Some fishing advice needed on reels

[menegaux]

Am getting a new reel and am stuck beteen the Penn 30 VSW and the 16 VSX, anyone have any experience with these two reels or can offer some insight?
I called Penn directly and got a non-answer. Was basically told that both are equally as good and that the 16 was designed to be a lighter reel that can handle the heavier action. Line capacities and features virtually the same between the two reels, that's why I am hoping to run into someone who's actually got some first hand knowledge on them.

The only time I fish in saltwater is when I am in the Abaco's and go for the same as everyone else.

The 16 VSX is 18 oz. lighter than the 30VSW though but I am wondering about durability and also if I ever do want to go out a little further and try for a Sail or a Marlin it would be nice to have another reel that can handle it. I currently have a Penn 50S and it a little bit bearish and pretty heavy.

thanks in advance and have a happy holiday everyone.

[FarmerBob]

Try asking your question on the Florida Sportsman fishing forum. Also lots of good answers there.

http://outdoorsbest.zeroforum.com/zeroforum?id=1

[menegaux]

Thanks, I'll give it a shot

[Rock Steady]

IMHO you'll be fine w/ the 16. Less stress, more fun.
If it's blue... hope it hits the 50.

Best,

c

[big fish]

Hello,

I don't know if you are stuck on a Penn brand reel, but if you want a much lighter reel...you could go with a Shimano graphite reel. You could then get a TLD 50 2 speed that would be much lighter in weight, and have the capability for the larger fish. I recommend them highly. You could probably even handle a moderate Blue with it.

tight lines-------------------------------------------<'))))))))><

Bruce

[Steve B]

If you decide on the 30VSW, take a look at the Avet Pro EX 30/02. 35 lbs. of drag and $100 cheaper.

[Raptor]

I also like the Avets and have a variety of them. I keep Shimanos in Abaco and like them. No experience with the new Penns but the older 50 Wides I have here don't get used much, too unrefined.

[menegaux]

Thanks all, I'm gonna go with the Penn 16, I'm stuck on Penn and the new reels look nice and this one is a bit lighter. And with all this good advice I'll have the justification with the wife to try one of the Avets now.