Hello Everyone,
This is my first post on the forum and I want to take you in advance for you help. I want to start off by saying that I have spent the better part of the day (dont tell my boss) doing research on the senator 10/0, but there isn't a ton of information out there on it. I have been doing a lot of surf fishing with spinning reels and want to get into surf fishing for larger sharks. I'm not quite ready to invest $500+ dollars in a reel, so I was leaning towards a senator 9/0. That is until a came across a senator 10/0 for what looks to be a good deal. My primary concern with it is the availability of parts due to it being discontinued. My primary fear is warping the spool. What are the odd of this actually happening while shark fishing, and how can i minimize these odds. Also how can I tell the difference between the old model and the new one? The reel already has line on it so i cannot look at the spool. Is there anything else I should be concerned about this reel or upgrades you deem absolutely necessary right away. I already intend to upgrade the drag if it has not already been done.
I have attached the only two photos of it I have. I am going to check it out in person on Saturday and want to know as much as possible about it before then.
Thank you again for all of your help and I apologize if some of this has been covered in previous posts.
First off welcome, you should introduce yourself in the welcome section and tell us a little bit about yourself and your type of fishing. Second, you are not going to cast that to far or any conventional reel for large sharks. You're going to need a yak too. I would rather use a 2 speed from the beach. A single speed would be fine if you were in a boat shark fishing to chase it. Rudy
Hi Demetrius —
Welcome!...like Rudy sez, introduce yourself to the site — you will get much more help doing that...
As for the 10/0 being discontinued — I wouldn't worry too much about that, since most parts are still available — most parts are the same on a 12/0, with the exception of a few parts like the spool, and stand. And even those parts are available through worldwide sources.
The 10/0 was discontinued possibly 30 years ago.
Of the big Senators — 10/0, 12/0, 14/0, and 16/0 — just remember that a 10 is just a slightly narrowed 12. As is a 14 a slightly narrowed 16.
And the reality is, if the reel hasn't been abused (and it looks like it hasn't) — most parts should be fine, after a good cleaning, new modern drag stack, and proper lube and oil.
10/0's are a special reel to a lot of folks — hope you are able to get it.
And if you are serious about your fishing — this isn't the last reel you will own.
Best,
Fred
You will get a variety of thoughts here most applauding the purchase & use of most any Senator reel.
But honestly for $500 you can get a very nice used 50 size reel. $570 or close gets you a brand new Avet 50.
Unless fishing these older style reels is just your thing there is absolutely no way I would spend that kind of money for a Senator I wanted to fish. A big 2 speed is so much more efficient & enjoyable for me to fish... Jeff
Quote from: RowdyW on June 26, 2019, 10:26:47 PM
First off welcome, you should introduce yourself in the welcome section and tell us a little bit about yourself and your type of fishing. Second, you are not going to cast that to far or any conventional reel for large sharks. You're going to need a yak too. I would rather use a 2 speed from the beach. A single speed would be fine if you were in a boat shark fishing to chase it. Rudy
Thank you. I will definitely go introduce myself. I have a kayak and plan on using it to kayak out the bait. I wish i could afford a 2 speed reel but they are so darn expensive. one day
Quote from: foakes on June 26, 2019, 11:34:46 PM
Hi Demetrius —
Welcome!...like Rudy sez, introduce yourself to the site — you will get much more help doing that...
As for the 10/0 being discontinued — I wouldn't worry too much about that, since most parts are still available — most parts are the same on a 12/0, with the exception of a few parts like the spool, and stand. And even those parts are available through worldwide sources.
The 10/0 was discontinued possibly 30 years ago.
Of the big Senators — 10/0, 12/0, 14/0, and 16/0 — just remember that a 10 is just a slightly narrowed 12. As is a 14 a slightly narrowed 16.
And the reality is, if the reel hasn't been abused (and it looks like it hasn't) — most parts should be fine, after a good cleaning, new modern drag stack, and proper lube and oil.
10/0's are a special reel to a lot of folks — hope you are able to get it.
And if you are serious about your fishing — this isn't the last reel you will own.
Best,
Fred
Thank you for the response. Yes I am wanting it because It's as strong as the 12/0 but more affordable. I've heard conflicting options about fishing larger sharks with the 9/0. I know i'm not going to be catching a 10'+ shark with it but I'm aiming for between 5-10'. I have a daiwa bg 8000 spinning reel for smaller sharks like blacktips. I'm definitely going to get it now if it checks out. I recently moved down to Florida and have become completely and utterly addicted to saltwater fishing!
Quote from: Rivverrat on June 26, 2019, 11:42:07 PM
You will get a variety of thoughts here most applauding the purchase & use of most any Senator reel.
But honestly for $500 you can get a very nice used 50 size reel. $570 or close gets you a brand new Avet 50.
Unless fishing these older style reels is just your thing there is absolutely no way I would spend that kind of money for a Senator I wanted to fish. A big 2 speed is so much more efficient & enjoyable for me to fish... Jeff
you absolutely right, but I found a guy selling this senator 10/0 with a rod for $250. I feel more comfortable with that price for my first real shark reel. If i stick with shark fishing (which I fully intend to) I will make a larger investment into a more modern reel
very reasonable price for the reel alone in that condition.
Surf Slayer, check out my earlier post about having to get a yearly shark permit. With the spinner you can cast from the beach with a wire leader shorter then 4 ft. long. Yaking out a bait you need the permit. The new rule starts 7/01/19, that's only a few days from now. you've got to get 100% correct on the FWC quiz or no permit. :-\
Quote from: RowdyW on June 27, 2019, 12:29:11 AM
Surf Slayer, check out my earlier post about having to get a yearly shark permit. With the spinner you can cast from the beach with a wire leader shorter then 4 ft. long. Yaking out a bait you need the permit. The new rule starts 7/01/19, that's only a few days from now. you've got to get 100% correct on the FWC quiz or no permit. :-\
Thanks for the heads up, but I already passed the quiz and got my permit! The quiz was only 10 questions and wasn't hard at all. Overall it took about 30 minutes to complete the whole course and take the quiz. The permit was free too which was nice. You are correct that it goes into effect 7/1/19. I have also volunteered to do some tagging. I am all about conservation and learning about these incredible animals.
Quote from: thorhammer on June 27, 2019, 12:28:52 AM
very reasonable price for the reel alone in that condition.
That's what i was thinking. It's why I am a little nervous that something is wrong with it and I won't spot it because I dont have much experience with conventional reels.
hard to tell vintage from the pics. you MIGHT have a three piece spool. If you buy it, and i would, see if you can back -the line onto another reel, or despool and start fresh. the latter is the best option so you know what you have: fresh line and what kind of spool. If it's a three piece spool, wind on some heavy braid or dacron as backing- 100 yds will do- then top off with mono and you will avoid compressing the spool.
As Rudy, said, pop in greased carbon fiber drags- kit is about 15 bucks. We can help you through that.
Quote from: thorhammer on June 27, 2019, 01:05:50 AM
hard to tell vintage from the pics. you MIGHT have a three piece spool. If you buy it, and i would, see if you can back -the line onto another reel, or despool and start fresh. the latter is the best option so you know what you have: fresh line and what kind of spool. If it's a three piece spool, wind on some heavy braid or dacron as backing- 100 yds will do- then top off with mono and you will avoid compressing the spool.
As Rudy, said, pop in greased carbon fiber drags- kit is about 15 bucks. We can help you through that.
Thanks for the advice. Were the old three piece spools chromed? The seller said in his description that it is a chromed spool.
Yes, chrome over brass. Mine (from Daron the Sharkhunter) is one of my favorite reels.
Quote from: Surf Slayer on June 27, 2019, 12:18:27 AM
Quote from: Rivverrat on June 26, 2019, 11:42:07 PM
You will get a variety of thoughts here most applauding the purchase & use of most any Senator reel.
But honestly for $500 you can get a very nice used 50 size reel. $570 or close gets you a brand new Avet 50.
Unless fishing these older style reels is just your thing there is absolutely no way I would spend that kind of money for a Senator I wanted to fish. A big 2 speed is so much more efficient & enjoyable for me to fish... Jeff
you absolutely right, but I found a guy selling this senator 10/0 with a rod for $250. I feel more comfortable with that price for my first real shark reel. If i stick with shark fishing (which I fully intend to) I will make a larger investment into a more modern reel
Oh ! I misread your opening post I wouldnt hesitate to buy this reel at that price. I cant afford a newer big 2 speed myself right now so I completely understand... Jeff
Good to know. I am getting too excited about this reel. I am going to be bummed if he sells it before saturday or it is in bad condition internally. How will i be able to tell if the spool is warped/compressed with all of that line on it? i doubt he will let me remove it as it is one of his "selling points". I am definitely going to get fresh line if I buy it.
Quote from: Rivverrat on June 27, 2019, 01:43:09 AM
Quote from: Surf Slayer on June 27, 2019, 12:18:27 AM
Quote from: Rivverrat on June 26, 2019, 11:42:07 PM
You will get a variety of thoughts here most applauding the purchase & use of most any Senator reel.
But honestly for $500 you can get a very nice used 50 size reel. $570 or close gets you a brand new Avet 50.
Unless fishing these older style reels is just your thing there is absolutely no way I would spend that kind of money for a Senator I wanted to fish. A big 2 speed is so much more efficient & enjoyable for me to fish... Jeff
you absolutely right, but I found a guy selling this senator 10/0 with a rod for $250. I feel more comfortable with that price for my first real shark reel. If i stick with shark fishing (which I fully intend to) I will make a larger investment into a more modern reel
Oh ! I misread your opening post I wouldnt hesitate to buy this reel at that price. I cant afford a newer big 2 speed myself right now so I completely understand... Jeff
No worries! I probably did not word it very clearly. writing has never been one of my strengths. I will definitely buy it now if it checks out. I appreciate your help.
Crank the reel and see if the spool rubs anywhere.
Grab it before it's gone, you won't find a better reel for sharks.
The 10/0 is fourth in line from the larges Senator, but it's only second when it comes to its guts.
It is in great condition and very much worth it.
Sal
Frankly, I am surprised you haven't tied it up or bought it yet.
If it is a Craigslist or something like that — I would doubt it waits for you until Saturday.
If you don't like it for any reason — mechanical or personal — I will buy it from you and make you whole on it.
It is a very good value...
Can't be any more blunt than that.
Let us know what you end up doing — and welcome once again!
Best,
Fred
I agree with uncle sal,,,, ;) grab it,,,and if the rod has aftco rod butt or rollers it's even a better deal and welcome from Salem va,,,,,, ;D
I used to be in your shoes way back when, but got the 12/0. With that said, I think everything larger than a 9/0 (or maybe even 6/0) is now a dinosaur made obsolete by spectra line. If you were going to fish straight mono or, heaven forbid, braided nylon or Dacron you would need that much spool capacity. With a backing of modern line the reel can be much smaller and still get the job done. Big reels are fun to look at but not-so-fun to lug up and down the beach.
-steve
Welcome!
I wouldn't worry about it being a three piece spool with those ball bearings. It is a one piece and very strong.
Quote from: foakes on June 27, 2019, 03:35:27 AM
Frankly, I am surprised you haven't tied it up or bought it yet.
If it is a Craigslist or something like that — I would doubt it waits for you until Saturday.
If you don't like it for any reason — mechanical or personal — I will buy it from you and make you whole on it.
It is a very good value...
Can't be any more blunt than that.
Let us know what you end up doing — and welcome once again!
Best,
Fred
I haven't grabbed it yet because it's 2 hours away from me in Tampa. I am going to be in Tampa on Saturday so that is why I am waiting. It's been on craigslist for 2 weeks now so I hope it holds out another 2 days. I meeting the guy at 9am Saturday morning
Quote from: foakes on June 27, 2019, 03:35:27 AM
Frankly, I am surprised you haven't tied it up or bought it yet.
If it is a Craigslist or something like that — I would doubt it waits for you until Saturday.
If you don't like it for any reason — mechanical or personal — I will buy it from you and make you whole on it.
It is a very good value...
Can't be any more blunt than that.
Let us know what you end up doing — and welcome once again!
Best,
Fred
I just messaged they guy and told him to let me know if anyone else asks him to see it before Saturday. Id drive over there before then because I really want that reel now.
Quote from: Alto Mare on June 27, 2019, 02:26:55 AM
Grab it before it's gone, you won't find a better reel for sharks.
The 10/0 is fourth in line from the larges Senator, but it's only second when it comes to its guts.
It is in great condition and very much worth it.
Sal
Very good point. I appreciate the comment. I working my hardest to get it. I told him I'd drive over to get it before Saturday if someone else shows interest. I'd just prefer not to wasted 4 hours and a half tank of gas if i don't have to.
Can't lose situation- Fred is backing you, and I'm sure the same crossed other member's mind for the same, because it did mine.
Quote from: Surf Slayer on June 27, 2019, 12:13:50 PM
............ because I really want that reel now.
LOL
everytime I see this kinds of threads like :
Do I need this reel?
Shoudl I buy this reel?
etc
is only looking for that extra push to go for it, Im sure of that cuz I made a similar thread few years back asking "do I need I Baja Special reel?", now I have three of them LOL, but its not my fault, I blame of the ohana guys that convinced me how good the reel was under the hood and of course I also blame Tom from Cortez Convertions (who's Bday is today btw) that came up with a great fix and upgrade for the aquiles heel for the Baja Special, anyway, good luck with the reel that thing its a tank and could be a super tank with many of the current upgrades offered by the ohana family and the many experts on those big penn senator boys.
btw, I have a 12/0 which is the same reel than the 10/0 but more wide
Quote from: steelfish on June 27, 2019, 05:31:29 PM
Quote from: Surf Slayer on June 27, 2019, 12:13:50 PM
............ because I really want that reel now.
LOL
everytime I see this kinds of threads like :
Do I need this reel?
Shoudl I buy this reel?
etc
is only looking for that extra push to go for it, Im sure of that cuz I made a similar thread few years back asking "do I need I Baja Special reel?", now I have three of them LOL, but its not my fault, I blame of the ohana guys that convinced me how good the reel was under the hood and of course I also blame Tom from Cortez Convertions (who's Bday is today btw) that came up with a great fix and upgrade for the aquiles heel for the Baja Special, anyway, good luck with the reel that thing its a tank and could be a super tank with many of the current upgrades offered by the ohana family and the many experts on those big penn senator boys.
btw, I have a 12/0 which is the same reel than the 10/0 but more wide
haha yeah i'm sure posted like this get posted all the time. The only reason I posted it is because I couldnt find much information on the 10/0. Ive heard that their spools can fail and I was worried about that and not being able to find a replacement. If i am able to get this reel, I am looking forward to scouring though this site for ways to upgrade and improve it. This site if full of knowledgeable and helpful people, and I appreciate everyone not scoffing at my newbie questions.
Quote from: Surf Slayer on June 27, 2019, 06:32:54 PM
The only reason I posted it is because I couldnt find much information on the 10/0.
serve yourself, just type 116a, 116 and 116L on the space and grab a coffee
https://alantani.com/index.php?action=search2
Demetrius, asking these guys whether or not you should buy a reel, let alone a Senator, will only cost you more money.....we probably have 1/3 of the total production of Penn Senators tied up in this group ;D.....but hey "you cant take it (money) with you when you die".....this is probably why I have so many myself ;).....The 10/0 is a great reel, you will not be disappointed.....Bill
Quote from: Bill B (Tarfu) on June 27, 2019, 10:08:18 PM
Demetrius, asking these guys whether or not you should buy a reel, let alone a Senator, will only cost you more money.....we probably have 1/3 of the total production of Penn Senators tied up in this group ;D.....but hey "you cant take it (money) with you when you die".....this is probably why I have so many myself ;).....The 10/0 is a great reel, you will not be disappointed.....Bill
hahaha good to know. I'm glad for all of yall's knowledge. I had read some conflicting things about the 10/0, but y'all have put my mind to ease about it.
your right about not being able to take it with you! I.m here for a good time not a long time. probably why i'm so interested in big shark fishing. Ill let you know if I am able to get it. God only knows how much money ill spend upgrading it once I get it. I can't help myself from tinkering with things.
Yup! We love our Penn Senator around here.
Here are just a couple of mine:🙂
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=2493.msg15855#msg15855
Quote from: Alto Mare on June 27, 2019, 11:32:58 PM
Yup! We love our Penn Senator around here.
Here are just a couple of mine:🙂
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=2493.msg15855#msg15855
You can't go wrong with a classic. That's a beautiful collection you have there! one day.....
I am now the proud owner of a penn senator 10/0! Can't wait to get it cleaned up.
It came with this custom rod. Don't know anything about it though. Don't even know it's line rating.
When you take it apart soak the spool in white vinegar for a half hour or so & then wash it down with a mix of baking soda and warm water. That will get rid of the corrosion and neutralize the vinegar.
Quote from: RowdyW on June 30, 2019, 12:29:12 AM
When you take it apart soak the spool in white vinegar for a half hour or so & then wash it down with a mix of baking soda and warm water. That will get rid of the corrosion and neutralize the vinegar.
Thank you! I was just about to search the site for the best method to clean the spool. I'll have to try this out
Congratulations on one of the Big Boys....and Welcome to the Darkside....looks like we have another one ;D. Bill
Congrats ! Spool is one piece & pretty clean. For money spent a very nice score... Jeff
Those green knobs are my favorite
Pretty sure that's a solid glas blank- I'd think you can run 80 nor 100 on that reel pretty easy with it. Nice reel!
I'm glad you got it.
It is worth it, but not if you start replacing parts to make it pretty.
Leave it as is after a good cleaning, upgrade the drags and gear sleeve and go get yourself a trophy shark. :)
Sal
Congratulations on your purchase !! I've *dreamed* about a "big Penn", for a long time ! Can't justify one, can't afford one, don't "need" one, but I sure as heck WANT one !!!LOL !!
FYI, Crow, "justify" is a four-letter word on this forum and violates the 12 Year Old rule.... ;D
OK, I'll "watch my language " in the future :-[!! ;D ;D
That's a great reel,,,,,, :D and your going down the rabbit hole,,,,, ;) but that's ok,,,,,,,,, ;D
Quote from: 1badf350 on June 30, 2019, 11:56:25 AM
Those green knobs are my favorite
Green is my favorite color so I have to agree ;D
Quote from: thorhammer on June 30, 2019, 12:26:57 PM
Pretty sure that's a solid glas blank- I'd think you can run 80 nor 100 on that reel pretty easy with it. Nice reel!
Great! I am planning to spool it with 100# and was worried the rod wouldn't be able to handle it. I know the previous owner only used 80#.
Quote from: Alto Mare on June 30, 2019, 12:29:24 PM
I'm glad you got it.
It is worth it, but not if you start replacing parts to make it pretty.
Leave it as is after a good cleaning, upgrade the drags and gear sleeve and go get yourself a trophy shark. :)
Sal
Yes, I don't plan on altering it too much. I will upgrade the drag for sure. What benefit will i get from upgrading the gear sleeve and do you think it is absolutely necessary?
Trophy shark is the goal!! The previous owner told me he landed a 9ft hammerhead on the set up he sold me. Though, I am always weary of fisher man and their fish stories. ;)
get a short piece of 100 lb and tie up to see how the rod flexes.
Quote from: Crow on June 30, 2019, 12:31:01 PM
Congratulations on your purchase !! I've *dreamed* about a "big Penn", for a long time ! Can't justify one, can't afford one, don't "need" one, but I sure as heck WANT one !!!LOL !!
I'm in the same boat as you Crow! :'( ;D
Quote from: xjchad on July 01, 2019, 02:50:06 PM
Quote from: Crow on June 30, 2019, 12:31:01 PM
Congratulations on your purchase !! I've *dreamed* about a "big Penn", for a long time ! Can't justify one, can't afford one, don't "need" one, but I sure as heck WANT one !!!LOL !!
I'm in the same boat as you Crow! :'( ;D
LOL
I was in the same boat, I never found a justification either I couldt afford one and since I dont fish for sharks I actually didnt "needed" one but of course I wanted one, few months ago I got one 12/0 without expecting it, it was a direct trade for some rod restoration work, it needed and still needs lots of TLC to making it work tho, I already have all the parts needed to complete it and have it ready for a shark expedition trip with a nice upgraded drag stack (thanks Daron again) but I still havent had its the time to work on ti and finish it, thanks God I have many reels and rods to work and fix and I dont like to make customers wait.
Hi Mr Slayer, whats your latest update on this reel rod, have you caught anything with it yet, they are a nice manageable reel, in the senator range, cheers Don.
I second that. I'm curious to hear what kind of luck you have had.
I just got into shark fishing this year. Luckily we don't need huge reels and kayaks to catch sharks out here.