Penn Fathom II 25N Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel

Craftsmanship & Construction

The Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed series features a one-piece machined aluminium frame and sideplate that enhances structural rigidity and gear alignment under load. At its core is a stainless steel main and pinion gear set paired with a forged and machined aluminium spool to maximise durability and long-term reliability. A 5-stainless steel bearing system supports smooth operation and longevity in demanding saltwater environments. The Quick-Shift II two-speed system allows rapid transition between retrieve rates for adaptability on the water.

Drag & Sealing Performance

This reel utilises PENN’s Dura-Drag™ system combined with a lever drag design for strong, consistent drag pressure tailored to heavy fish and sustained fights. The Pull-to-Turn preset knob design reduces the risk of unintended drag adjustment once set. Maximum drag figures across the range support heavy breaking strains required in offshore fishing applications.

Key Features

• One-piece machined aluminium frame and sideplate
• Dura-Drag™ drag system with lever control
• Stainless steel main and pinion gears
• Quick-Shift II™ two-speed system
• 5 stainless steel bearing system for smooth rotation
• Pull-to-Turn preset knob to prevent accidental drag changes
• Forged and machined aluminium spool

Materials & Care

The machined aluminium construction and stainless steel internal gears are designed to withstand heavy use in saltwater environments. Regular rinsing with fresh water after saltwater exposure and periodic lubrication of bearings and moving parts are implied best practices to maintain performance and longevity.

PENN Fathom™ II Lever Drag 2-Speed 25N Review

The PENN Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed 25N sits at the intersection of rugged build quality and versatile performance for offshore conventional fishing. Built to handle substantial line loads and extended battles, this model addresses the needs of anglers targeting medium to heavy saltwater species while requiring the adjustability of a two-speed retrieve.

25N Performance & Key Features

This 25N variant offers a balanced gear train and drag that supports sustained pressure and efficient line management. The Quick-Shift II two-speed system provides a choice between power and speed, enhancing versatility during both jigging and bait presentations. Its solid gear construction ensures torque under load and dependable retrieves across depths and current conditions.

• Strong drag capacity suitable for varied saltwater species
• Two-speed retrieve adapts to fishing conditions
• Spacious line capacity for extended runs

Build Quality & Handling

The aluminium body and stainless steel gearing confer durability without excessive weight, resulting in robust handling. The reel’s balance and ergonomic lever drag setup support fatigue-free use during long sessions on deck.

Is the 25N Easy to Use?

Setup and spool loading are straightforward with intuitive drag and speed controls. The twin gear ratios are simple to engage, offering practical usability for both experienced and progressing anglers.

• Intuitive lever drag and speed shifting
• Comfortable handling in all conditions

Key Takeaways of the 25N

The 25N model is a capable all-round choice within the Fathom II 2-Speed family, ideal for anglers seeking a durable, flexible reel that performs reliably across saltwater techniques without compromising on strength or usability.

25N FAQs

What is the gear ratio on the 25N and how does it affect performance?

The 25N employs a dual gear ratio of 5.5:1 and 2.8:1, offering a balanced retrieve speed for general offshore work and a lower ratio for heavy cranking under load. This dual range makes it versatile for both slow bait presentations and faster retrieves when necessary.

How strong is the drag on the 25N model?

The 25N has a maximum drag of 33lb, providing sufficient stopping power for medium to larger saltwater species. Its lever drag system delivers smooth, consistent pressure throughout a fish’s run.

What line capacities does the 25N support?

This model accommodates substantial line, with mono capacity of 470m at 0.29mm and braid capacity of 550yds at 20lb, making it suitable for deep water and long-run applications. These capacities help maintain control when fishing around structure or in strong currents.

Is this reel suitable for saltwater fishing?

Yes, the Fathom II Lever Drag range, including the 25N, is designed for saltwater use with corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel gears and machined aluminium components tailored to withstand harsh marine environments.

Can the 25N handle live bait techniques?

With its robust drag system and two-speed capability, the 25N is well suited for live bait fishing, offering control and responsiveness when fish make powerful runs. The dual retrieve ratios assist with bait presentation and hook set efficiency.

How easy is it to change between speeds?

The Quick-Shift II system allows anglers to switch between high and low gear ratios quickly and confidently, improving adaptability during changing conditions or when engaging different fishing techniques on the same outing.

Is the 25N suitable for beginners?

While designed for performance and durability, the 25N’s intuitive controls and balanced ergonomics make it accessible to anglers moving into more serious offshore fishing. It offers a mix of features that support both learning and long-term progression.

For more options, explore the full range of PENN multiplier reels here.