PENN Squall® II Level Wind Combo, 9' Heavy Fishing Rod, 20 Size Reel

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Nice pick** — the PENN Squall II Level Wind combo is a real workhorse for mid-fall bay and nearshore fishing. Here’s how to make the most of the 9' Heavy rod with a 20-size reel. 🎣

- **What it's best for**: Bottom fishing for stronger fish where you want long casts and solid lifting power; ideal for redfish, grouper, snappers, striped bass, and other big offshore/nearshore species. The 9' length helps with longer casts and line control, while the Heavy action handles big baits and heavy rigs.
- **Why the setup fits**: The longer, beefy rod and level-wind reel give you leverage, drag reliability, and line capacity to fight bigger fish in currents. A 20-size reel gives enough backing and drag range for heavy rigs without becoming unwieldy.
- **Recommended line and leader options**:
  - If you’re using braided line: go with 50-80 lb braid and add 20-30 ft of monofilament or fluorocarbon leader for abrasion resistance and knot security.
  - If you’re using mono: 20-25 lb test is common for lighter targets, but for bigger fish on this rig you’ll want 25-30 lb test or heavier with a short co-poly leader.
  - Leader length: 18-24 inches (adjust to target species and structure).
- **In‑rig setup (bottom/rigging)**:
  - Use a simple bottom rig or a fish finder/snell rig with a 1-2 oz sinker (adjust to current).
  - Circle hooks or J-hooks sized to species; keep leaders strong enough to handle toothy fish.
- **Spooling and drag tips**:
  - Back the reel with a light backing, then spool with main line. If braided, use a small mono backing to prevent slipping.
  - Drag: start at 25-30% of total line breaking strength and test with a gentle pull; adjust as you fight a fish.
- **Spool and technique videos**: handy visuals to get the most out of this rig:
  - [Penn Squall II Levelwind Reel Review](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zD5kp3agTZ4)
  - [How to spool a Levelwind/Conventional Reel! Adding Monofilament Line to my Penn Squall!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMkM1GHlsCQ)
- **Product links for quick gear checks**:
  - [PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Black/Gold](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096L3BLYK?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [PENN Squall II Level Wind Conventional Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Black/Gold (another option)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096L4NQQ7?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

- **Seasonal note (mid fall)**: water temps dropping means fish hug structure and deeper pockets. Cast to ledges, fish around channels at first light or after sunset, and be ready to adjust weight and leader length as currents shift. A little patience and a steady hand go a long way with this setup. 🌬️🧭

With proper line choice, a solid drag, and the right rig, you’ll boat memorable fish this season. You’ve got this—tight lines and full nets! 💪🎣

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