PENN Rival II 20 Level Wind Line Counter

The PENN Rival II 20 Level Wind Line Counter reel is a compact and highly functional conventional reel designed for anglers who prioritize precision and control. This model is a smaller counterpart to the Rival II 30, making it ideal for lighter applications while still offering the rugged durability and key features PENN is known for.

Key Design Features

• Right Hand Retrieve: This is the standard configuration for this reel, designed for anglers who are right-handed and prefer to hold the rod with their left hand and retrieve with their dominant right hand.
• Level Wind System: This is a crucial, integrated feature that automatically spools the line evenly across the reel’s arbor during retrieval. This prevents line from bunching up on one side of the spool, which can lead to frustrating tangles and lost fish. It also helps to improve casting distance and the overall performance of the reel.
• Line Counter: The built-in line counter is the most valuable feature of this reel. It provides a real-time, accurate measurement of the line that has been deployed, displayed in feet or meters. This is an indispensable tool for:
  • Trolling: To precisely set multiple lures at the exact same depth and distance from the boat.
  • Bottom Fishing: To drop jigs or bait to a specific depth where a school of fish is marked on a fish finder or to target a specific piece of structure.
  • Jigging: To return to the strike zone with confidence and precision.

Reel Construction and Technology

• Frame and Sideplates: The Rival II 20 is built on a lightweight yet durable graphite frame with matching sideplates. The use of graphite makes the reel comfortable to hold for extended periods and provides excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion. The frame is reinforced with aluminum rings for added rigidity, which prevents flex under heavy loads and ensures the internal gears remain perfectly aligned.
• Drag System: The reel is equipped with PENN’s legendary HT-100™ carbon fiber drag washers. This advanced drag system is known for its smooth, consistent, and powerful stopping power. The carbon fiber material effectively dissipates heat generated during a prolonged run, preventing the drag from becoming “jerky” or fading. The maximum drag for this model is a respectable 15 lbs (6.8 kg), providing ample power for its size class.
• Gearing: The Rival II 20 utilizes a robust gearing system consisting of a marine-grade bronze alloy main gear and a machine-cut brass pinion gear. This combination is designed for durability and a smooth, powerful retrieve. The gears are auto-engaging, allowing for an immediate transition from free-spool to retrieve with a simple turn of the handle.
• Bearings: The reel is fitted with 2 shielded stainless steel ball bearings. While the bearing count may seem low compared to high-end reels, these bearings are strategically placed to ensure smooth operation under load and are highly resistant to the corrosive effects of saltwater, ensuring long-term reliability.
• Line Capacity Rings: The spool features PENN’s Line Capacity Rings. These are simple but effective visual markers that indicate when the spool is at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity, making line management easy and intuitive.

Specifications (Model 20)

• Reel Size: 20
• Retrieve: Right Hand
• Reel Type: Conventional
• Features: Level Wind, Line Counter
• Max Drag: 15 lbs (6.8 kg)
• Gear Ratio: 3.9:1 (This lower gear ratio provides excellent torque and cranking power, making it easier to pull in heavy rigs and fight hard-pulling fish. It is a common gear ratio for bottom fishing and trolling reels.)
• Bearings: 2 Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
• Mono Line Capacity (yd/lb): 475/15, 340/20, 290/25
• Braid Line Capacity (yd/lb): 865/20, 650/30, 450/50