Description
The PENN Fathom II 15 Level Wind is a high-performance multiplier reel that is a true workhorse, particularly for boat fishing and general purpose inshore angling. It’s a reel designed to be incredibly durable and reliable, with key features that make it a favorite of charter boat captains and anglers who need a reel that can withstand constant use and abuse. The “Level Wind” system, a defining feature, ensures perfect line lay on the retrieve, making it a very user-friendly reel for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Core Specifications and Technology
- Solid Metal Construction: The Fathom II 15 Level Wind is built with a full metal body and sideplates. This rigid, one-piece frame ensures that the internal gears remain in perfect alignment, even under the immense pressure of a hard-fighting fish. This robust construction makes the reel incredibly durable and reliable in the harsh saltwater environment.
- Reinforced Level Wind System: Unlike some level wind reels, the Fathom II’s level wind system has been reinforced to prevent the common issue of the line guide insert popping out. This robust system ensures that the line is perfectly distributed on the spool during the retrieve, which helps to prevent tangles and ensures smooth casting on the next drop.
- HT-100™ Drag System: The Fathom II 15 Level Wind is equipped with PENN’s renowned HT-100™ carbon washer drag system. The “Dura-Drag” system provides smooth, consistent drag performance under pressure, with a powerful maximum drag force of 13.6kg (30 lbs). This is more than enough to stop and control powerful fish. The reel also features a Fast Gear Access Sideplate, which allows you to quickly and easily service the gears and drag system without worrying about losing small parts.
- Durable Gearing: The reel features machine-cut marine-grade bronze main gear and a hardened stainless steel pinion gear. This combination of materials provides exceptional strength, durability, and a smooth retrieve. The 5.5:1 gear ratio is a versatile all-rounder, offering a good balance of winding power for bottom fishing and a decent retrieval rate for bringing in line quickly.
- Reliable Bearing System: The reel is fitted with a solid 4+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearing system. This configuration provides a smooth retrieve and excellent corrosion resistance, which is vital for a reel used in the harsh saltwater environment.
- User-Friendly Features: The reel includes Line Capacity Rings on the spool, which provide a visual guide to how much line is left. It also comes with both a double paddle handle and a single power handle, allowing you to choose the handle that best suits your fishing style.
Detailed Specifications
- Weight: 562g (19.8 oz)
- Bearings: 4+1 shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- Gear Ratio: 5.5:1
- Line Retrieve per Turn: 76cm (30 inches)
- Max Drag Force: 13.6kg (30 lbs)
- Mono Capacity (lb/yd): 15lb / 325yd, 20lb / 215yd
- Braid Capacity (lb/yd): 20lb / 590yd, 30lb / 445yd
Why It’s Perfect for UK Fishing
The PENN Fathom II 15 Level Wind is an outstanding choice for a wide range of UK boat and inshore fishing applications.
- Boat Fishing Workhorse: Its robust construction and powerful drag make it a favourite for a variety of boat fishing scenarios, from fishing over wrecks for cod and pollack to drifting for plaice and turbot. Its reliability is why it’s so popular with charter skippers.
- User-Friendly: The level wind system takes the guesswork out of line lay, making it incredibly easy to use, especially for those new to multiplier reels. This makes it a great family reel or a good choice for those who just want to fish without worrying about thumb control.
- Built to Withstand UK Conditions: The all-metal body, corrosion-resistant bearings, and HT-100 drag ensure this reel is built to withstand the tough saltwater environment. With proper care, it will provide years of reliable service.
- Versatility and Power: The reel’s powerful drag and versatile gear ratio make it a capable tool for a variety of fishing applications, from targeting bass and rays to conger and tope.
