Are you ready to set sail on an epic fishing adventure? Look no further than the Penn Squall Star Drag Reel! If you’re an angler searching for a reliable and powerful tool to conquer any saltwater challenge, this review is your compass. We’ve tested the Penn Squall Star Drag’s mettle against the mightiest of fish and are here to share our thrilling expedition with you. From its sleek design to its irresistible capabilities, get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you hooked from the very first cast. Ready? Let’s dive into our comprehensive Penn Squall Star Drag review!
Introduction
Table of Contents
The Penn Squall Star Drag is a great choice for anyone in the market for a top-of-the-line fishing reel. It’s no surprise that this reel is one of the best sellers on the market with its powerful drag mechanism and silky performance. If you’re looking for a reel that can handle any type of fishing situation, the Penn Squall Star Drag is definitely worth checking out.
Overview of the Penn Squall Star Drag
The Penn Squall Star Drag is a high-quality, affordable fishing reel that is great for anglers of all levels. This reel features a star drag system that provides smooth and reliable drag performance, as well as a quick-set anti-reverse clutch that ensures easy and comfortable operation. The Penn Squall also features a durable construction that can handle the elements and the rigors of saltwater fishing, making it an ideal choice for both inshore and offshore anglers.
First Impressions of the Reel
First impressions of the reel are that it’s very well made and has a solid feel. The drag is buttery smooth, and the overall construction seems top-notch. I can’t wait to get this reel on the water!
- If you’re looking for a good, solid, all-around saltwater reel at an affordable price, the Penn Squall Star Drag is definitely worth checking out. This reel is well-built and has a nice drag system that can handle some pretty big fish. It’s also relatively light for a saltwater reel, so it won’t weigh you down if you’re fishing all day.
- The Squall Star Drag is available in several different models, so you can choose the one that best suits your fishing style and needs. All of the models have line capacity rings (LCRs) that help you keep track of how much line you have left when fighting saltwater fish. The LCRs are color-coded, so it’s easy to see at a glance how much line you have left.
- The Squall Star Drag also has a built-in watertight design (WTD) that keeps saltwater and sand out of the reel, making it more resistant to corrosion. With this function, you may fish in saltier water or use your reel in both saltwater and freshwater without worrying about rusting or corrosion.
- The Penn Squall Star Drag is a great reel for saltwater fishing. It’s durable, has a good drag system, and is relatively light for a saltwater reel. It also has some great features, like Line
Performance on the Water
When it comes to performance, the Penn Squall Star Drag is definitely up to the task. The reel is made specifically for fishing in saltwater, so it can withstand the harsh conditions of the ocean. The drag system is extremely smooth and powerful, providing you with the necessary power to battle large fish. The frame and gears are also constructed from high-quality materials, which ensures that this reel will withstand years of use.
Ergonomics and Comfortability
There is no doubt that the Penn Squall Star Drag is one of the most comfortable fishing reels on the market. Penn clearly gave a lot of consideration to making this reel as user-friendly as possible by investing heavily in the reel’s ergonomics. The handle is perfectly placed for your hand, and the drag knob is within easy reach. The frame of the reel is lightweight and well balanced, making it comfortable to fish with all day long. Even when you are fighting a big fish, the Penn Squall Star Drag feels solid and secure in your hand.
When you’re fishing, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your reel is comfortable. With the Penn Squall Star Drag Reel, you can rest assured that it’s been designed with ergonomics and comfort in mind. The drag knob is conveniently placed near the handles, and the handles themselves are shaped to accommodate the shape of your hand. Even when you’re fighting a big fish, this reel will feel good in your hand and give you the power and control you need to land your catch.
Features
Live Spindle/free-floating spool design
Penn Squall Star Drag features a live spindle/free-floating spool design that eliminates line twist and provides smooth, consistent drag performance. This unique design also allows the spool to rotate independently of the handle, providing for smoother operation and increased durability.
Six shielded stainless steel ball bearings plus instant anti-reverse
The Penn Squall Star Drag features six shielded stainless steel ball bearings plus an instant anti-reverse for smooth, reliable operation. The resulting fishing reel is sturdy and simple to operate, making it ideal for long days on the lake.
Externally adjustable magnetic brake (select models only)
A really adjustable magnetic brake on the Penn Squall Star Drag is a great feature for those who like to have complete control over their reel. This brake can be easily adjusted without having to disassemble the reel, and it provides a smooth, consistent drag throughout the entire cast.
Counterbalance or power handles
Most fishing reel manufacturers put counterbalance handles on their reels. A counterbalance handle allows the angler to use the power of the fish to their advantage when the fish is pulling the line off the spool. There is a shaft that connects the handle to the reel’s main body. The handle can be moved up and down the shaft to keep tension on the line. When fighting a fish, many anglers prefer a power handle because it provides more torque than a regular handle. Power handles are often found on reels that are used for trolling or bottom fishing.
Graphite frame andStarality sideplate
The Penn Squall Star Drag is a great choice for those looking for a Saltiga Starality reel at an affordable price. It features a graphite frame and sideplate, making it both durable and lightweight. The drag system is smooth, and Penn’s Squalororstar drag performs well even under heavy loads. This reel also has a high gear ratio, making it ideal for those who like to fish at high speeds. The Penn Squall Star Drag is a great choice for those looking for a quality reel that won’t break the bank.
Machined- and anodized-aluminum spool
Aluminum spools are anode-treated to make them more durable and resistant to corrosion. This treatment also increases the spool’s strength, making it less likely to warp or crack under heavy use.
A spool made of anodized aluminum has the distinct benefit of never corroding. In order to prevent corrosion, aluminum is anodized, which results in a thin oxide layer on its surface.
A machined-aluminum spool is also less likely to corrode than a Saltiga Star machined spool, but it may still develop a patina over time. Anodizing can help to prevent this, but it is not foolproof.
Marine-grade gears
Marine-grade gears are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of salt water and provide years of trouble-free operation. The Penn Squall Star Drag is built with marine-grade gears for exceptional durability and performance.
Versa-Drag with HT-100 washers
The Squall Star Drag is a versatile reel that can be used for a variety of fishing applications. The HT-100 washers provide smooth, reliable drag performance and make this reel an excellent choice for saltwater or freshwater fishing.
Features at a Glance
The Penn Squall Star Drag is a great choice for those who are looking for a reliable and affordable saltwater fishing reel. This reel features a star drag system that provides smooth, precise drag control while fishing. Additionally, the Penn Squall Star Drag has a corrosion-resistant construction that makes it ideal for use in saltwater environments.
- Compact, open-frame casting reel
- Live Spindle/free-floating spool design
- Six shielded stainless steel ball bearings plus instant anti-reverse
- Externally adjustable magnetic brake (models 12 and 15 only)
- Counterbalance or power handles
- Graphite frame
- Machined- and anodized-aluminum spool
- Marine-grade gears
- Versa-DragTM with HT-100TM washers
Price/Value for Money
In general, anglers are quite happy with the value they get from the Penn Squall. It’s an affordable reel with a good drag system that can handle a variety of different fishing situations. Although the Squall’s durability has been questioned, most fishermen agree that it’s worth the asking price.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to saltwater fishing reels, Penn is a well-known and trusted name. The Penn Squall Star Drag is a good option for those looking for a durable and reliable reel that can handle big fish. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before purchasing this reel.
PROS:
- Penn fishing reels is a trusted name in saltwater
- The Squall Star Drag is durable and reliable
can handle big fish
CONS:
- Some reviewers found the drag difficult to adjust
- The bail can be tricky to close
Alternatives
While the Penn Squall Star Drag may be a great choice for some, it’s not the only option on the market. There are a number of alternatives worth considering, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Another option is the Shimano Calcutta Conquest. This reel is also designed for saltwater fishing and offers a similar drag system to the Saltiga. However, those that like a lighter reel without compromising power will appreciate this one for its more manageable weight.
If you’re looking for an alternative that’s less expensive than the Penn Squall Star Drag, consider the Pflueger President Star Drag. This reel is made with durable materials and offers a solid drag system that can handle up to 20 pounds of fish.
Conclusion
The Penn Squall Star Drag is a well-made reel that has some great features and solid construction. It’s a great option for fishermen trying to save money without sacrificing quality. The Squall is a great place for both novice and seasoned anglers alike. With its smooth drag system and combination of power and control, this reel ensures your time spent out on the water will be successful and enjoyable!