Penn Fathom II 15 Casting Special

Penn Fathom II 15 Casting Special

A high-performance reel for the shore angler that is looking for a reel to cast the maximum distance whilst still having the power to handle big fish and the toughest of conditions. Based on the Fathom’s proven Full Metal construction with tough 6.1:1 precision cut gearing and Penn’s powerful HT100 star drag system to give you the guts and power needed to pull fish and tackle back to shore.

The addition of a factory-fitted ‘knobby’ magnetic braking system gives total cast control allowing you to obtain the perfect setting to match bait and conditions. The live spindle free floating spool houses a pair of high-performance spool bearings to help tune the reel to perfection. Just set the end float to give a hint of play, dial in the magnetic braking you need and the result is long trouble-free casting no matter what the weather throws at you.

The compact frame and forward slanted gearbox keep the reel seated low on the rod allowing you to get a good grip on the spool when casting. When it comes to retrieving your catch the large power handle and easy-to-adjust star drag make short work of landing even large specimens.

Penn have opted for their ‘blackout’ cosmetics which help to give the reel a mean and purposeful look that matches its performance

Key Specifications

• Reel Type: Multiplier, Star Drag
• Size: 15 (FTHII15SDCS)
• Body & Construction: Full metal body and sideplates, one-piece open cage
• Gearing: Machine-cut marine-grade bronze main gear with a hardened stainless steel pinion gear.
• Gear Ratio: 6.1:1 (high-speed retrieve)
• Bearings: 7 shielded stainless steel ball bearings (including an instant anti-reverse bearing)
• Drag System: Versa-Drag™ with HT-100™ washers
• Max Drag: 13.6 kg (30 lb)
• Spool: Live Spindle with a free-floating, high-capacity aluminum spool.
• Braking System: ‘Knobby’ magnetic brake dial, factory-fitted.
• Line Capacity (Mono): 430m of 0.35mm
• Line Capacity (Braid): 550 yds of 30lb
• Weight: 17.5 oz (approx. 496g)
• Handle: Single Power handle with a large rubber knob.
• Aesthetics: ‘Blackout’ cosmetics for a sleek, purposeful look.

Why It’s So Good for Distance Casting in the UK

The Penn Fathom II 15 Casting Special is a popular choice for UK beach anglers due to a combination of design features that directly address the demands of distance casting, particularly in variable conditions.

1. Magnetic Braking System: This is arguably the most crucial feature for a casting special. The ‘knobby’ magnetic brake dial on the sideplate allows for precise, on-the-fly adjustments. This is essential for controlling the spool’s rotation and preventing dreaded bird’s nests or overruns.
   • Windy Conditions: In the UK, strong crosswinds are common. An angler can quickly dial up the magnetic brake to prevent the spool from over-speeding and causing a tangle.
   • Changing Baits and Weights: When switching between light and heavy baits or different sinker weights, the angler can easily adjust the braking to match the aerodynamics of the rig, ensuring optimal control and distance.
2. Live Spindle with Free-Floating Spool: This design separates the spool from the pinion gear on the cast. The spool rotates freely on high-performance bearings, with no resistance from the drivetrain. This allows the spool to spin with minimal friction, leading to longer and more effortless casts.
3. High-Performance Bearings: The reel is fitted with high-quality, shielded stainless steel ball bearings. These are specifically chosen to minimize friction and allow for maximum spool speed during the cast, translating directly to increased distance.
4. Compact Frame and Low-Seated Spool: The reel’s design keeps the spool seated low on the rod. This allows the angler to get a good grip on the spool with their thumb, providing better control and confidence during powerful casting styles like the pendulum cast.
5. Robust Construction: The full metal body and sideplates ensure the reel remains rigid under the immense forces of a power cast. This prevents any flex or misalignment that could impede casting performance. This durability is also critical for handling the rigours of UK saltwater fishing, which often involves fishing over rough ground.
6. High-Speed Retrieve (6.1:1): While not directly related to casting distance, the high gear ratio is a significant benefit for UK beach fishing. After a long cast, it allows the angler to quickly retrieve slack line or reel in a rig from a distance, which is particularly useful for fishing in strong currents or when trying to avoid snags.

Features – –

• Capacity Mono 405 yds 15 lb
• Capacity Braid 550 yds 30lb
• Ratio 6.1:1
• Full metal body and sideplates
• Fast gear access sideplate
• Machine-cut marine grade bronze main gear with hardened stainless steel pinion
• Versa-Drag™ system with HT-100™ washers
• Live Spindle with free floating spool
• Line capacity rings
• 6 shielded stainless steel ball bearing system
• Instant anti-reverse bearing