The PENN Warfare II 20 Level Wind Left Hand reel is a robust and user-friendly conventional reel designed for anglers who prefer the control and comfort of a left-hand retrieve. This model combines the durable construction of the Warfare II series with a practical level wind system, making it an excellent workhorse for a variety of fishing applications without the added feature of a line counter.
Key Design Features
- Left Hand Retrieve: This is the distinguishing characteristic of the reel. It is specifically designed for right-handed anglers who prefer to hold the rod with their dominant hand for maximum leverage and control, while reeling with their non-dominant left hand. This configuration provides a more natural and comfortable motion for techniques like jigging and fighting powerful fish.
- Level Wind System: The integrated level wind system is a crucial feature for ease of use. It automatically and evenly distributes the line across the reels spool during retrieval. This prevents line bunching, which can lead to frustrating tangles and costly line-related failures. It also helps to ensure a neat line lay, improving casting performance and overall reel efficiency.
- Forged and Machined Aluminum Spool: Unlike some reels in this class that use cast spools, the Warfare II features a forged and machined aluminum spool. This construction makes the spool lighter, stronger, and more resistant to corrosion. It also provides a better foundation for holding a large amount of braided line.
Reel Construction and Technology
- Frame and Sideplates: The Warfare II 20 is built on a lightweight yet durable graphite frame with matching sideplates. The use of graphite makes the reel comfortable to hold for extended periods and provides excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion. The frame is reinforced with aluminum frame rings for added rigidity, which prevents flex under heavy loads and ensures the gears remain perfectly aligned.
- Drag System: This reel features PENNs celebrated HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers. This advanced drag system is a hallmark of PENN reels, known for providing smooth, consistent, and powerful stopping power. The carbon fiber material efficiently dissipates heat generated during a long, powerful run, preventing drag fade and ensuring you maintain control of the fish throughout the fight. The maximum drag for this model is a solid 15 lbs (6.8 kg), providing ample power for its size class.
- Gearing: The reel utilizes a robust gearing system consisting of a machined brass main gear and a machined brass pinion gear. This combination is designed for durability and a smooth, powerful retrieve.
- Bearings: The PENN Warfare II 20 has 3 shielded stainless steel ball bearings. These bearings are strategically placed to ensure smooth operation under load and are highly resistant to the corrosive effects of saltwater, providing long-term reliability.
- Line Capacity Rings: The spool features PENNs signature Line Capacity Rings. These are simple but effective visual markers that indicate when the spool is at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity, making line management easy and intuitive.
Specifications (Model 20)
- Reel Size: 20
- Retrieve: Left Hand
- Reel Type: Conventional
- Features: Level Wind
- Max Drag: 15 lbs (6.8 kg)
- Gear Ratio: 3.9:1 (This lower gear ratio provides excellent torque and cranking power, making it easier to pull in heavy rigs and fight hard-pulling fish. It is a common gear ratio for bottom fishing and trolling reels.)
- Bearings: 3 shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- Mono Line Capacity (yd/lb): 340/20
- Braid Line Capacity (yd/lb): 650/30, 450/50