Recently a friend of mine sent me a 180 that he built out of many different parts. I found it interesting and a good small reel to use with modern braided fishing lines.
Here's a look and brief description;
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20007%20617%20x%20475_zpsn7jygqxd.jpg)
Can't miss the classic stippled head plate of the Penn 180.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20009%20429%20x%20397_zpsqigxuyw6.jpg)
The old style chrome on brass spool is taken from a Surfmaster 100.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20012%20599%20x%20419_zpsm364yuug.jpg)
Tail plate is off a Penn 155.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20015%20480%20x%20497_zpspab7vpvd.jpg)
Stand is from a Penn 49. This is a massive improvement. It gives this little reel a very solid and rod clamped foundation.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20020%20601%20x%20288_zpsqufn9ksw.jpg)
Handle is a modern Penn 3/0 Power Handle. Many different handles can be used. This is is the perfect upgrade in my opinion.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/Penn%20Baymaster%20180--custom%20004%20546%20x%20445_zps4xwlmzns.jpg)
For a very small amount of money, a fisherman can build himself a tough little reel for use with modern lines. I use one of these with a more modern aluminum spool and a Newell Stand. Build with a steel gear set and HT100 drags and you will have a low priced little tank. IMHO.
I have one with a full Newell kit except for a 100L Penn spool. I really enjoy this size reel and it has been talked about extensively on here.
Now go ketch something with it!
Ron
QuoteNow go ketch something with it!
GOOD GOD MAN!!!! You want me to get it wet. If I do that it will get rusty!!!!!
This is a little gem of a reel. I have one on the way from USA at present. It has a mottled spool and picture tail plate. Should make a nice pair with my 185.
It`s a loooong wait!!
Basto.
Beautiful reel, I have a few. That might actually be one of mine, I gave out a few as gifts with similar upgrades.
One is always with me, they're a pleasure to fish with.
QuoteBeautiful reel, I have a few. That might actually be one of mine, I gave out a few as gifts with similar upgrades.
One is always with me, they're a pleasure to fish with.
I know that this is not a new idea here; but, there are other places that are not as savvy as everyone is here. I put this same reel on Facebook and it is like a new innovation. Basically it is a great little reel that turns into a greater reel with some simple upgrades and I wanted to get that info out there. I see friends of mine paying big bucks for these little baby reels from Avet and Shimano. I think this reel can do the same job for a lot less money.
Sal, this is not one of yours. My friend in Maryland built this. I have another one I fish with and another one in the cleaning solution as we speak.. This one will be a gift, I think.
Mike, just kidding about being one of mine, that would be a heck of a coincidence. ;D
It doesn't matter if it has been done before, it's always nice to see others.
The more the merrier.
A couple of years ago I decided to give one double dogs:
Not that it needs it, but I had to do it ;D.
http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=11652.0
Shark Hunter did one of these as well.
I've been enjoying everything you share with us, you're an asset to this site.
Thank you Mike.
Sal
Thank You. This is a great site to spend time at. Learn and have fun at the same time. That is a rare opportunity. :)
Quote from: Penn Chronology on August 27, 2016, 02:48:37 PM
I found it interesting and a good small reel to use with modern braided fishing lines.
I agree, my 180 I recently put together works best with braided lines. A very versatile little reel. Wasn't it the one billed as Penn's first aim at freshwater?
QuoteI agree, my 180 I recently put together works best with braided lines. A very versatile little reel. Wasn't it the one billed as Penn's first aim at freshwater?
Yes and that is an interesting observation. All the Light Tackle reels of 1939 were the first Penn reels that suggested a freshwater cross over trait. That trait was the reel's stand. It is mentioned in all the 1939 Light Tackle Reel descriptions.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20CAtalogs/1939%20Penn%207%20Plain%20Box%20Catalog---pgs.%2020%20amp%2021%20804%20x%20632_zpsftbsgnkl.jpg)
I see the stand which is called cross plate is different to the stand on the later 180 reels. I think the stands came in two lengths on the later reels also.
Basto
QuoteInsert Quote
I see the stand which is called cross plate is different to the stand on the later 180 reels. I think the stands came in two lengths on the later reels also.
Basically this is the different stand set up.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20Light%20Tackle%20Reels/Saltwater%20stand---left----Freshwater%20Stand---right%20539%20x%20404_zps7vopfxak.jpg)
Saltwater stand on the left. Freshwater stand on the right.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Penn%20180%20Custom%20reel/1960s%20Penn%20Baymaster%20160---Customized%20011%20676%20x%20507_zpsmnmo3n6l.jpg)
On the next 180 I built (which actually used a 160 Head plate), I used a Penn 180S stand (seen in the above photo on the left); but, drilled it to accept a Penn 49 rod clamp assembly.
Thanks for the tip about the 30-49 reel seat. one of mine has the smaller fresh water seat and I would like to replace it. Both of mine have aluminum spools and steel gears and I just recently put leather plates from a Daiwa 27SH in the gear and a ht-100 155 under the gear. Very,very smooth 9-10lbs of drag with 30lb mono. They are going with me in November to the James to fish for Blue Cats.
QuoteThanks for the tip about the 30-49 reel seat. one of mine has the smaller fresh water seat and I would like to replace it. Both of mine have aluminum spools and steel gears and I just recently put leather plates from a Daiwa 27SH in the gear and a ht-100 155 under the gear. Very,very smooth 9-10lbs of drag with 30lb mono. They are going with me in November to the James to fish for Blue Cats.
I would think they are now perfect for the Blue Cats. Aluminum sppol, steel gears, drags you like and a 49 stand. Might out fish a $250 Avet or Shimano Calcutta!
Quote from: Penn Chronology on September 03, 2016, 03:29:31 PM
QuoteThanks for the tip about the 30-49 reel seat. one of mine has the smaller fresh water seat and I would like to replace it. Both of mine have aluminum spools and steel gears and I just recently put leather plates from a Daiwa 27SH in the gear and a ht-100 155 under the gear. Very,very smooth 9-10lbs of drag with 30lb mono. They are going with me in November to the James to fish for Blue Cats.
I would think they are now perfect for the Blue Cats. Aluminum sppol, steel gears, drags you like and a 49 stand. Might out fish a $250 Avet or Shimano Calcutta!
Thanks Mike, actually they are pushing two Fathom 15LW's or 25LW's into back up status. I like the ease of winding in with a 3/1 ratio. Next on the agenda is a set of 3/1's with a bigger set of drags and a larger diameter spool. Not too big though. I think that I have it figured out but if you have any hints, I would appreciate it. Thanks again.
QuoteThanks Mike, actually they are pushing two Fathom 15LW's or 25LW's into back up status
Wow, the lowly little 180 will push the Fathom LW's into a back seat. Otto Henze would be proud! The 180 does give more torque but is so much more vintage looking than a modern Fathom LW. I actually never had a Fathom in my hands, a bit more modern than anything I deal with.
The drag engineering on a Fathom seems so much more advanced than a 180. I find it interesting that you like the idea of the old 180! Hope it works out in favor of the 180.
The little monofil is the same as the 180 for all intents and purposes. There are a few of both on here that have been built with frames, drags, sleeves etc. They really do give anything a run for there money if you are happy with the slow speed (I am.)
Braid has made the capacity of this spool desirable. Funny how what comes around goes around.
Ron
Quote from: hurt locker on September 03, 2016, 03:53:10 PM
I like the ease of winding in with a 3/1 ratio. Next on the agenda is a set of 3/1's with a bigger set of drags and a larger diameter spool.
It sounds like a Surfmaster 250 might be right for your next agenda. It has the 3:1 gear ratio you like, but instead of the little #5-155 gear of the 180, you'll get a #5-60 gear. It's a little bigger, stronger, and can use Bryan's 5+1 kit to yield more big kitty stopping power. Also the Surfmaster 250 has a Jigmaster size spool.
If that spool is too wide you can get the same gear speed/gear size/spool dia. in a Long Beach 60...or a Delmar 285...or even the good ol' Seaboy 85. 8)
I agree with the 250, but a 1/0 Senator will give you everything the 250 does and keep the narrow stand.
Ron
Thanks for the suggestions. I will decide after I see how the 180's do on the James.
Will any of the tiburon frames fit the 180 penn ?
Yes,
The same frame as a 146 squidder or a 100 Surfmaster.
Ron
Hi Michael
On the reel you started this thread off with, you said the tail plate is off a 155. Does that mean this tail plate pattern was never on the 180?
The reason I ask is that my 180 has this tail plate pattern.
regards
Basto
QuoteHi Michael
On the reel you started this thread off with, you said the tail plate is off a 155. Does that mean this tail plate pattern was never on the 180?
The reason I ask is that my 180 has this tail plate pattern.
regards
Basto
My tail plate di d come from a 155; but, that does not mean they are exclusive to the 155. The plates are interchangeable and I am sure that some left the factory swapped around.
Thanks for your reply Michael.
Basto
I have been intrigued by this little project since I first read about it in one of Mike C's post. Here my version featuring a new crank, star drag, handle lock nut and screw and a new spool compliments of the Shark Hunter. I still need to upgrade the drag and add a reel foot with rod clamps. This is before and after.
Lookin' good Maudu!
Cool, there are no rules when it comes to changing around the 180. Whatever is strong enough and comfortable for you is good. Neat Handle Mike!
I'm just wondering how strong the drags will be. I plan on spoiling it up with 30# braid and trolling in the gulf for kings and Bonita. I'll find out soon enough next time I get back down there.
QuoteI'm just wondering how strong the drags will be. I plan on spoiling it up with 30# braid and trolling in the gulf for kings and Bonita. I'll find out soon enough next time I get back down there.
I will be very interested in the results you have. I just gifted one of these to a friend of mine that fishes much more than I do. He has been bottom fishing with for about a week catching Blackfish (Tautog). The fish are not that big (3 to 5 pound) but the reel needs to be strong because you have to horse them out of the rock piles or you get snagged in the rocks. He plans on using it for Stripers next week. So far it has worked great.
Mine have steel gears and HT 100 drags. I am sure they can be upgraded more if you felt it was necessary.
Quote from: The Great Maudu on October 08, 2016, 04:42:56 AM
I'm just wondering how strong the drags will be.
If you put a fresh set of HT-100s in...and use 30lb. line...you should be right on target. The old drag formula says to set at 1/4th to 1/3rd breaking strength. That would be 7-10lbs...and fresh HT-100s should get you there. 8)
Quote from: mo65 on October 08, 2016, 05:04:32 PM
Quote from: The Great Maudu on October 08, 2016, 04:42:56 AM
I'm just wondering how strong the drags will be.
If you put a fresh set of HT-100s in...and use 30lb. line...you should be right on target. The old drag formula says to set at 1/4th to 1/3rd breaking strength. That would be 7-10lbs...and fresh HT-100s should get you there. 8)
I agree Mo!
With a couple additional upgrades, as a ss sleeve, maybe one piece frame ( not necessary ), steel gears, you could even push it a little more, I say 12 lb.
I've serviced a few for a guy up your way Mike, he does the same type of fishing you've mentioned, he and his buddies like to use the 155 on party boats.
As you know, the 155 is the same reel as the 180.
They absolutely love them, they say the reels feel extremely smooth and perfect for the job.
Sal
QuoteWith a couple additional upgrades, as a ss sleeve, maybe one piece frame ( not necessary ), steel gears, you could even push it a little more, I say 12 lb.
I've serviced a few for a guy up your way Mike, he does the same type of fishing you've mentioned, he and his buddies like to use the 155 on party boats.
As you know, the 155 is the same reel as the 180.
They absolutely love them, they say the reels feel extremely smooth and perfect for the job.
This or a 155 would be fine for anything caught bottom fishing on Party boats. Most fish are under 10 pounds. My friend will be using it for Stripers in the coming weeks. Here in the New York area Stripers come in the 30 pound range almost every trip and 50+ is not unheard of. So we will see how it stands up to bigger fish. I think the key is how you have to bring in the fish. If you have the space to play him, then the reel will be find, if space is limited and you want to get the fish in as soon as possible, that is where there may be a problem.
I have one set up for a Montauk Trip a few weeks ago where I would have tested it on bigger fish in deep water conditions; but, I hurt my knee and I cannot fish until I get it fixed. I has been a bad year for me; but, my doctor was able to buy a new car!
Quote from: Penn Chronology on October 08, 2016, 10:57:57 PM
QuoteWith a couple additional upgrades, as a ss sleeve, maybe one piece frame ( not necessary ), steel gears, you could even push it a little more, I say 12 lb.
I've serviced a few for a guy up your way Mike, he does the same type of fishing you've mentioned, he and his buddies like to use the 155 on party boats.
As you know, the 155 is the same reel as the 180.
They absolutely love them, they say the reels feel extremely smooth and perfect for the job.
This or a 155 would be fine for anything caught bottom fishing on Party boats. Most fish are under 10 pounds. My friend will be using it for Stripers in the coming weeks. Here in the New York area Stripers come in the 30 pound range almost every trip and 50+ is not unheard of. So we will see how it stands up to bigger fish. I think the key is how you have to bring in the fish. If you have the space to play him, then the reel will be find, if space is limited and you want to get the fish in as soon as possible, that is where there may be a problem.
I have one set up for a Montauk Trip a few weeks ago where I would have tested it on bigger fish in deep water conditions; but, I hurt my knee and I cannot fish until I get it fixed. I has been a bad year for me; but, my doctor was able to buy a new car!
Mike, I don't come no where close to some of the guys here, especially Lou, but I've caught some nice stripers in the past. Considering how I've caught some of them, your friend will do just fine with that reel.
Here is what the 209 could do:
http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=12247.msg119546#msg119546
The 209 has the same gears. It might be a small diameter on the main gear, but those are tough.
Quote from: Alto Mare on October 08, 2016, 11:31:23 PM
The 209 has the same gears. It might be a small diameter on the main gear, but those are tough.
I think a 5 stack kit for this gear would be great. Has Bryan ever pursued that? Many guys are putting together these hot 180s and Monofil 27s with aftermarket frames and steel gears, they can handle the load. 209s and Peerless 9s would be hot with a ss gear sleeve and 5 stack, just don't lock 'er down and twist the stand. 8)
Quote from: mo65 on October 09, 2016, 12:31:44 AM
Quote from: Alto Mare on October 08, 2016, 11:31:23 PM
The 209 has the same gears. It might be a small diameter on the main gear, but those are tough.
I think a 5 stack kit for this gear would be great. Has Bryan ever pursued that? Many guys are putting together these hot 180s and Monofil 27s with aftermarket frames and steel gears, they can handle the load. 209s and Peerless 9s would be hot with a ss gear sleeve and 5 stack, just don't lock 'er down and twist the stand. 8)
I asked Bryan in the very beginning, he didn't think there would be much interest.
I would personally love to get some. I made a couple for some friends, but it's not worth the work.
About the 9 and 109, I love both of those reels and have a few, but on those the upgrades are limited.
I don't believe the gears on those would hold up.
Here's my latest solution and mod ... a thumb stall. I trust my thumb!
Wow, a thumb stall!!! The essence of the 1920's! I love it!
Quote from: Alto Mare on October 09, 2016, 01:18:41 AM
About the 9 and 109, I love both of those reels and have a few, but on those the upgrades are limited.
I don't believe the gears on those would hold up.
You're going to have to elaborate on this Sal...and convince me before I bust a reel.:D Is it the pinion or something...because the main is about the same size as a #5-155. Uses same drag washers too. I need a hotrod 109 like I need a hole in the head...but sometimes ya just wanna do it. 8)
Quote from: mo65 on October 09, 2016, 02:04:04 PM
Quote from: Alto Mare on October 09, 2016, 01:18:41 AM
About the 9 and 109, I love both of those reels and have a few, but on those the upgrades are limited.
I don't believe the gears on those would hold up.
You're going to have to elaborate on this Sal...and convince me before I bust a reel.:D Is it the pinion or something...because the main is about the same size as a #5-155. Uses same drag washers too. I need a hotrod 109 like I need a hole in the head...but sometimes ya just wanna do it. 8)
Gear teeth Mo, the two I've mentioned have fine teeth, the rest have coarse.
Quote from: Alto Mare on October 09, 2016, 03:36:12 PM
Gear teeth Mo, the two I've mentioned have fine teeth, the rest have coarse.
Ahh...that would put a cog in the wheel. I looked at the gears side by side...and until now...had no clue there was so much difference. Thanks for the wake up call!
That still leaves the Baymasters, Beachmasters, Monofils, and 209s with room to bulk up...would love to see the 5 stack for them. 8)
Here's the little beast with its new 30-49 Rod stand and rod clamp. That beefed her up. I just waiting on the drag washers from Dawn and she'll be ready to go. Has anyone actually caught a fish on one of these? A report would be nice.
Quote from: The Great Maudu on October 21, 2016, 03:15:12 PM
Has anyone actually caught a fish on one of these? A report would be nice.
Heck yeah...I've caught lots of fish on my 180...but none really big enough to test it. I bet some folks have lunker tales to share. 8)
Quote. Has anyone actually caught a fish on one of these? A report would be nice.
I have made it a point to give a couple of these to friends of mine that fish much more than I do for testing. I got back one photo and report from my friend that goes by the Facebook name Backwater Baits. He makes custom Jigs for New York bottom fishing.
Anyways, he has been using the little 180 for Blackfishing (tautog) and Striped Bass fishing. The countless blackfish have been up about four pounds. He used it the other day on a clam chumming Striped Bass day and he had over 25 bass averaging from 18 to 30 inches. So far he loves the reel and has said it has operated flawlessly. No trophy's yet; but, he feels this 180 could easily handle any Striper up 50 pounds. Over 100 fish hve been caught with he reel; but, like I said, no real big guys yet. But, the confidence in the reel is there.
(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo244/m3040c/Fishing%20Pictures%20and%20Places/Doms%20little%20bass%20with%20my%20Penn%20180%20845%20x%20475_zpspvx6hxuy.jpg)
This fish is about 18" and in New York we call this size a ""Little"" or ""Schoolie"'.
My 180 started out as a 185 I bought at Herman Brooks at Cottman & Roosevelt Blvd in the late 60's at their parking sale for $4. Got it home, opps no star drag. Out to the Plenn plant with the parts catalog in hand. Ordered the parts to convert it to a 180 & put it together at the parts widow. I my go to reel for years for back bay fishing around Herford inlet. I was 17 years old at the time. Changed the spool to an aluminum one when they became available. Spooled it with 20 lb Dacron.
QuoteMy 180 started out as a 185 I bought at Herman Brooks at Cottman & Roosevelt Blvd in the late 60's at their parking sale for $4. Got it home, opps no star drag. Out to the Plenn plant with the parts catalog in hand. Ordered the parts to convert it to a 180 & put it together at the parts widow. I my go to reel for years for back bay fishing around Herford inlet. I was 17 years old at the time. Changed the spool to an aluminum one when they became available. Spooled it with 20 lb Dacron.
If you would want to use the reel for larger game fish, you can upgrade what you have. Go to a Penn Senator 2/0 power handle, a Long Beach 60 star wheel and a Penn 49 stand with clamp. Internally make sure the gears are steel, upgrade to HT 100 or better drags. This is basic beginning of now having a reel designed for backwater bay fishing; but, now ready for larger fish using braided lines. The aluminum spool upgrade you have already done is a perfect improvement.
Great under appreciated reel!
I have other Penns for the heavier fishing, but have more fun just drifting around in the back of Stone Harbor with the 180 or 712.
Quotehave other Penns for the heavier fishing, but have more I just drifting around in the back of Stone Harbor with the 180 or 712.
Where is Stone Harbor?
Stone Harbor is in Cape May County NJ south of Atlantic City
George
A few years ago you one of my favorite tackle stores moved down there Peace Token Tackle.
We have family around Ocean City area.
Welcome Aboard
Mike
Smuggler's Cove on 83rd St in Stone Harbor works for me.
I have been thinking about a reel for 15lb mono for light fishing and my 180 is almost mint and an early model, so I did not want to fish it.
I have a 185 (no drag) and a 155 I was not using. The penny dropped!
I took the head plate off the 155 and screwed it to the 185. Light, plastic spool...easy to cast. Instant 180.
(http://i1286.photobucket.com/albums/a601/george8322/P1040585_zpsvjpttgkw.jpg)
Seems perfect for a 15# mono reel.
Ron
Ok so the bars are what width on this little dude?
Thanks!
Andy
I'm not certain of the measurement, but they are the same as the 100, 146, 501, 349 etc.
Ron
Quote from: noyb72 on November 28, 2016, 02:36:28 AM
I'm not certain of the measurement, but they are the same as the 100, 146, 501, 349 etc.
Ron
That`s right Ron. ...or 180 or 110. I had a spare 30/49 stand also that I used. A bit stronger than the 185 stand.
Basto
Great idea Basto! Now you have nice little reel to fish with very little invested. Customizing options for this size reel are almost endless, lots of spool types, handles, and stands. 8)
Yes Mo. The 155 just had a bit too much spool for my needs and you can find both 185 and 155 quite cheap.
cheers
Basto