Now let’s look at each of the series in more detail. Take a look at the table above to check out these differences. For example, the Fathom Lever series tends to have higher gear speeds than the corresponding Squall series. Gear ratio: While both series are broadly similar in this category, there are some clear differences between specific variants.
This makes perfect sense, since the former is designed for targeting bigger fish, which fight harder. Maximum drag pressure: On average, the max pressure is higher on the Fathom series compared to the Squall series.
For example, the Fathom Level Wind series has two additional bearings compared to the corresponding Squall series, which gives it smoother action. However, there are slight differences in the number of ball bearings for each variant. However, if you’re using a heavy boat or trolling rod, then this weight difference doesn’t really matter.īall bearings: Both series are broadly similar in this respect, and come with shielded stainless steel ball bearings, which are ideal for withstanding the corrosive conditions of saltwater fishing. Weight: The Fathom series tends to be a little heavier than the corresponding Squall models, since it is built with metal instead of graphite. Size: Both series are mostly similar in this regard, although there can be minor differences in the range of sizes covered by each of the reel variants. However, if you’re targeting smaller species such as wahoo or dolphin, then the graphite reels of the Squall series are absolutely fine, and will serve you well. Metal doesn’t warp even under very high pressure, and so is the best choice for targeting heavyweight fighters.īottom line: The Fathom is built entirely with metal, which is better for catching big saltwater fish. The problem with graphite is that it can be distorted under high pressure, which can cause misalignment of the parts, resulting in a reel that doesn’t perform as smoothly as it should. But if you’re planning to catch big fish that like to fight hard, such as big tuna, sailfish or marlin, it’s essentially to choose the best gear for the job, and metal has a clear advantage over graphite. The most important differences between the Penn Squall and Fathom seriesīuild material: This is the category with the biggest difference between the two series.īottom line: While the Squall is built with graphite frame and side plates, the Fathom is entirely built with metal.įor small to medium sized fish this doesn’t really make a difference, and graphite is perfectly fine. The table above compares the most important specifications and features of both series and their 4 variants side by side.Īs you can see, many of their features are broadly similar, so we’ll need to dive into the details to see what makes them different. Penn Squall vs Fathom reels – what are the differences? Image Price Size range Build material Weight Ball bearings Max drag pressure Gear ratio Squall Star Drag series 12 to 40 Graphite 14.40 to 19.00 oz 6 15 to 20 lb 6.0:1 Fathom Star Drag series 12 to 40 Metal 19.90 to 20.70 oz 6 25 to 28 lb 4.8:1 to 6.1:1 Squall Lever Drag series 30 to 60 Graphite 18.20 to 28.10 oz 6 13 to 33 lb 4.3:1 to 6.1:1 Fathom Lever Drag series 15 to 60 Metal 15.10 to 27.30 oz 5 20 to 40 lb 4.8:1 to 7.1:1 Squall Lever Drag 2 Speed series 16 to 50 Graphite 38.5 to 55.60 4 26 to 40 lb 1.5:1 to 4.4:1 Fathom Lever Drag 2 Speed series 15 to 60 Metal 15.6 to 27.30 5 20 to 40 lb 2.5:1 to 6.1:1 Squall Level Wind series 15 to 50 Graphite 16.20 to 24.60 3 15 to 20 lb 4.0:1 to 4.9:1 Fathom Level Wind series 15 to 60 Metal 19.80 to 27.00 5 20 to 30 lb 4.3:1 to 5.5:1 In this article we compare the most important features of both reel series, as well their main differences, so you can decide which one is best for your purpose.
But in order to decide which one of these is right for you, you need to know their main features and differences.īoth series come in 4 design variations, and so you not only need to choose between the two series, but also among one of the 4 variants. If you’re currently looking for a high quality conventional reel, then the Squall and Fathom series are among the best models to choose from.
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