Penn International 975

GOT2FISH · 01-21-2004, 01:06 PM

Im looking for a real that will last and be able to pass to my son when I'm to old to fish. I was thinking of the penn 975 just because they have been around so long and if parts are needed they may be avaliable 20 or so years down the road. What are your thoughts!!

Pete · 01-21-2004, 01:28 PM

I'm not sure what you will be using the reel for, but for salmon and keeper sturgeon, I've got two 965s and I absolutely love them. They are rugged, functional and easily serviceable. I've heard that Penn is or will soon be manufactured overseas, so if American-made is important to you, hit the store soon.

wootersen · 01-21-2004, 01:33 PM

I read on a previous post that Penn was sold to Master. As a result, a lot of the parts are going to be manufactured in China. There will probably be a decrease in quality as a result of the buy-out.

An Ambassaduer is always a good choice for parts availability and durability. Or if you need something with more line capacity, try the Daiwa 50H.

The fishing gear I got from my Grampa has more sentimental value than anything else. I wouldn't dare fish with it. Not only am I afraid to break it, but todays rods and reels outperform it hands down. I think your son will appreciate the memories more than anything else.

Ty · 01-21-2004, 02:27 PM

Shimano all the way!!! Any questions? Try the new Tioga.........

Private-Aye-Fish · 01-21-2004, 02:33 PM

Can't go wrong with a Penn Reel! :smile:

gimmeumpqua · 01-21-2004, 03:53 PM

Have 2 955s,2 965s and 2 975s. I have had most of them for 3-4 years and they are fantastic. I feel much better than the calcuttas I have owned. I would also would seriously look at the Okumas. My Titus's are as well made as my larger Penn internationals.

Kurt

HOGGEMIN · 01-21-2004, 05:12 PM

The Penn International 975 is a very good reel, I own 6 of the 900 series reels. plus there American made!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ty · 01-21-2004, 06:39 PM

Check these out before u buy a Penn:
http://fish.shimano.com/publish/cont...al/torium.html

Ty · 01-21-2004, 06:54 PM

Check these out before a Penn too:
http://fish.shimano.com/publish/cont...al/takota.html

reel guru · 01-22-2004, 01:58 AM

The Penn Int'l series of reels are great. However, I work at Ollie Damon's and I would challenge anyone to argue that Penn's parts availability is anything other than lacking.Many times Penn has dicontinued parts on us with little or no notice. I would check out either the Shimano Tekota or Daiwa's Sealine series or 50H. Parts are easy to get and I would personably feel better about buying one of those other than Penn. My 2 cents.

01-22-2004, 06:29 AM

reel guru,
That's the only problem I have with Penn Reels. I have several 349's and 10's that I can't use due to lack of parts. At least I can cross reference parts for my 210's. Penn Reels are tough, simple and easy to work on, when you can get the parts.

I heard that Penn is moving production overseas too.