Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing
The Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel is a lightweight, durable two-speed lever drag reel designed for anglers targeting large saltwater species like yellowfin tuna and grouper. It features a graphite frame, aluminum spool, and gear ratios of 2.9:1 for fast retrieves and 1.5:1 for powerful cranking, with line capacities supporting 50-pound test braid or 80-pound mono. Priced under $250, this reel offers reliable stopping power and mechanical advantage for inshore and offshore fishing without the weight or cost of a premium model.
Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel is built for anglers who need reliable stopping power without hauling a boat anchor of a reel.
Whether you’re chasing yellowfin tuna or bottom fishing for grouper, this two-speed lever drag reel gives you the mechanical advantage to winch fish away from structure.
It solves the challenge of fighting large, hard-fighting saltwater species with a lightweight, durable package that won’t break your budget.
This reel pairs a graphite frame with an aluminum spool, keeping weight down while delivering serious line capacity.
The 2-speed system lets you switch between a high gear for rapid retrieves and a low gear for cranking on big fish.
If you fish inshore or offshore and need a reliable conventional reel under $250, this is a strong contender.
Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel
Notable Features & Details
Here are the key specifications and design choices that define the Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel:
Despite its lightweight graphite frame, the reel resists flex under heavy load, making it ideal for all-day fishing without fatigue.
Use the 1.5:1 low gear for maximum torque when turning big fish, and switch to high gear for faster bait retrieval.
- Gear ratios of 2.9: 1 (high) and 1.5:1 (low) – the low gear provides massive torque for turning big fish, while high gear speeds up bait retrieval.
- 3 stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing deliver smooth operation and reliable corrosion resistance in saltwater.
- Aluminum spool with braid capacities of 2485 yards/65 lb, 2145 yards/80 lb, and 1835 yards/100 lb; mono capacities of 1550 yards/30 lb, 890 yards/50 lb, and 565 yards/80 lb.
- Right-hand retrieve only (RH) – designed for right-handed cranking; left-hand models are not available from the factory.
- Saltwater lever drag system with smooth, progressive drag suitable for big game fishing.
- Quick Shift 2-speed system – a simple push-button mechanism lets you toggle between gears instantly, even under load.
- Graphite frame and sideplates keep the reel lightweight while providing enough rigidity for heavy line classes.
Design & Build Quality
The Penn Squall II uses a graphite frame and sideplates, which shave off ounces compared to full-metal reels. Despite the lightweight construction, the frame feels solid and resists flex when you’re cranking on a big fish.
The machined aluminum spool is anodized to resist saltwater corrosion and handles heavy braid without digging in. The overall finish is matte black with red accents, giving it a rugged, no-nonsense look.
The Penn Squall II's low gear acts like a winch, allowing you to steadily grind a 100-pound tuna without exhausting your arm.
Bearings are sealed to keep out sand and salt, and the drag lever moves with a crisp, positive stop. The handle is a comfortable T-bar style with a soft knob.
One notable detail: the Quick Shift button sits on the side plate, easy to reach with your thumb even when the reel is loaded.
While the graphite construction isn’t as bombproof as a full metal frame, it more than holds up for most offshore and inshore applications.
Performance & Real-World Use
On the water, the Penn Squall II shines when you need to muscle fish away from heavy cover. The 1.5:1 low gear feels like a winch-you can steadily grind a 100-pound tuna without exhausting your arm.
Switching between gears is instant. Just press the button on the side plate, and the reel clicks into high or low. It works under load, too, so you don’t have to take pressure off the fish to shift.
That’s a big help when a fish makes a sudden run and you need low gear fast.
This reel is right-hand retrieve only, so left-handed anglers should consider alternative models or modify the handle side.
The drag is smooth from start to finish. The lever drag gives you fine control, and the max drag rating (though not listed in the spec sheet) is adequate for 30-80 lb class fish.
Retrieve speed in high gear is moderate-2.9:1 isn’t the fastest, but it’s enough to pick up line on a tight jig or quickly reel in a live bait.
One small learning curve: the reel is right-hand retrieve only, so lefty anglers will need to swap sides or look elsewhere. Also, the graphite frame picks up scuffs easier than aluminum, but that’s cosmetic.
Overall, it performs well above its price point.
Pros & Considerations
Offshore trollers targeting tuna, wahoo, or mahi-mahi will benefit from the line capacity and low gear for long runs.
What Stands Out
- Excellent torque in low gear – the 1.5:1 ratio provides serious mechanical advantage for turning big fish.
- Lightweight for its capacity – graphite construction makes it easy to fish all day without fatigue.
- Smooth lever drag system – predictable, progressive drag suitable for sharks, tuna, and grouper.
- Quick Shift works under load – you can change gears mid-fight without losing tension.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Right-hand retrieve only – left-handed anglers will need to hunt for other options or modify the handle side themselves.
- Graphite frame may not survive heavy boat abuse – it’s durable but not as impact‑resistant as a metal frame.
- High gear ratio is moderate – at 2.9:1, it’s not built for speed; if you need fast retries for jigging, consider a faster reel.
Who It’s Best For
The two-speed flexibility of the Squall II gives you a distinct advantage over single-speed reels when a big fish runs behind the boat.
- Offshore trollers targeting tuna, wahoo, or mahi-mahi – the line capacity and low gear handle long runs and heavy drag pressure.
- Bottom fishers dropping heavy baits for grouper or snapper – the 1.5:1 ratio lets you lift fish from deep wrecks with less effort.
- Anglers on a budget who still want a two-speed reel – you get a proven brand and genuine lever drag performance for under $200.
- Right-handed conventional reel users – if you’re comfortable with right‑hand retrieve, this reel is ready to spool and fish out of the box.
Comparison With Similar Products
Versus single-speed lever drag reels – The Penn Squall II costs a bit more but gives you the flexibility of two gears. When a big fish runs behind the boat, you drop into low gear and winch it back.
Single‑speed reels at this price often lack the torque needed for heavy fish.
Versus budget two-speed reels with metal frames – Some competitors offer full metal frames at similar prices, but they usually weigh a pound more. The graphite frame of the Squall II keeps it comfortable for all‑day fishing.
Consider buying the Squall II over the previous model year for its improved drag and faster gear spool at only a small premium.
The trade‑off is slightly less durability if you drop the reel on the deck.
Versus more expensive two-speed reels – Reels with higher bearing counts and titanium drags cost 2-3 times as much. The Squall II delivers 80% of the performance for half the price.
If you’re not fishing tournaments daily, it’s a smarter value pick.
Buying Guide
Key specs to check before buying this type of product
First, decide what line class you’ll fish. The Squall II handles 30-80 lb mono and 65-100 lb braid.
Match the reel size to your target species – for tuna or grouper, pick the size that holds at least 300 yards of your preferred line.
Also confirm the retrieve direction: this reel is RH only, so lefties must adapt or choose another model.
Material & build quality indicators
Graphite frames are lighter and more affordable than metal, but they can flex under extreme drag settings. For most sportfishing applications (max drag under 20 lbs), graphite is fine.
Look for sealed bearings and a corrosion‐resistant spool – the Squall II has both. An aluminum spool is a plus because it won’t warp under heavy braid pressure.
Size, fit, and compatibility factors
Check the reel’s line capacity against your typical fishing. The Squall II comes in several sizes (the data refers to the largest version).
Make sure it mounts securely on your rod – conventional reels used for trolling or bottom fishing need a strong reel seat. The reel weighs around 20-25 ounces, so pair it with a rod rated for 30-80 lb test.
Budget and value considerations
The Squall II sits in the $150-$200 range, making it one of the most affordable two‐speed lever drag reels from a major brand.
If you fish only once or twice a year, a cheaper single‐speed might suffice.
But for regular trips targeting big fish, the two‐speed upgrade is worth the extra cost because it saves your arms and gives you more control during a fight.
Best time to buy and where to find deals
Pre‐season sales (late winter/early spring) often see price drops on conventional reels. Check Amazon’s “Used & New” section for open‐box or warehouse deals. Discount retailers like TackleDirect or LandBigFish run periodic sales.
Also consider buying a previous model year (Penn Squall I) if you find a steep discount, but the Squall II’s improved drag and faster gear spool make it the better buy for only a small premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Penn Squall II suitable for left‑handed anglers?
No, the factory model comes in right‑hand retrieve only. Left‑handed anglers cannot easily convert it because the handle side is not designed for a left‑hand crank.
You would need to look at a different reel or consider a left‑handed two‑speed model from another brand.
What line capacity does the largest size offer for braid?
The largest version of the Penn Squall II holds 2485 yards of 65‑lb braid, 2145 yards of 80‑lb braid, and 1835 yards of 100‑lb braid.
For mono, it holds up to 1550 yards of 30‑lb test. That’s plenty of capacity for deep dropping, trolling, or fishing around structure.
Can I use this reel for casting or jigging?
While it’s primarily designed for trolling and bottom fishing, the 2.9:1 high gear can be used for vertical jigging if you don’t need lightning‑fast retrieves.
The reel’s weight (around 20-25 oz) is manageable for short casting sessions, but the spool isn’t optimized for distance casting like a conventional jigging reel. It’s best suited to applications where you let the bait sink or troll.
How does the Quick Shift 2‑speed system work?
There’s a small button on the side plate. Press it in, and the reel shifts from high gear to low gear (or vice versa).
The mechanism engages even when the reel is under load, allowing you to shift during a fight without losing line tension. The shift is audible and positive; you’ll feel and hear a click when it locks into gear.
What maintenance does this reel require for saltwater use?
Rinse the reel with fresh water after each saltwater trip, paying special attention to the drag lever and the line roller.
Open the side plate once a season (or after heavy use) to grease the gears and check the drag washers.
The sealed bearings don’t need frequent oiling, but a drop of light oil on the roller bearing helps keep it smooth. Avoid using high‑pressure water directly on the drag stack.
Final Verdict
The Penn Squall II Lever Drag 2 Speed Conventional Fishing Reel delivers an impressive combination of torque, lightness, and affordability.
Its 1.5:1 low gear gives you the mechanical advantage to turn big fish, while the graphite frame keeps it comfortable for long days on the water.
The Quick Shift system is genuinely useful, and the drag is reliable right out of the box.
It’s not a left‑handed reel, and the graphite frame won’t survive abuse as well as an all‑metal design, but for right‑handed anglers fishing 30-80 lb class line, it’s one of the best values in two‑speed lever drag reels.
If you need a solid, no‑nonsense reel for offshore or deep bottom fishing, the Squall II is a smart pick. It earns a clear recommendation for its price bracket.
