PENN Spinfisher VII 8500 Spinning Reel

The Penn Spinfisher VII 8500 spinning reel is a heavy-duty, robust reel designed for demanding saltwater fishing. It is part of the latest iteration of the iconic Spinfisher series, known for its durability and reliability. The 8500 size is a large-capacity reel built to handle the biggest and most powerful fish from the shore, boat, or pier.

Key Design and Construction Features

• IPX5 Sealed Body and Spool: The Spinfisher VII is engineered with an IPX5 rating, which means the reel’s body and spool are sealed to resist water ingress. This is a crucial feature for saltwater environments, as it prevents saltwater, sand, and other debris from entering the gearbox and drag system. This protection significantly extends the life and performance of the reel, even when exposed to heavy spray or submersion.
• Full Metal Body and Sideplate: The reel is constructed with a full metal body and sideplate. This rigid, all-metal housing prevents the gears from twisting or flexing under the immense pressure of a heavy load or a fighting fish, ensuring that the precision-machined gears remain in perfect alignment for a smooth and powerful retrieve.
• CNC Gear Technology: The Spinfisher VII features Penn’s advanced CNC Gear Technology. The main gear is precision-machined from solid brass, providing exceptional strength, durability, and a smooth feel right out of the box.
• HT-100™ Carbon Fiber Drag System: The reel’s drag is powered by Penn’s legendary HT-100™ carbon fiber drag washers, which are housed in a fully sealed spool. This system provides a consistently smooth and powerful drag output, capable of stopping large fish without jerking or hesitation.
• 5+1 Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System: The reel’s smooth operation is supported by a 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system. These bearings are sealed to protect them from corrosion and saltwater, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Superline Spool: The spool is designed specifically for use with braided lines. It features line capacity rings, which make it easy to see how much line is left on the spool at a glance.
• Manual Bail Trip: The 8500 size reel features a manual bail trip. This is a deliberate design choice on larger reels to prevent the bail from accidentally closing during a powerful cast, which could cause a snap-off and lost lure.

Specifications (SSVII8500)

• Reel Size: 8500
• Weight: 28.3 oz (802g)
• 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
• 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 is a powerful and reliable reel for tackling big game species in saltwater. It is a workhorse suitable for a variety of heavy-duty applications, including surf fishing for sharks and large striped bass, jigging for tuna and amberjack, and bottom fishing for grouper and cod. Its sealed construction and durable components make it an excellent choice for anglers who fish in challenging and unforgiving conditions.

• Superline Spool