Talk to me after you charter a boat for 180 days a year like my dad.

They used to be awesome. Now they are not.

My uncle ran "Big Al" salmon charter out of Port Bay for more than 20 years. Penns served him just fine.  Anyway, surfcasting isn't the same environment as a charter boat.  I service quite a few of these reels, and Penns are fine.  Cheapo reels from any brand don't last.

That 704 is older than the hills. She just had a facelift last year.

Maybe they were older Penns. Im told those were indestructible. Im saying there are many better reels than modern penns.

Maybe they were older Penns. Im told those were indestructible. Im saying there are many better reels than modern penns.

If you want a reel that you can abuse, use under water and not have to maintain, then save for a Van Stall. I personally don't feel comfortable spending $700+ on a chinese reel.

There is also ZeeBaas ($900+) and they are also being made in China now.

Penn is releasing a new surf reel this year that is made in the US.

You may also try a Saltiga or Stella. I prefer non bailed reels, nothing worse than seeing a $25 plug go sailing off into the horizon.

Its not a surf reel I am saving for, It is a inshore fishing reel. (like flounder and specs). I am not saying I would ever dunk it in water or abuse, I am just talkin about the abuse of saltwater fishing, even when properly maintained 

Daiwa coastal inshore. It's basically a Tierra with a waterproof drag.

I use a 4000 size Stradic, smooth as butter.

I own most of the inshore reels and imo the Quantum Cabo is the best in the $200 and under market, yes better than the Stradic 4000 which I own as well.  My everyday reel is the Soron 40, I love it.

One of my neighbors ( snowbird from New Jersey )is charter boat captain specializing in tuna, fishes nothing but Penn, says he wouldn't use anything else.