First Impressions of Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast
The Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast promises a blend of power, sensitivity, and durability for surf fishing. Marketed towards anglers seeking a reliable tool to handle the demanding conditions of saltwater environments, this rod boasts Fuji Alconite guides, a Fuji reel seat, and a graphite composite blank. Its design aims for long casts and the ability to handle a variety of species, making it an intriguing option for both seasoned surfcasters and those looking to step up their game.
My quest for a new surf rod stemmed from a growing frustration with my existing gear. I needed a rod that could consistently launch lures beyond the breakers and still provide the sensitivity to detect subtle strikes from finicky fish. The Penn Battalion II Surf Rod caught my eye with its promise of quality components and a balanced design, piquing my interest and prompting me to see if it could deliver.
Upon unboxing, the rod immediately impressed with its sleek black and gold color scheme. The tack shrink handle felt secure and comfortable in my hand, offering a confident grip. The overall weight felt balanced, hinting at good castability and the Fuji Alconite guides looked robust and ready for the harsh saltwater environment.
I was also considering the Shimano Teramar and the Okuma Cedros surf rods. However, the Penn Battalion II ultimately won me over with its combination of a reputable brand, quality components like the Fuji reel seat, and a price point that felt justified for the advertised features. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Penn Battalion II Surf Rod was on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a demanding surf fishing location known for its strong currents and shifting sandbars. I was targeting striped bass and bluefish, using a mix of casting spoons and live bait rigs. The conditions were challenging, with a stiff onshore breeze and choppy waves.
Despite the wind, the rod cast surprisingly well. The graphite composite blank loaded smoothly, and I was able to launch my lures significantly further than with my previous rod. I did not need a long time to get used to the rod; its intuitive design ensured I could easily adapt.
The only minor issue I noticed was that the tack shrink handle could become a little slick when coated in fish slime, but rinsing it off with saltwater quickly restored its grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Penn Battalion II has proven to be a reliable and capable surf rod. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from calm early mornings to blustery afternoons, and it has consistently performed well. There have been no durability issues, and it still looks as good as new.
The finish shows no signs of fading or chipping, and the Fuji Alconite guides have held up remarkably well against the constant exposure to saltwater and sand. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a rinse with freshwater and a wipe down with a clean cloth. It definitely outperforms my previous rods in casting distance and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast
Specifications
The Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast boasts a range of features tailored for surf fishing. It has a graphite composite blank which offers a balance of strength and sensitivity, crucial for detecting subtle strikes and handling powerful fish. At 10 feet in length, it aids in achieving long casting distances, essential for reaching fish beyond the breakers.
The rod’s moderate fast action provides a good compromise between casting distance and fish-fighting ability, while the medium heavy power rating indicates it can handle larger species and heavier lures. The rod is designed as a 2-piece construction for easier transport and storage. It is rated for 15-30 lb line weight and 2-6 oz lure weight, offering versatility for targeting a variety of species.
The rod is specifically designed for saltwater environments, and features a black/gold color scheme. The Handle Type E refers to the specific design and length of the handle. The rubber shrink tube handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet.
The Fuji Alconite guides are known for their durability and smooth line flow, minimizing friction and maximizing casting distance. There are 8 + TIP guides, strategically placed along the blank to optimize performance. A Fuji Graphite reel seat provides a secure and reliable platform for mounting your reel.
Additional features include a rubber shrink tube rod butt, offering added comfort and grip during extended use. The rod weighs in at 14.3 oz, making it relatively lightweight for its size and power. These specifications contribute to a well-balanced and capable surf fishing tool.
Performance & Functionality
The Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast truly shines in its casting performance. The graphite composite blank loads smoothly and efficiently, allowing for impressive casting distances, even with heavier lures. Its sensitivity is also commendable, transmitting subtle strikes effectively.
While it excels at casting distance, the rod also provides ample power for fighting larger fish. It handles the strong runs of striped bass and bluefish with ease, providing confidence and control throughout the fight. One minor area for improvement would be a slightly more refined finish on the reel seat threads, as they can feel a bit rough at times. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a surf rod in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Penn Battalion II is impressive for its price point. The graphite composite blank feels solid and well-constructed, and the Fuji Alconite guides are securely mounted and aligned. The rod feels balanced in hand, even with a larger surf reel attached.
The tack shrink handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The overall design is user-friendly, and there’s no significant learning curve. Its weight of 14.3oz is suitable for hours of usage.
Durability & Maintenance
The Penn Battalion II appears to be built to last. After months of regular use in saltwater environments, there are no signs of corrosion or degradation. The Fuji Alconite guides are particularly resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a rinse with freshwater after each use. With proper care, this rod should provide many years of reliable service. The quality materials and construction suggest a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the rod itself. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of surf fishing reels and line types. It is perfectly paired with the Penn Battle III and Spinfisher VI spinning reels as mentioned by Penn Fishing.
While the rod itself doesn’t offer many customization options, anglers can experiment with different line types and lure weights to optimize its performance for specific fishing conditions. The standard Fuji reel seat also allows for easy swapping of reels.
Pros and Cons of Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast
Pros
- Excellent casting distance: The graphite composite blank and Fuji Alconite guides combine to deliver impressive casting performance.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments.
- Comfortable grip: The tack shrink handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet.
- Versatile performance: Suitable for targeting a variety of species with different lure weights.
- Reputable brand: Penn Fishing is a trusted name in the fishing industry.
Cons
- Slick handle when slimy: The tack shrink handle can be somewhat slippery when coated in fish slime, although easily remedied.
- Plain Finish: The finish and design could be more exciting and visually appealing.
Who Should Buy Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast?
The Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast is perfect for surf anglers of all skill levels who are looking for a reliable and capable rod that won’t break the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for those targeting striped bass, bluefish, and other common inshore species. Experienced anglers will appreciate the rod’s casting distance and fish-fighting power.
Anglers who prioritize aesthetics over performance might want to consider other options, as the Penn Battalion II has a more functional than flashy design. Those primarily fishing in freshwater environments would also likely find better-suited rods for their specific needs. A good quality surf reel, like the Penn Battle III or Spinfisher VI, is a must-have accessory to pair with this rod.
Conclusion on Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast
Overall, the Penn Fishing Penn Battalion II Surf Rod, Graphite Composite, Tack Shrink Handle, Fiji Seat, Fuji Alconite Guides, 15-30lb, 2-6oz, Cast is an excellent value for the money. It offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and features at a reasonable price point of $129.95. Its casting distance and fish-fighting power are particularly impressive.
I would definitely recommend this rod to anyone looking for a reliable and capable surf fishing tool. It’s a solid choice for both beginners and experienced anglers alike. Grab a Penn Battalion II Surf Rod and hit the beach; you won’t be disappointed!