The early 60's were a time of innovation and transition for Surf-Anglers.
Lots of guys used Squidders, Surf-Masters, LB's, and other conventional brands.
However, the horizon was becoming filled with Spinning Reels —-
After studying the products offered by others such as DQ, Langley, and others —- after careful design and attention to quality and strength needed for a HD surf reel —- Penn came out with their first Spinfisher.
It was a battle tank —- in every regard — and it still is.
The 700 Spinfisher. 22 ounces, 1:3.8, metal spool, worm drive, many SS parts, simple, tough, and durable.
Got this old second generation 700 across the bench this morning. Rusty guts, 50 year old grease, crud, stiff, many functions not working.
Good clean up, burnished all friction parts, new line guide, main bearing, a few minor wear parts replaced with new, new drags, new bail spring, etc.
It functions so well —- I would expect it to last another 50 years of surf fishing with just a quick service every couple of years.
These 700-704 reels are not expensive —- and a true pleasure to fish.
Best, Fred
Fantastic Job, Master at work.
I love seeing these old reels being reinvented and that reel does look set for another 50 years.
I was only looking at a 700 this morning, had a broken reel seat unfortunately, so I passed, in hope one more structurally sound will appear...
Luv your work Fred.
Col
Great work on that ol' Greenie Fred! :fish