PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel review and price compare 2025- fishinghub

Brand	Penn
Material	Stainless steel;Metal
Hand Orientation	Ambidextrous
Color	Gold, Multicolor
Handle Material	Stainless Steel
Item Weight	1 Pounds
Fishing Line Type	Multifilament
Bearing Material	Stainless Steel

Durable, high-range spinning reel ideal for conquering big saltwater gamefish
Full metal body, side plate, and rotor and heavy-duty aluminum bail wire offer exceptional durability
Specially designed to land hard hitting species
Fluid cranking with 5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings and instant anti-reverse bearing
Superline spool requires no backing, is braid ready, and has line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity

Arm yourself for the most punishing saltwater battles with the PENN Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel. Crafted from durable materials and packed with fish-fighting features, this saltwater reel is engineered to catch fish year after year. From the full metal body, side plate, and rotor to the five sealed stainless steel ball bearings, each component is designed to help you land your catch. The reel's HT-100 Versa-Drag carbon fiber drag system leverages both sides of each drag washer to provide maximum drag, and its instant anti-reverse bearing eliminates pullback so you reel without interruption. Additionally, the drag washers are treated with a proprietary grease to ensure long-lasting performance. Suitable for use with Berkley or Spiderwire Superline, the spool is fitted with a rubber gasket that prevents the Superline from slipping under pressure--meaning anglers can use braided line without a monofilament backing. And thanks to its line capacity rings, the spool displays at a glance how much line is remaining.

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 4 x 3 inches; 1 Pounds
Item model number ‏ : ‎ 1338217
Department ‏ : ‎ Unisex-adult
Date First Available ‏ : ‎ June 25, 2014
Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Pure Fishing
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00LDYJ5X0

Q:

What is the difference from the 8000 and the 1000 real. The lbs is the same on all when you click on the number.

Answer:

Q:

When the spool is rised up the bail gets stuck over it. Is that normal or is it a defect?

Answer: Not sure what you mean about the bail getting stuck over the spool. Is your bail open or closed and how does it get stuck? I ordered 2 and one of them had a spot right when the spool would reach the top while reeling it would stick a little. I decided not try and swap it out due to limited time. They both handled a heavy week of mackeral, amberjack, and shark without flaw. They were running 90lb braid and 5ft, heavy rods. I do recommend a good break down and cleaning of the internals after any extensive saltwater use.

Answer: The bail is hitting the spool when it is in the top position? This is incorrect, should not happen. Return it to us priority mail, do not insure.

Answer: That is absolutely not normal. Sounds like the bail is either bent or defective. I’d return it and Amazon has one of the best return policies you’ll find anywhere

Answer: Are you turning the bail while it’s no closed as they are a manual bail closure and will be stopped by not closing bail correctly

Answer: should not happen, is the spool all the way down on the shaft?

Answer: It's usually a bail defect, but usually slight bowing out of the bail will solve this problem.

Answer: That should not be happening . Bring to your local fishing store to have fixed r send back to your purchaser if it is within the return time .

Answer: i just got mine just an hour ago , it does the same thing (25% of the time ) , i just sent replacement request to amazon , another one will arrive tomorrow ,if it does the same i will do a refund and see another brand

Q:

How many ball bearings does it have

Answer: Silvestre, This is another example of incomplete listings on amazon. Our site has a full clear description and specs.

Answer: 5 ball bearings. Thanks for asking.

Answer: sorry i'm just getting back it has 5 ball bearings and i have 2 of these types and i love them great product!!!!!

Answer: There are 6 sealed ball bearings - not shielded but actually sealed, which really helps avoid corrosion.

Answer: The battle II line has 5 sealed ball bearings +1 The sealed system is an improvement over the original battle line.

Answer: 5 + 1 shielded SS ball bearings

Answer: 5

Q:

What size is better for 30 pound braided line?

Answer: 30 pound is way too big for a 2500. 30 pound braid on a 4000 casts horribly. I use 4000 reels with 10 pound braid mostly. I have 30 pound on a 6000 reel and landed many sharks over 100 pounds. Some closer to 200

Answer: I use the 2500 for 30 lb power pro plus. Never had a problem.

Answer: The 3000 of 4000 would both be good

Q:

Is the reel right or left handed

Answer: Sorry, the reels can be changed to right or left handed. I didn't realize the threads are reversed on one side. Please remove my comment that the reel is only right handed

Answer: The reel can be changed for right and left hand use. Unscrew the handle on one side and the cap from the other. Set it up for your correct style and attached the handle and cap.

Answer: The reel is both right or left handed. There is a cover you can unscrew to switch the handle.

Answer: It is ambidextrous. You can install the crank handle on either side.

Q:

What would be the better reel this or the pflueger president for panfish

Answer: The president is a fun lil reel. Great price too. It is tiny so if size on a 7 foot pole bothers ya then do above a 1000 series president. Ive caught bigger stuff by accident a few times and did its job. Of course the rod should be doing the work.

Answer: Probably this one in The 1000 model. I love the look and feel of it and it cast great !!! I have a Pflueger not the president but I choose the penn.

Answer: This reel would be good for any panfish. Not sure about the president.

Answer: Only used the Penn out of the two. For freshwater pan fish I use a 40 year old Diawa Regal on an equally ancient Lew's Stik. Probably the Penn Battle 2000 would be great of pan fish though - and it is all sealed and all steel, so it should last forever. I wouldn't get any larger than the 2000 for that kind of fishing though, since a blue gill is not going to run 300 yards!

Q:

I would buy this product if only you would honor free shipping to where i live,Hawaii. Please let me know if this is feasible.Mahalo!

Answer: You live on an island everything is imported have it shipped by UPS or have a friend coming to visit bring one with them

Q:

Hi seller, may i know this stuff is a usa made or china licensed product? and the product in stock?

Answer: As far as I know the penn jig master is USA made I’ve had them since 1955 and they still work

Answer: Made in china

Q:

Recommend size for Large Mouth Bass ?

Answer: 2000,2500 or 3000

Q:

What is the max drag for the 8000?

Answer: 30 lbs for the 8000

Answer: Max drag 30 pounds

Answer: 30lbs. I just used mine last week at Holden Beach NC and pulled in 2 15 pound stingrays and a 20 pound Bonnet Head shark. It is very smooth and powerful surf reel.

Answer: From Penn's material, it is 30 lbs.

Q:

Hi folks, what's a good rod to pair witha penn battle ii 3000, for general fishing use?

Answer: I bout it to pier fish at Gulf State Pier. I have it on a 1-piece 9 ft Fiberglas medium action rod and it does great

Answer: A 7’ or 7.5’ medium action graphite rod such as the St. Croix Mojo inshore or Mojo Yak.

Answer: Ugly stick gsx 2

Q:

what size reel for Amberjacks?

Answer: Larger reel than the battle II. I use a Penn 7500 SS for jacks and bull reds.

Answer: The 6000 will perform excellent

Q:

What size reel would you use for pier and surf fishing?

Answer: i would think the 4000 would take care of any normal pier fishing including flounder, trout, smaller blues and the like It would even take care of smaller reds I use mine on the pier and on my 19' cc boat

Answer: I have a 5000 and use it for a little bit of everything: surf and pier for Spanish, pompano, and mullet; inshore for red drum and speckled trout; near shore bottom fishing for whatever wants to bite. It's very versatile.

Answer: This BB reel should do the job on the pier and it’s a b perfect surf reel sealed tight to avoid getting sand and salt inside, you will not be disappointed.

Answer: WHAT IS THE BEST SIZE REEL FOR CATCHING SEA TROUT AND RED FISH?

Answer: All the sizes

Q:

Can i put 10 to 15 lb test on the btlii6000 and can i pair it with a light to medium action 6 foot rod?

Answer: sorry misunderstood the question. For fluke in NJ the 3000 or 4000 are the best size, the 6 is more for stripers.

Answer: Yes but you are nuder utilizing the reels performance. I just took 2 Penn 6000 and 1 5000 Pursuit 2 all had 30Lb braid. My 8000 Penn Battle 2 had 550 yards of 40lb braid.

Answer: the reel can take the line, not a problem.

Answer: I think it is too big for it.

Q:

How many lbs max drag for style: 6000, and style:8000? thanks

Answer: Per Penn... 30lbs on 8000 and 25lbs on 6000.

Answer: not sure that should be in the reel info on website

Q:

What type size Rod would you suggest for a Penn 3000?

Answer: I have mine on a Candence 7' medium heavy rod. I, personally, would not match this reel with an ultralight rod. This reel would be overkill for panfish. But that's just my opinion.

Answer: Get a 6-7ft ulira lite ro light action graphite spinning rod

Q:

Is this ideal for steelhead

Answer: depending on how you are fishing. this is excellent for drifting or throwing lures but not for trolling.

Answer: Maybe a little large, but It would definitely work well. I bought mine for a surf fishing spinning reel.

Answer: Oh yeah it has a fantastic drag and a high line capacity

Q:

Hi, i am locking for a good surf cast feel for mexico beach. it should gonon a 10 or 11 ft rod and hold like 250 y of 50 lbs line. which size 6000?

Answer: sounds like you are not going after babies the battle is a great reel for what you are doing 6000 would be minimun

Q:

I have the battle2 6000 combo 9ft mh. Want to put it to the test . what big fish should i target . not afraid of breaking it.

Answer: Anything you want, just depends on how long you want to fight the fish. Drag on these are pretty tough.

Answer: It is important to adjust tourq tightness not much right to not cut the line I believe It can sustain for 28 Kg fish.

Answer: I use the Penn6200 on all Ocean species. Eg king mackeral, wahoo, dolphin and cobia.

Q:

What size reel for a 7ft. Ugly stick medium heavy, 9ft. ugly stick medium, and a 10ft medium heavy Penn.? I will be using these to surf fish.

Answer: 4000 is a nice fit for a 7ft inshore surf rod. I had the 6000 for my 11’ surf rod and it worked well till one of the gears died. 8000 is for much bigger game, but if you like fighting sharks, 8000 is the least you need.

Q:

what size reel do I need for lake fishing for bass

Answer: I would go with a 1000 if you are using spectra and a 2500 if you are using mono. I have a 2500 with spectra for ocean fishing and It is way more than I need. It really is a great reel.

Answer: I have used a 2500 model for fluke, sea bass, and tog. A 1000 should be more than enough..... especially if spooled with braid

Answer: I use the 4500 for salmon, carp and cat fish.

Answer: Penn produce great reels, I own 10 . For your application I would honestly ask a local expert. I’m in NZ

Answer: 2500. I use mine from panfish to king salmon.

Q:

What is the weight of the 5000?

Answer: It's literally in the Product Details of the product page above:

Q:

Can the anti reverse be switched off so the handle can be turned backwards?

Answer: You can unscrew the handle and switch it to the other side if you prefer the handle on the other side. Most modern reels can do this.

Answer: Yes it can, but I would not recommend it. The reels are specifically designed to be used on the underside of a spinning rod, and line retrieved by the left hand while holding the rod with your right hand. It may seem awkward at first, but with a little practice, it will become second nature in no time. Some models of spinning reels have an ambidextrous handle which can be moved to either left or right side to suit the user. Not sure about your specific model. Not all have this feature. Good luck, I hope this helps you

Answer: Nope, No switch is present.

Answer: no it cannot

Answer: Yes

Q:

What lb line is best for the 1000

Answer: If you are choosing mono, the best would be 4-6lb. Could use 8lb for saltwater applications. Braid would be 10 or 15lb for most applications.

Answer: Just google the test for the 1000 I have a 6000 are use like 4050 test so you probably use like a 10 test just Google it

Answer: 10 or 12 works berry well

Q:

Is there any way to get the reel as shown in pictures?

Q:

I'm having some trouble attaching the handle on the reel. How do I do this?

Answer: Which way are you turning it on. I know righty tightly but it's the other direction lefty tighty

Answer: It just screws on

Q:

Just got a ugly stik gx2, med/heavy. i got the 5000 reel, was that the right one to get or should i have gotten a different one? (casual fishing)

Answer: 5000 might be too big and heavy considering for casual fishing.. The battle 2 is full metal. For me 3000 is good enough

Answer: For gx2 - 5000 reel is good. But for sturgeon for example is a little week . I use 7000 and 8000 for action 20/50

Answer: I didn't have any luck with the Penn reels I returned and exchanged 2 2000's and went with a Pflueger 6930 good luck; if it won't cast braid consider a Pflueger. Ugly stick is all I use, had a 30=LB carp snagged an rod was bent double, landed it and let it go.

Answer: Sounds like a good combination. I am big on the Penn Battle II - great reels. I have an ugly stick bait cast rod which I use for bass fishing and like that brand as well. I am mostly salt water, sight fishing in the bay for reds and trout, and use lighter gear with a Penn Battle II 2000.

Answer: That's perfect, not too big and not too small. Happy fishing.

Answer: Probably should have got a smaller size.

Answer: You should be ok. Great real!

Q:

Which one is best for casual bass fishing-ugly stik gx2?

Answer: As others have said, for casual bass fishing go with the 2500 or 3000 though, in my opinion, the 3000 is pushing it (I have the 3000).

Answer: Depends on whether you want to yank them in with a winch or make it more of a challenge. I like my 2500 for bass. Here's a link to the Penn page. http://www.pennfishing.com/penn-reels-spinning-reels-penn-battle/penn-battle-ii-spinning/1347894.html#specifications

Answer: 2500 to 3000

Q:

Can the 8000 handle say a 180 blue fin ?

Answer: No

Q:

what is the drag rated on the 5000?

Answer: Max Drag 25lb/11.3kg

Answer: The Penn website has all the information you would ever want to know about their reels

Q:

can i do 25lb braided on the 2500

Answer: It will work fine that’s what I have on mine a little less capacity but casts well

Q:

What size reel is this?

Answer: Size: 8000 (BTLIII8000)

Answer: It is on the larger side of the spinning reel spectrum. The 8000 I have is large enough for almost any fish in the gulf of Mexico.

Answer: Yes. I tend to believe any fisherman, whether saltwater or fresh, needs at least one 8000 with 80-100 lbs line. I have recently purchased five 8000 Penn ( Wrath, Pursuit lV, 2-Fierce lll) and Dawia BG 8000 Saltwater. I mainly use them for surf fishing. It’s a family thing with my daughter and her friends.

Answer: The 8000 is around one kilo without the rod. It’s heavy enough to take on just about anything in the Gulf of Mexico if set up properly.

Q:

Penn rampage jigging heavy 5'8" rod and a 6000 battle II reel, is this a good set up for yellowtail?

Answer: This is a good set up but I like a 7 ft rod that’s my own preference you can cast a little better and handle the fish at boat side

Q:

Can someone recommend a fishing rod compatible with this reel? i was told that i needed at least a 10 ft rod for striped bass in red river, texas.

Answer: You don't need a 10 foot rod for this reel. I pair the reel with a 7 foot Penn Slammer Rod and I get a decent distance when casting. I go for large mouth bass in a lake here in Florida and have caught up to 6 pounders with no problems. With at least a 7 foot medium to medium/heavy action rod, you should be fine.

Answer: Got it, dam fishing .. yes it would be similar to what we would call a surf-casting rod. I would be wary of rods that have ceramic eye inserts in the line guides(from Shakespeare). You may pay a bit more but may look at PENN rods, I have a lower end Fierce rod w/ PENN reel .. no complaints. would look at surf-casting rods you may see other models/makes that would fit the length and size need as well. ...85.00 is a really good deal for the Battle II,(they wanted 119 at a local boat show, Look at a PENN Torque and Prevail lines.. the Torque line has Full S/S eyelets..

Answer: I have two Ugly Stick Elite 7'2 spinning (USESP701MH) rods medium heavy action (50.00 each) I have more expensive rods.. but gravitate to the ugly sticks. , both outfitted with the battle II 4000.. Great set up.. I use a 30 lbs braided line .. Catch Redfish that pull the boat around.. give them a bit of drag and hold on for the ride. Shakespeare was really good on a couple of older rods that had eyelet problems .. they discounted the new rods to 20 bucks each.. very satisfied , and they have a good warranty program on the Elites.. HOLD ON TO YOUR RECEIPT THOUGH.

Answer: I use an ugly stick with mine. I fish from a kayak. I also use it for surf fishing. My ugly stick is just under 7'.

Q:

What size reel and line weight is best for catfish up to 30 lbs. ?

Answer: Would probably go for size 5000+, to have larger spool size and drag force

Q:

Can't find the capacity of different models. bought one 2000. too small. not sure if 6000 satisfies. my line is 0.61mm diameter.

Answer: I am not sure, but the 6000 has a much larger spool than the 2000.

Answer: http://www.pennfishing.com/penn-reels-spinning-reels-penn-battle/penn-battle-ii-spinning/1347894.html

Q:

New to fishing, would this work in fresh water okay? Like for bass? Or mainly for just salt water?

Answer: Hello

Answer: Yes! This reel is suitable for fishing in fresh water 'or' salt water. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance, we're here to help you with all your fishing needs!

Answer: I use the reel for both saltwater and freshwater and it works great for both. If it's partially designed for saltwater, it'll just last that much longer in freshwater.

Answer: This would be fine for fresh water fishing.

Answer: I would use it in fresh water, great reel for both fresh or salt.

Answer: Yes sir for sure it will.. it's an amazing reel.

Answer: What pole will pair best with this reel for salt/freshwater

Answer: I use mine for both. This is a great reel. It will last for a long time with lots of abuse.

Answer: will this reel be compatible with a 9 ft med/light rod/

Q:

Es izquierdo o derecho?

Answer: derecho

Answer: Pescas con derecha, lo manipulas con la izquierda. Pero creo que se puede cambiar de lado.

Q:

What pound test do i put on the 5000? Going after cobia, snapper, wahoo, king mackerel. Thanks!

Answer: I tend to fish rather light and I target the same species as you with the exception of Wahoo. Never caught one of them. I also am a pier fisherman. With that being said, my “big fish” set up is a Penn Battle II 4000 loaded with Trilene XT 15# mono w/#6 treble hook on a 27# single strand steel leader. I fish a lot lighter than most other pier fisherman, but it pays of in a higher strike rate. Once hooked up, I depend on the awesome drag system on my reel to handle the fish and it does a fantastic job. Hope this helps and good luck

Answer: 18 pound test Stren braid. You have to use your skills to land a 30 pound fish. Very little stretch with this type of line. That's why it's called fishing, and not catching.

Answer: You would be good to go with a nice brand of 30-40lb test. I use braid for my saltwater surf fishing setups but mono on my off shore reels.

Answer: 20 # test should get the job done, certainly not more than 30#

Answer: Use 30lbs test

Q:

How much line does this hold?

Answer: Depends on the size and species targeted. It holds more braid than mono.

Answer: Depends on if your using braid or or conventional line, and how many pound test.

Answer: You didn’t say what lb test you’ll use I pack morel with 30 lb braid with 200 yards and the backing with mono 100 yds

Answer: Depends on size but I believe 280 yds 20# test

Answer: You can get that information on any Penn reel at Pennfishing.com. It will give tou the mono and braid capacities.

Answer: 400 yds of 15# test mono, 350 of 20#, 250 of 30#

Q:

What model would be best all around for crappie, bass, and occasional catfish (up to 15-20lbs), on a 6ft or 6ft 6in medium ugly stik (i have both)

Answer: Hello

Q:

is this item applicable with saltwater?

Answer: Hi Samer... this item is applicable for saltwater and freshwater use. Thanks!

Answer: It's made for saltwater use

Answer: Yes this will work fine in a salt water environment. It is what I use but like any reel you will want to rinse

Answer: Yes it is, but I suggest spraying down with fresh water after every use, because salt is corrosive I use a spray bottle for light mist

Answer: Yes it is. Best reel I have and fish the intercoastal and the gulf weekly with it

Answer: Definitely. Have 2 and use for redfish and trout in SC, FL and LA

Answer: Oh yes, I would recommend the 8000 size if you're doing any offshore.

Answer: Yes

Q:

What size reel for ugly stik tiger elite 7foot heavy 14-40lbs

Answer: penn battle 11 6000 reel should work fine! hope this was some help!

Q:

Is this the newest models of Battle II?

Answer: I don't know. I bought from Amazon prime. But I read some review. It isn't real sealed reel. If some saltwater comes in. The reel will stick on some point.

Answer: I really don't know I bought for my grandson he loves it and has had a lot of commits

Q:

What is the best size for freshwater fishing - bass, walleye, panfish, etc? Fish under 20-25#.

Answer: I would use a 2500 or 3000.

Q:

What is the warranty?

Answer: 1 year from date of purchase , but not cover from missed used

Q:

Para pez vidriola de 10 kg. Sirve?

Answer: Hola soy de Argentina , aqui no se conoce ese pez, yo lo uso para pesca liviana maximo 2.5 kg . recojiendo con el carrete regulando para no romper.

Q:

Will the 4000 model reel work well with my Fenwick 6 foot Hooksetter Graphite pole

Answer: i believe it will work just fine I have two one on a one piece 6' and the other on a two piece 7.5 medium graphite both are great

Answer: Certainly you will be happy with this reel on a 6 ft. rod. I use mine on a light 7' rod.

Q:

Hola, el carrete es para uso de mano izquierda y derecha?

Answer: Mano derecha

Answer: Siiii solo se afloja el power handle y se cambia de lugar puedes ver mis videos en YouTube mar-ven fishing

Q:

I wanna run 8 to 10lb test. Which model would be best?

Answer: I have found that the 2500 or 3000 models do well with 8 or 10lbtest

Answer: I run 10 lb power pro on the 2000 for throwing plastics on a 6'6" med fast rod

Answer: 2500 or 3500

AMNSBFL : I like my reels

I use my TWO Penn Battles for inshore saltwater fishing in Florida. I use one for live bait and the other for jigging. After a lot of research I bought these and I am glad I did. I highly recommend them. And Amazon's price was right too....

Dave : Ready for Battle

Good value. Desirable features. Not water proof like some reels but should hold up well for most conditions encountered on the jetty, the surf, or boat.

westleyLAKE : not a good reel. not smooth

This is not a good reel. It is not smooth when you retrieve the line. It seems pausing at certain points just the way cheap reels behave. my shimano spheros is much better and costs only a few more dollars.

Missie Michael Alex : Over priced paper weight.

I bought this reel because a friend told me I should try a penn reel. I have pretty much used shimano and abu Garcia forever. When I receiver the first reel. I noticed while retrieving a slight knock the first time I used it. Not a big deal but I did a little research and found that penn tells you it is normal. The next time I used the reel the knocking got worse. I then called penn and sent the reel back. They replaced the gears in the reel and returned it back to me. This process took about a week. So the next time I went fishing the reel did the exact same thing plus it tightened up one time while retrieving and spooled all the line at the top of the spool. I then called penn back and they once again took the reel back to fix it. After I told them the reel tightened and spooled at the top they replaced the reel all together. This process took a little over a week. I then went fishing again. This reel does the exact same thing just not as bad yet. Again penn told me that a little knocking is normal in there reels. So if you want a reel that is smooth all the way through. Stay away from this reel. At 80$ this reel is probably only going to be good for a paper weight.

W : Buttery smooth

Love this fishing reel. Feels smooth and casts a mile. Very easy to disassemble and clean. Used it over a hundred times at least and still feels as smooth as the day I bought it. Very much worth the price.

Bern : Great reel

My wide and I have one of these each. We use them for Salmon and steelhead fishing. They preform well. They are very responsive and feel like they can take a beating. They are slightly heavy, but not a concern because we bought a large reel for a reason. The weight is a non issue. I would buy them again.

scomo321 : Great reel for salt water

I have always been a fan of Penn reels and this one did not disappoint.
I use if for in-shore fishing and it works great.
Smooth action, solid gears.
No issues with salt water intrusion (though I always rinse with fresh water just in case).

superglide2004 : Love my Penn reels

Just bought another Penn Battle this is my 4th one . I have Penn Fierce reels as well but this 4000 battle is hands down my favorite go to reel. I'm fishing salt and freshwater and these Penn reels perform flawlessly . I take these out with confidence knowing a good day of fishing without reel problems is what I'm getting . Can't go wrong on a Penn reel ....proud owner of 5 Penn fierce and 4 Penn Battle from the 2500 to the 8000 models.

Chris : Too much heavy grease, reels stiff!

This is the 2nd newer Penn reel that I purchased over the last couple years. The other is a Spinfisher 3k. Like my Spinfisher the gear housing is packed with so much thick blue grease the reel reels stiffly, like there is resistance on it. This makes the reels unusable in my opinion.

My older Penn reels are smooth and easy to reel, my Shims on reels are smooth and easy to reel.

I am not sure what Penn is doing but unless they address this issue this will be the last Penn spinning reel I will buy.

Ricardo : bang for bucks.

Nice penn reel for my 10ft ugly stik.nice smooth strong retrieve using 8oz weights from shore all day punkin leopards,stripers etc.

Israel Irizarry : Heavy Duty Components

This is my 3rd Penn Battle II. Have a 3000, a 4000, and now this 6000. We are an active flats fishing family. Always relied on Penn for our redfish hunting. Have several Fierce reels for friends we bring fishing, but trust our Battle IIs for our battles. We’ve battle the occasional Bonnet Head and Spinner shark that get hooked out here in Cedar Key. Even our Battle II 3000 effortlessly land these sharks. Must mention that first 6000 I ordered was defective. Apparently it was a return — it reeled fine, but would not move spool in and out (stripped gears??). Return and replacement was very easy. Replacement was sent immediately. Prepaid return instructions were also sent immediately. I got to try it with an “unwanted” good size stingray - - worth the investment!

Larry Sockwell : Great reel.

My first nice spinning reel. I couldn't ask for a better reel. I've used more expensive ones but this is the best for the money, and among the best period, that I've ever used.

Israel Irizarry : Heavy Duty Components

This is my 3rd Penn Battle II. Have a 3000, a 4000, and now this 6000. We are an active flats fishing family. Always relied on Penn for our redfish hunting. Have several Fierce reels for friends we bring fishing, but trust our Battle IIs for our battles. We’ve battle the occasional Bonnet Head and Spinner shark that get hooked out here in Cedar Key. Even our Battle II 3000 effortlessly land these sharks. Must mention that first 6000 I ordered was defective. Apparently it was a return — it reeled fine, but would not move spool in and out (stripped gears??). Return and replacement was very easy. Replacement was sent immediately. Prepaid return instructions were also sent immediately. I got to try it with an “unwanted” good size stingray - - worth the investment!

Israel Irizarry : Heavy Duty Components

This is my 3rd Penn Battle II. Have a 3000, a 4000, and now this 6000. We are an active flats fishing family. Always relied on Penn for our redfish hunting. Have several Fierce reels for friends we bring fishing, but trust our Battle IIs for our battles. We’ve battle the occasional Bonnet Head and Spinner shark that get hooked out here in Cedar Key. Even our Battle II 3000 effortlessly land these sharks. Must mention that first 6000 I ordered was defective. Apparently it was a return — it reeled fine, but would not move spool in and out (stripped gears??). Return and replacement was very easy. Replacement was sent immediately. Prepaid return instructions were also sent immediately. I got to try it with an “unwanted” good size stingray - - worth the investment!

superglide2004 : Love my Penn reels

Just bought another Penn Battle this is my 4th one . I have Penn Fierce reels as well but this 4000 battle is hands down my favorite go to reel. I'm fishing salt and freshwater and these Penn reels perform flawlessly . I take these out with confidence knowing a good day of fishing without reel problems is what I'm getting . Can't go wrong on a Penn reel ....proud owner of 5 Penn fierce and 4 Penn Battle from the 2500 to the 8000 models.

Chad Takakura : Good reel for the price

I recently purchased the penn battle 2 6000 series. It's a little heavier than the BG 4500 which is comparable in size but much beefier ( bail is thicker). I've caught some big saltwater fish with this reel. The drag is smooth and has some real stopping power. If you want a reel for around the $80.00 mark, I would recommend that you give this reel a try. Chad

JB : A good solid reel

I love the Battle II series of reels. They balance extremely well on a rod, and are very smooth, with superb drag system. And, they're affordable.

BAC : If you like overbuilt, solid and dependable... go PENN

Great value, seems almost overbuilt with its weight, but that’s a good thing in my opinion. I use the 3000 with a 6.5 medium action for wade fishing. It handled a nice 20.5” trout as it’s first official bite and retrieved beautiful. Highly recommend for saltwater use.

tyteline : QUALITY, LIGHT, RIGID REEL.

I bought the PENN BATTLE 2 4000 for mostly so.cal. surf fishing. I've been fishing for over 50 years for everything from bluegills to blue fin tuna. I bought it for casting jerk baits, lead heads, and small irons with a Shimano 10' stick. I spooled up with 20lb. braid directly to the reel(no mono backing needed with the rubber gasket on the spool, though some people still like a mono backing) to the top fill line. 30lb. mono leader, and I was very happy with the performance, from the way the bail clicks into place when open and stays there, to how smooth and quite it is. the HT-100 drag system is a reliable, tough and is a long lasting set up. I have not had any wind knots or issues with line coming on and off in a weird way. After fifty or so casts I can really feel the difference with that light weight reel. It's half the weight of my older 4000 size reels. I'm also getting a quicker release when casting with less weight, which translate to way more distance for me. The components of this reel are what set it apart from others in this price range. I looked at others, and they are good as well. I would recommend this reel primarily for the drag system and overall feel over the DAIWA BG for instance. I hope this helped you.

Amazon Customer : May be seconds or counterfeit

First time I used this reel in the surf it started binding on retrieve; after a little bit it started retrieving smoothly. But the next time I used it the same thing happened. The second day it froze up all together. I have a couple of other cheaper reels that are 5 years old and I rinse them all the same way. The older cheaper reels are still working fine. That's why I think that a top brand like Penn would not have produced this product. I would have sent it back but after using it once in salt water 6 months after purchase I figured it would be suspicious to try to send back. I tried to clean it out and re-grease it but its got some major defect as that did not help. Really disappointed in the amount of money I spent for something that I thought would last a long time.

hawaiian angler : Too bad so sad

bought this reel 2 times thinking it was just coincidence that the first one got sticky on cranking in fish brand new outta box...Had it serviced and in the mean time ordered another..Too bad so sad, got hosed again and the same problem occurred. Penn quality has never been so low. no more Penns for me

Motherofdragonz : What I expect from Penn!

Spent about a week in Matagorda, TX fishing with this reel. Great quality, smooth, and fit and finish is too notch. Will continue to purchase Penn reels.

Roy Cormack : Great reel but for the anti-reverse switch

I stripped down the reel upon receiving it. This is what I found. The reel is all non-corrosive metal, very little plastic in this reel. It has simple locomotive gearing and is mostly well designed and made. The reel was missing the washers to the three side plate screws. This caused the reel to be harder to crank than it should. Backing off the screws freed up the reel. The reel is now very easy turning and smooth. I put in an order for the washers. I could return it, but its no big deal.

Penn puts their blue grease everywhere in this reel. This is generally a good thing. I however removed it from the drive shaft and line bushing and replaced with Penn reel oil. The reel now is easier to turn than it was out of the box.

Non-sealed saltwater reels should be easy to take apart and put back together because if you dunk one that is what you will be doing. This is for the most part true of the 2500 Battle. There are no side plate screws hidden under the rotor. You therefore can take off the side plate for service and inspection without taking off the rotor. The screws don’t get boogered up with standard screwdrivers and are easy to take off.

However, Penn departed from their easy to service design philosophy on the roller bearing and anti-reverse switch. It’s like they were an after thought. The roller (anti-reverse) bearing is a 10-piece affair that will come apart in your hand when you take it out. Penn added an anti-reverse switch on this smaller model. To activate the A/R, it relies on a tiny spring that looks like it belongs in a watch. Penn really dropped the ball IMO on the design of the roller bearing assembly and anti reverse switch. They are way too difficult to put back together and if the spring corrodes and breaks you have no anti-reverse. The 3000 and up models don’t have an anti reverse switch and look to have a one-piece roller bearing.

The reel has a plate to keep the rotor nut from coming loose. The plate is held in with one screw. Penn put two screw holes in the rotor to screw the plate in to. You pick whichever one you need. This extra hole goes uncovered and is an entry point for saltwater to get under the rotor. Come no Penn, what were you all thinking?

The reel has a screw in handle. I like this better than a pin type handle that you insert into the reel and screw down with a retaining cap on the other side of the body. The reel feels very solid when you turn the handle with very little play.

The Battle has a bushing for the line roller, no bearing here. I prefer this design as it is more reliable and easier to service. This is an area where they saved cost with no decrease in performance. Ditto the reel handle, no bearings here either, again one less bearing to replace from saltwater intrusion. I personally think bearings on the line roller and handle are a sales gimmick with no advantage in a small reel.

I like this reel allot. It is all metal and has sealed bearings for less than $100 shipped. However, if you are going to service and repair your reels yourself, can live without the anti-reverse switch and don’t mind a little more weight, I would get the 3000. The 3000 doesn’t have that multi-piece roller bearing and anti-reverse switch. I will keep this reel for my kid’s rod, but will buy 3000 sizes for my other inshore rods.

I took off a star for the multi-piece roller bearing assembly and an anti-reverse switch with a tiny spring.

Allan Wood : NEVER buy blind on the internet

I was looking for an open face surf fishing reel. Something that could handle a 25lb stingray. I got this. Well, I think I'd strip the gears out of it before everything is said and done. It's smooth, and I'm sure durable since it's a Penn reel, but NOT being able to see it in person, touch it, match it up to what you need, you get burned....or at least I do. That's one of the reasons I don't buy clothes on the internet....

scomo321 : Great reel for salt water

I have always been a fan of Penn reels and this one did not disappoint.
I use if for in-shore fishing and it works great.
Smooth action, solid gears.
No issues with salt water intrusion (though I always rinse with fresh water just in case).

Jason Supertramp : Good for the price, but if you want weather proof you’ll have to go up a notch to the Clash.

I like it but my only complaint is it cant handle adverse weather very well. Started to make noises after it was eposed to rain. You’d think it would be sealed well enough to handle rain. Still, a very good reel and will be buying another one (with the awareness that Ill have to keep up on the oil).

Desi-man : It's a Penn

It's a Penn so the quality is there. I really like the 2500 for speckled trout fishing. I throw jig bait with 10 lb mono. I like the 2500 for this better then the 2000. Glad they added this size to the line up

Fred Block : Spectacular value for an ultra light reel!

Top value and silky smooth, Penn is my goto for spinning reels. The Battle III 1000 is my favorite UL reel to date (I upgraded from a Fierce 1000 to get sealed bearings). Hands down the reel is a pleasure. Holds plenty of light braided line and just performs so well! Highly recommend!

James Smith : Mercedes of Reels

These reels are like a Mercedes Benz, if you drive one it will be the only vehicle you want. Fishing with Peen reels are the same way, once you use one, it will be the one you will buy.

robvi : Buena compra

Es grande si pesa un poco , los brakets para ponerlo en la caña sin un poco más gruesos que los de uno “normal” , da seguridad oara más de 39 libras , recorrido suave

Alex : Great all around performance!

I bought this reel for my surf fishing setup and it has been fantastic. Havent had any issues with it so far. The reel feels and functions as a premium device but I managed to get mine on a sale so it did not have a premium price tag. I would highly recommend this reel for most saltwater surf/dock fishing! I will update months down the road.

Travis : The gearing on this reel is amazing for fast retrieval

I fish the surf in Delaware USA .This reel plus 50lb spider braided line on a 12 foot uglistick, I can nearly reach England. The gearing on this reel is amazing for fast retrieval. In fact, I recently caught a drunk Manchester United soccer fan. I had to throw him back unfortunately. he would have looked awesome above my mantle. at any rate, yes, this reel is awesome. Yes, you will catch fish with it, and yes, you can cast far and smooth and retrieve fast. I highly recommend this if you want to fish. If you want to be like most people around here though and just drive onto the beach and chill with music, well, you need to find another beach sir. We are fishing here with out Penn Battle II 8000 reels. Find your own sand.

William : This is a great reel. I would buy it all over again ...

This is a great reel. I would buy it all over again but the fishing I bought it for is for fresh water fishing in the Rio Paraguay/Pantanal region of Brazil using 50 Lb test. If I had to purchase this over again I would consider the next size down. It is a little bulky but it holds plenty of line. I have caught plenty of fish on this reel and there is nothing wrong with it and it appears to be the highest quality. This includes two different fishing trips to the Pantanal.

BAC : If you like overbuilt, solid and dependable... go PENN

Great value, seems almost overbuilt with its weight, but that’s a good thing in my opinion. I use the 3000 with a 6.5 medium action for wade fishing. It handled a nice 20.5” trout as it’s first official bite and retrieved beautiful. Highly recommend for saltwater use.

4strokes : Will out cast most in it's class & is smooth.

I like everything about this reel, good build quality & super smooth.
The drag is rated at 9lbs. but I'd bet it will out perform the ratings, I fish Lake Guntersville a lot & there is a some BIG Bass in this lake si I'm sure it'll get the chance to prove itself sooner than later :)
I loaded it with 20lb. Berkley 9X braid & it will easily cast a 3/8oz. lure 160' consistently & will also throw finese worms farther than you'll want them to go.
What's' not to like about this reel, nothing I can find.

Motherofdragonz : What I expect from Penn!

Spent about a week in Matagorda, TX fishing with this reel. Great quality, smooth, and fit and finish is too notch. Will continue to purchase Penn reels.

scomo321 : Great reel for salt water

I have always been a fan of Penn reels and this one did not disappoint.
I use if for in-shore fishing and it works great.
Smooth action, solid gears.
No issues with salt water intrusion (though I always rinse with fresh water just in case).

4strokes : Will out cast most in it's class & is smooth.

I like everything about this reel, good build quality & super smooth.
The drag is rated at 9lbs. but I'd bet it will out perform the ratings, I fish Lake Guntersville a lot & there is a some BIG Bass in this lake si I'm sure it'll get the chance to prove itself sooner than later :)
I loaded it with 20lb. Berkley 9X braid & it will easily cast a 3/8oz. lure 160' consistently & will also throw finese worms farther than you'll want them to go.
What's' not to like about this reel, nothing I can find.

Christopher Croom : About As Good As It Gets for the Price

I used this to replace a Daiwa that is getting harder and harder to crank after being used in one of the harshest environments for reels I've ever fished in. The Battle II has held up far better and longer, and the sealed bearings make a big difference. I think I've caught close to 50 fish with it already, and the drag has always been smooth. Great for fluorocarbon line!

DZ : Nice reel!

So far liking this reel. Only used it once but very smooth operating reel, and being the 5000 a bit more power. Nice having the 25lbs of max drag on it. Can angle at some bigger fish and handle with no problem. Im looking at getting a battle II 6000 next.

Roy Cormack : Great reel but for the anti-reverse switch

I stripped down the reel upon receiving it. This is what I found. The reel is all non-corrosive metal, very little plastic in this reel. It has simple locomotive gearing and is mostly well designed and made. The reel was missing the washers to the three side plate screws. This caused the reel to be harder to crank than it should. Backing off the screws freed up the reel. The reel is now very easy turning and smooth. I put in an order for the washers. I could return it, but its no big deal.

Penn puts their blue grease everywhere in this reel. This is generally a good thing. I however removed it from the drive shaft and line bushing and replaced with Penn reel oil. The reel now is easier to turn than it was out of the box.

Non-sealed saltwater reels should be easy to take apart and put back together because if you dunk one that is what you will be doing. This is for the most part true of the 2500 Battle. There are no side plate screws hidden under the rotor. You therefore can take off the side plate for service and inspection without taking off the rotor. The screws don’t get boogered up with standard screwdrivers and are easy to take off.

However, Penn departed from their easy to service design philosophy on the roller bearing and anti-reverse switch. It’s like they were an after thought. The roller (anti-reverse) bearing is a 10-piece affair that will come apart in your hand when you take it out. Penn added an anti-reverse switch on this smaller model. To activate the A/R, it relies on a tiny spring that looks like it belongs in a watch. Penn really dropped the ball IMO on the design of the roller bearing assembly and anti reverse switch. They are way too difficult to put back together and if the spring corrodes and breaks you have no anti-reverse. The 3000 and up models don’t have an anti reverse switch and look to have a one-piece roller bearing.

The reel has a plate to keep the rotor nut from coming loose. The plate is held in with one screw. Penn put two screw holes in the rotor to screw the plate in to. You pick whichever one you need. This extra hole goes uncovered and is an entry point for saltwater to get under the rotor. Come no Penn, what were you all thinking?

The reel has a screw in handle. I like this better than a pin type handle that you insert into the reel and screw down with a retaining cap on the other side of the body. The reel feels very solid when you turn the handle with very little play.

The Battle has a bushing for the line roller, no bearing here. I prefer this design as it is more reliable and easier to service. This is an area where they saved cost with no decrease in performance. Ditto the reel handle, no bearings here either, again one less bearing to replace from saltwater intrusion. I personally think bearings on the line roller and handle are a sales gimmick with no advantage in a small reel.

I like this reel allot. It is all metal and has sealed bearings for less than $100 shipped. However, if you are going to service and repair your reels yourself, can live without the anti-reverse switch and don’t mind a little more weight, I would get the 3000. The 3000 doesn’t have that multi-piece roller bearing and anti-reverse switch. I will keep this reel for my kid’s rod, but will buy 3000 sizes for my other inshore rods.

I took off a star for the multi-piece roller bearing assembly and an anti-reverse switch with a tiny spring.

Anna : Disappointed

Locked up on the very first use. Its been more than 30 days so i cant return it.

Fred Block : Spectacular value for an ultra light reel!

Top value and silky smooth, Penn is my goto for spinning reels. The Battle III 1000 is my favorite UL reel to date (I upgraded from a Fierce 1000 to get sealed bearings). Hands down the reel is a pleasure. Holds plenty of light braided line and just performs so well! Highly recommend!

Christopher Croom : About As Good As It Gets for the Price

I used this to replace a Daiwa that is getting harder and harder to crank after being used in one of the harshest environments for reels I've ever fished in. The Battle II has held up far better and longer, and the sealed bearings make a big difference. I think I've caught close to 50 fish with it already, and the drag has always been smooth. Great for fluorocarbon line!

Amazon Customer : Great reel although fish still laugh at me

I'm somewhere between a novice and mid-experience fisherman and this reel is great for my purposes. Mostly used for pond fishing with all different types of lures. It had great play and quick/easy tension setting on bass ranging between one and six pounds. Absolutely no complaints although I never knew that fish could laugh at me spending hours at the pond without a bite....not the reel's fault though.

Jonathan Homesley : Great Reel for the Money, One Minor Complaint

Purchased the 5000 size. Overall I’m happy with the reel. The fit and finish is tight/clean. Drag is strong. Casts well. I’ve mostly been fishing bottom rigs on the surf w 2/3/4 oz weights on a 9’ heavy rod.

My one complaint about the reel is that the handle can come loose by reeling backwards. In my opinion, there ought to be a screw that threads into the handle from the other side of the reel.

dave805 : California surf perching

This reel was a great pick for surf perch after cleaning all the garbage blue grease they put in it very smooth reeling in casting was a breeze. Large non slip handle.
The reel i bought was the 2000. the 2500 was actually made for us socal perch guys but i still considered it to big for my ultra light setup. See you at 5th street!!

Setup:
Diawa presso 8feet
Penn battle 2000
Pline floro clear 8lb 50 ft about 100 yards 15 lb braid
Setup Carolina rig

JJSFla : Good quality reel

Using this for medium salt water fishing, only had it out a few times but it casts well and handled fish well.

Sean T. : Heavy-duty

Purchased for catfishing, this reel is HEAAAAAVY. It's tight as a drum, drag is amazing. But I will say it again, heavy heavy heavy. The quality is outstanding though, and the large knob on the handle feels great on the retrieve.

Bookie_Monster : WOW, really good.....

If you are a regular fisherman this seems to be very good quality. I use this reel once or twice a week, because of its quality build I fully expect it to stand the test of time.

PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel review and price compare 2025

Product overview

product features

product description

product details

important information

Questions about PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel

What is the difference from the 8000 and the 1000 real. The lbs is the same on all when you click on the number.

When the spool is rised up the bail gets stuck over it. Is that normal or is it a defect?

How many ball bearings does it have

What size is better for 30 pound braided line?

Is the reel right or left handed

What would be the better reel this or the pflueger president for panfish

I would buy this product if only you would honor free shipping to where i live,Hawaii. Please let me know if this is feasible.Mahalo!

Hi seller, may i know this stuff is a usa made or china licensed product? and the product in stock?

Recommend size for Large Mouth Bass ?

What is the max drag for the 8000?

Hi folks, what's a good rod to pair witha penn battle ii 3000, for general fishing use?

what size reel for Amberjacks?

What size reel would you use for pier and surf fishing?

Can i put 10 to 15 lb test on the btlii6000 and can i pair it with a light to medium action 6 foot rod?

How many lbs max drag for style: 6000, and style:8000? thanks

What type size Rod would you suggest for a Penn 3000?

Is this ideal for steelhead

Hi, i am locking for a good surf cast feel for mexico beach. it should gonon a 10 or 11 ft rod and hold like 250 y of 50 lbs line. which size 6000?

I have the battle2 6000 combo 9ft mh. Want to put it to the test . what big fish should i target . not afraid of breaking it.

What size reel for a 7ft. Ugly stick medium heavy, 9ft. ugly stick medium, and a 10ft medium heavy Penn.? I will be using these to surf fish.

what size reel do I need for lake fishing for bass

What is the weight of the 5000?

Can the anti reverse be switched off so the handle can be turned backwards?

What lb line is best for the 1000

Is there any way to get the reel as shown in pictures?

I'm having some trouble attaching the handle on the reel. How do I do this?

Just got a ugly stik gx2, med/heavy. i got the 5000 reel, was that the right one to get or should i have gotten a different one? (casual fishing)

Which one is best for casual bass fishing-ugly stik gx2?

Can the 8000 handle say a 180 blue fin ?

what is the drag rated on the 5000?

can i do 25lb braided on the 2500

What size reel is this?

Penn rampage jigging heavy 5'8" rod and a 6000 battle II reel, is this a good set up for yellowtail?

Can someone recommend a fishing rod compatible with this reel? i was told that i needed at least a 10 ft rod for striped bass in red river, texas.

What size reel and line weight is best for catfish up to 30 lbs. ?

Can't find the capacity of different models. bought one 2000. too small. not sure if 6000 satisfies. my line is 0.61mm diameter.

New to fishing, would this work in fresh water okay? Like for bass? Or mainly for just salt water?

Es izquierdo o derecho?

What pound test do i put on the 5000? Going after cobia, snapper, wahoo, king mackerel. Thanks!

How much line does this hold?

What model would be best all around for crappie, bass, and occasional catfish (up to 15-20lbs), on a 6ft or 6ft 6in medium ugly stik (i have both)

is this item applicable with saltwater?

What size reel for ugly stik tiger elite 7foot heavy 14-40lbs

Is this the newest models of Battle II?

What is the best size for freshwater fishing - bass, walleye, panfish, etc? Fish under 20-25#.

What is the warranty?

Para pez vidriola de 10 kg. Sirve?

Will the 4000 model reel work well with my Fenwick 6 foot Hooksetter Graphite pole

Hola, el carrete es para uso de mano izquierda y derecha?

I wanna run 8 to 10lb test. Which model would be best?

Product reviews of PENN Battle II & III Spinning Fishing Reel