Penn Fathom II 30 Lever Drag 2 Speed Reel

Craftsmanship & Construction

The Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed 30 is built around a one-piece machined aluminium frame and sideplate, ensuring precise gear alignment and resistance to flex under heavy load. Stainless steel main and pinion gears provide long-term durability, while the forged and machined aluminium spool supports high line capacities without compromising strength. A 5 stainless steel bearing system underpins smooth and consistent operation during high-pressure use. The integrated Quick-Shift II™ two-speed system allows rapid gear changes without disengaging the reel.

Drag & Sealing Performance

This model features PENN’s Dura-Drag™ system combined with a lever drag configuration to deliver smooth, controlled drag across the range. The Pull-to-Turn preset knob helps prevent accidental drag adjustment once set, supporting consistent performance during extended fights. The maximum drag rating supports heavier breaking strains suited to offshore and deep-water applications.

Key Features

• One-piece machined aluminium frame and sideplate
• Dura-Drag™ lever drag system
• Stainless steel main and pinion gears
• Quick-Shift II™ two-speed gear system
• 5 stainless steel bearings for smooth operation
• Pull-to-Turn drag preset knob
• Forged and machined aluminium spool

Materials & Care

The aluminium and stainless steel construction is intended for repeated saltwater exposure. While no specific care instructions are stated, routine freshwater rinsing after use and general maintenance are implied to help preserve performance and extend service life.

PENN Fathom™ II Lever Drag 2-Speed 30 Review

The PENN Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed 30 is engineered for anglers who require added line capacity and cranking authority when fishing offshore. Positioned as a workhorse model within the range, it is well suited to deeper water fishing, heavier tackle setups and species that demand sustained drag pressure.

30 Performance & Key Features

The 30 model combines a dual gear ratio system with a strong lever drag to deliver controlled power across varying fishing scenarios. The ability to shift quickly between high and low gear improves efficiency when retrieving baits or applying pressure during prolonged fights. Its generous line capacity supports deep drops and long runs.

• Two-speed gearing for power and retrieve flexibility
• Strong drag output for offshore species
• High line capacity for deep and heavy applications

Build Quality & Handling

The rigid aluminium frame provides confidence under load, while the reel’s weight and balance are well suited to boat rods designed for offshore work. Controls are solid and deliberate, reinforcing its purpose as a heavy-duty saltwater reel.

Is the 30 Easy to Use?

The lever drag system and gear selector are straightforward to operate, even under pressure. Once set, the drag remains consistent, allowing anglers to focus on fighting fish rather than constant adjustment.

• Simple, secure lever drag adjustment
• Quick and reliable gear shifting

Key Takeaways of the 30

The Fathom II Lever Drag 2-Speed 30 is an excellent choice for anglers who prioritise strength, line capacity and dependable performance in offshore conditions. It suits experienced saltwater anglers looking for a durable reel capable of handling demanding fishing scenarios.

30 FAQs

What gear ratios does the Fathom II 30 offer?

The 30 model features a dual gear ratio of 5.5:1 in high gear and 2.8:1 in low gear. This allows anglers to retrieve line efficiently or apply increased torque when fighting fish at depth.

How much drag pressure does the 30 generate?

The maximum drag rating for the 30 is 33lb, providing ample stopping power for offshore species. The Dura-Drag™ system ensures smooth and consistent pressure throughout the fight.

What is the line capacity of the 30 model?

The reel holds 275m of 0.38mm mono or 410yds of 30lb braid. This capacity supports deeper water fishing and longer runs from powerful fish.

Is the 30 designed for saltwater use?

Yes, the reel is specifically designed for saltwater environments, using machined aluminium and stainless steel components to withstand corrosion and heavy use.

Is the 30 suitable for deep-water fishing?

With its strong drag system, dual gearing and high line capacity, the 30 is well suited to deep-water and offshore fishing applications where control and power are essential.

How easy is it to change between gears?

The Quick-Shift II system allows instant changes between high and low gear, enabling anglers to adapt quickly during a fight without disengaging the reel.

Who is the 30 best suited for?

This model is best suited to experienced offshore anglers who require a robust, high-capacity reel for demanding saltwater fishing, including bottom fishing and targeting powerful species.

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