy duty reels of this caliber. I do not know any anglers would would ever reverse reel on large fresh or saltwater fish. With the build quality Penn has accomplished, I would not expect it to fail here, but it's worth pointing out that anti-reverse switches are highly prone to failure on cheaper reels over time. This switch appears to only be present on the LC (Long-Cast) models.
This is my first Penn Spinfisher VI, I already own several Spinfisher V models. I purchased the 6500LC this time. The casting distance on this reel paired with a 10 foot heavy rod is phenomenal. Fishing from the bank, I can easily throw an 8oz lead out twice as far the anglers next to me using conventional rod and reel combos. The build quality, just like the Spinfisher V, is study and rigid, while the operation is incredibly smooth. You can truly feel the material difference. Even with the added weight this is such a great reel to hold in your hands.
The biggest improvement compared to the Spinfisher V is that there is now an audible click now on the drag. It's great to hear a fish fighting on top of physically feeling it, so this is a very welcome change and makes heads turn when you get that big bite.
This has not been an issue, but I am not a fan of Penn including an anti-reverse switch on this model. While I am familiar with back-reeling techniques on spinning reels, I do not think they have a place on high-end heavy duty reels of this caliber. I do not know any anglers would would ever reverse reel on large fresh or saltwater fish. With the build quality Penn has accomplished, I would not expect it to fail here, but it's worth pointing out that anti-reverse switches are highly prone to failure on cheaper reels over time. This switch appears to only be present on the LC (Long-Cast) models.
SERGIO L. : Great reel
Got the 9500 its huge . Big game reel
Mark : SSVI6500LL for Surf Rod
Great reel. I use the live liner feature for surf fishing and it works great. Engage the live liner drag while in the sand spike and after a strike, start reeling and the normal drag engages. Much easier than my Battle ii where the drag is set light in the sand spike and after a strike you fumble tighten the drag to fight the fish. Word of warning, forget to set the live liner while in the sand spike and if a ray or shark strikes, you’ll be chasing the rod down the beach. I also like that the new Spinfisher VI is sealed; no matter how careful you are, reels get wet at the beach.
Shane Williams : Non-Existent Quality Control
I own 7 PENN reels and 4 PENN rods, the only bad experiences I’ve ever had with their products have been with items bought on Amazon. One rod was missing a guide eye, a Slammer III that barely lasted a season, and now this reel which is completely missing parts and feels a little grindy (brand new out of the box). It doesn’t even look like the housing has the proper threads for the end cap and seal (parts 233A and 233C). I searched all packaging high and low and the parts just aren’t there.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
This item wasn’t even on sale, I could’ve gone to a reputable online tackle shop and gotten it for the same price. Sure Amazon makes it easy to return items and get a new one, but if the next one is anything but perfect I’m getting my money back, never buying fishing gear from Amazon again, and buying the same reel elsewhere. It seems like there’s no quality control here and they must be buying stock from the bottom of the barrel then passing it off as a quality product. I shouldn’t have to drive a 1 hour round trip to a UPS store just to hopefully get what I paid for a week late. This is totally unacceptable.
Evan : Worth the money!
Best of both worlds SALTWATER AND FRESH WATER FISHING!
Elchapitan : Worth it
Great reels. I own spinfisher 5 6500 and the spinfisher 6 in both 3500 and 4400 bailess. Using them a couple times a week here in the Tampa Bay Area easily horses in the snook, trout and reds all day. Just a quick freshwater rinse after every day out and I have yet to have an issue. The BLS model takes some getting used to having to swipe the line back into the reel but smooth casts across all the models I have
Amazon Customer : DOA - broken reel out of box
Amazon Customer : Not functioning when received. 2nd one in a week
When you pulled the bail over and then turned the crank to close the bail it would not close. Really disappointed especially at that price. That is my last Penn. This is the replacement for the first one and it too is defective. I will continue to buy Okuma because of quality
Mike E. : Spinfisher VI 4500 BLS small but packs a punch
Purchased a 4500 bail less for Bays and ocean. Well made used it for fluke and stripers. Bucktailing along with hard plastics such as Daiwa SP Minnows. Plenty of drag, needs to be rinsed off at the end of day.
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
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