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Learn More »A Tackle Shop Guide to the Penn Warfare Overhead Combo
One of the most common setups we sell in the shop is a general-purpose boat combo. Anglers aren't always looking for a technical, high-end reel; they just want a solid, no-fuss outfit for dropping baits for snapper, flathead, and other reef fish. The Penn Warfare combo is our answer for this. It bundles a proven reel with a matched rod, all at a price that makes sense.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"This is one of our most popular combos for new boat owners or anyone getting into offshore bait fishing. They come in, they don't want something complex or flimsy, they just want a reliable fishing combo setup for bottom-bashing that can handle a good snapper or gummy shark. The Warfare reel, especially with the level wind (LW) model feature, is what we recommend. The level wind does the line-lay for you, so you don't have to guide it with your thumb. It's a solid, dependable combo for offshore boat fishing offering quality for the price."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm) | 20+ years industry experience
Decoding the Features: What Matters
This combo is built for saltwater boat fishing. Here’s what the components mean for you.
Pro-Tips for Using Your Overhead Combo
Using an overhead is easy, but a few tips make a big difference.
- What is the "Clicker" (Ratchet) for? The clicker on the side of the reel is a bite alarm. You put it "on" when you're dropping a bait down or sitting the rod in the holder. It makes a loud clicking noise when a fish pulls line, letting you know you've got a bite. Important: Always turn the clicker "off" *after* you set the hook and start fighting the fish.
- Setting the Star Drag: The "star" wheel next to the handle is your drag. Before you drop your line, set it by pulling line off the spool by hand. It should be firm, but not so tight that you can't pull line. You want a fish to be able to take line on its first big run.
- Controlling the Spool: This is a boat reel, not a casting reel. To drop your bait, you turn the reels drop lever on (located on the right hand side) and control the speed of the spool with your thumb where necessary. This prevents it from spinning too fast and causing a "bird's nest" or backlash.
Technical Specifications
We stock the two most popular level-wind (LW) models, the 20LW and 30LW. The 20LW is a great all-rounder, while the 30LW offers more line capacity for deeper water or bigger fish.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Bearings | Line Rating | Rod Length | Braid (yd/lb) | Mono (yd/lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warfare II 20LW / 601OHMH | 5.2:1 | 2+1 | 10-15kg | 6'0" | 865/20, 650/30, 455/50 | 475/15, 315/20, 265/25 |
| Warfare II 30LW / 591OHH | 3.9:1 | 2+1 | 15-24kg | 5'9" | 1020/30, 710/50, 580/65 | 455/25, 370/30, 260/40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this combo built for? Trolling or bottom-bashing?
It's built for both. It's a great all-round boat combo. The level wind and clicker make it perfect for trolling a small lure or skirt, and its tough rod and drag system are ideal for dropping baits to the bottom for snapper, gummy sharks, and other reef fish.
Why choose this overhead instead of a big spinning combo?
That's a common question. For just dropping baits straight down (bottom-bashing), an overhead combo is often easier. You have more direct winching power, and it's simpler to drop and hold a bait at a specific depth using just your thumb and the gear lever.
What line should I spool this with? Braid or Mono?
You can use either. Monofilament line is very forgiving and its stretch is a good shock absorber. However, most anglers now use braid (e.g., 30-50lb) because its thin diameter lets you get to the bottom with less weight, and the zero stretch lets you feel every single bite.
The frame is graphite. Will it flex or break on a big fish?
That's a fair question. While a more expensive full-metal reel will be more rigid, the graphite on this reel is very strong and is perfectly fine for its rated line class. Its main benefit is being light and the materiel is corrosion-proof, which is what you want in a reel that gets covered in salt spray.
Can I cast this combo?
It's not a casting reel. A level wind reel is not designed for casting long distances like a baitcaster. It's designed for trolling and dropping baits straight down from the side of the boat. Trying to "cast" it like a spinning reel will usually result in a backlash (bird's nest).
A solid, no-fuss overhead setup perfect for Australian offshore boat fishing. Choose your Penn Warfare model and add this combo to your cart.
