PENN Spinfisher VII 8500 Live Liner

Description

In-Depth Description and Specifications for the Penn Spinfisher VII 8500 Live Liner Spinning Reel

The Penn Spinfisher VII 8500 Live Liner is a highly specialized and robust spinning reel designed for the dedicated angler who uses live or dead bait to target large, powerful fish. This reel combines all the rugged, saltwater-proof features of the standard Spinfisher VII series with the added functionality of a “live liner” or “baitrunner” system. The 8500 size is a true powerhouse, built for demanding fishing situations from both boat and shore.

Key Design and Construction Features

• Live Liner Feature: This is the most significant feature of this reel. It allows you to switch the reel into a secondary, free-spool mode with a simple lever at the rear of the reel. In this mode, a fish can take the bait and run with minimal resistance, without feeling the main drag. A simple turn of the handle instantly re-engages the powerful main drag for the fight. This is an essential tool for bait fishing, as it prevents the fish from dropping the bait if it feels resistance. The Live Liner drag is also adjustable, allowing you to set the tension according to the size of your bait and the conditions.
• IPX5 Sealed Body and Spool: Like all Spinfisher VII models, the 8500 Live Liner has an IPX5 waterproof rating. This provides a robust seal to the reel’s body and spool, protecting the internal components from saltwater, sand, and other debris. This is crucial for its longevity and performance, especially in surf and boat fishing environments where the reel is constantly exposed to spray.
• Full Metal Body and Sideplate: The all-metal construction provides exceptional rigidity and durability. This prevents the frame from twisting under the extreme pressure of fighting large fish, ensuring that the gears remain in perfect alignment for a smooth and powerful retrieve.
• CNC Gear Technology with Brass Main Gear: The reel is built with Penn’s CNC Gear Technology. The main gear is precision-machined from solid brass, which is known for its strength and corrosion resistance. This provides a smooth, powerful, and long-lasting gearing system capable of handling heavy loads.
• Sealed HT-100™ Carbon Fiber Drag System: The reel features a sealed HT-100™ carbon fiber drag system on the main spool. This system provides a consistently smooth, powerful, and reliable drag that can handle the long runs of powerful fish. The maximum drag on the 8500 model is a formidable 40 lbs (18.1 kg), giving you the stopping power needed for large species.
• 5+1 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System: The smooth operation of the reel is supported by a 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system. These bearings are sealed to resist corrosion, ensuring a long and reliable lifespan.
• Superline Spool: The spool is designed for braided lines and features a rubber gasket to prevent the braid from slipping. This eliminates the need for mono backing. It also has line capacity rings, a convenient feature for monitoring line levels.
• Manual Bail Trip: The 8500 Live Liner, like other large Spinfisher models, has a manual bail trip to prevent the bail from accidentally closing during a powerful cast.

Specifications (SSVII8500LLEU)

• Reel Size: 8500
• Weight: 32.28 oz (915 g)
• Gear Ratio: 4.7:1
• Retrieve Rate: 42 inches (107 cm) of line per turn of the handle.
• Max Drag: 40 lb (18.1 kg)
• Bearing Count: 6 (5 sealed stainless steel ball bearings + 1 anti-reverse bearing)
• Drag Material: HT-100™ Carbon Fiber
• Drag Type: Front Drag with separate Live Liner drag
• Live Liner Feature: Yes, adjustable with a 4-position lever
• Bail Trip: Manual
• Line Capacity (Mono m/mm): 415/0.46, 280/0.56, 240/0.61
• Line Capacity (Braid yd/lb): 730/40 lb, 600/50 lb, 555/65 lb
• Retrieve: Right/Left interchangeable handle position
• Color: Black/Gold

Intended Use

The Penn Spinfisher VII 8500 Live Liner is the ultimate reel for static bait fishing for large saltwater species. It is a perfect choice for targeting sharks, rays, cod, large bass, and conger eels from the shore. Its robust build and high drag rating also make it an excellent choice for boat fishing for species like halibut, large ling, and other deep-water species where a live or dead bait presentation is key.