I have never used a Penn reel for lightweight fishing before. What I had found is that this reel is awesome! The power handle is my favorite part of the reel. Whether reeling in 30cm or 60cm snapper, it makes for quick and fast handling. It is a very smooth reel and for its size, the drag is very strong. I recommend Penn reels for softbaiting for sure!

Amazing reel....period!

I spent eight days fishing along the lower Texas coast last month and used Penn reels exclusively. The photos are of just a couple of the fish I caught on my Clash 2500. It’s spoiled with 15lb super slick V2 and mounted on a 7’6” Falcon Coastal rod. Even the 31” red was in the net in a matter of minutes. The key is the super smooth and predictable drag. The 28 7/8” red slammed my lure at 6-7’ from the boat going wide open. It stripped close to 40yds of line before slowing. After a couple of more 10yd runs, it was in the net. From my old 710z to my newest Clash II, Penn reels have always performed well.

Can’t handle braid very well

Was very excited about this reel. I had TONS of success with my last first Gen Penn Clash. Out of the box it was so smooth. But after four spools of #30 braid from 4 different manufacturers I can’t seem to get this reel to not spit out wind knots and snap off lures mid cast. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to go retrieve a a super spook that is a couple hundred yards due to these wind knots. I’ve tried using light lures, smaller rods, stiffer rods, keeping tension on the line you name it. I have over 50 baitcaster and spinning reels to my name and have been fishing for 40 years and can’t figure this real out. I take the same braid off and put it on my first gen’s clash’s and they work flawlessly. This reel looks good and when it work it feels good. BUT I can ... MoreWas very excited about this reel. I had TONS of success with my last first Gen Penn Clash. Out of the box it was so smooth. But after four spools of #30 braid from 4 different manufacturers I can’t seem to get this reel to not spit out wind knots and snap off lures mid cast. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to go retrieve a a super spook that is a couple hundred yards due to these wind knots. I’ve tried using light lures, smaller rods, stiffer rods, keeping tension on the line you name it. I have over 50 baitcaster and spinning reels to my name and have been fishing for 40 years and can’t figure this real out. I take the same braid off and put it on my first gen’s clash’s and they work flawlessly. This reel looks good and when it work it feels good. BUT I can 100% count on it failing me and needing to pull out my back up. If I can only take one rig with me this one is staying in the rod locker. Best looking worst reel I’ve ever purchased.

Excellent inshore reel

Best 2500 inshore reel I’ve had the pleasure of owning. Yes I like it better than the other big 2 names that start with S and D. This is solid, smooth and light. Not as light and smooth as some recent carbon body reels but I prefer solid aluminum when fighting redfish and snook and the reel not flexing and making knocking noises 3 months in. I have 2 of the Clash 2 2500 reels and they produce over and over. For the guys claiming this reel causes wind knots you do not have properly spaced guides on your rod or you’re moving too fast. I personally use Daiwa JBraid 10 pound test and it casts a mile. The reel also spools and stacks line very even. I don’t understand some of these reviews. It’s an excellent reel and I have had no issues.

Great reel

Have had this reel a little over a year now. I’ve caught a pile of inshore species with it and I have no complaints. It’s light, drag is smooth and I will be getting another soon. I have the 2500 and use 10# Jbraid with it. I love the paddle handle and that’s one main reason why I keep coming back to it over my others. I’m not a fan of T-handles or football handles.

Great spinning reel

Penn has really stepped their game up over the last few years. I use the Clash series for my inshore charters and my clients can't break, ruin etc., these Clash reels! I have a 2500, (2) 3000, (2) 4000.Now I do clean and if necessary grease/oil my gear afternoon every charter and over the years, 15+ years, I've had absolutely no issues with these Clash reels. I haven't tried out the Clash II series yet.Buy one or ten! You will not regret it!Over the last few years, Penn has really stepped up the quality of their inshore and offshore gear.

My Favorite Reel

I use a 2500 most of the time. I’ve had it forever and I put this review up because yesterday I caught a pretty good sized Jack Crevalle. If you know the fish, then you know they fight like no other, pound for pound. My favorite reel on my favorite all around rig. I have it paired to a 7’ Reaper Rod (made privately in Punta Gorda, Florida. Excellent rods with the best line guides to me. Most want at least a 3000 for inshore in this area, but I won’t give up my Clash 2500.

Penn Clash II Spinning Reel

Excellent reel only gave it a 4 due to the price. The Penn Battle performs almost as well, at a friendlier price. More bang for your buck, so to speak. Longevity will determine if it is worth the extra money.

Very versatile & smooth retreive

I purchased this reel primarily for the size. I like a big reel for the grip and significant ease in retrieval when I have a real angry 25-30 lb salmon fighting me .Summation , I bank fish 75% of the time. Overall, a nice, smooth, and great casting reel.I am going to give this a shot on steelhead soon. Ya it's like towing a 2 door Nissan car using a Semi truck.Due to its size it takes just a pinch of time to dial the reel in to cast & retreive. Compared to my Okuma Ceymar C65 the Penn is just a bit better in my very large hands.I am going to buy thePenn Penn Battle III BTL II 8000 in a week.Any suggestions are welcome.

[Rewarded Review] Nice Reel. Light and comfortable in hand.

Bought two one for hubby for Christmas and one for me. Only used once so far but caught snakehead and two bass. Reel handle for nicely in hand and helps with cramping when fishing for extended hours. So far so good.