Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Conventional and Bait Casting Reel Rebuild Tutorials and Questions => Penn Senator Tutorials and Questions => Topic started by: Flsharker on May 22, 2020, 03:37:15 AM

Title: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Flsharker on May 22, 2020, 03:37:15 AM
I recently got a penn senator 10/0 which I want to use for land based shark fishing. I was wondering what I could do to make it better suited for this role. I'd like to increase the drag, I know there is a drag insert but I can't seem to find one. I know that increasing the drag would need the stainless dog and gear sleeve. I'd appreciate any input y'all have.
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: oc1 on May 22, 2020, 06:40:28 AM
Consider having a strong person or small car try to pull you off your feet with the line when the drag is buttoned down.  Hold the rod up like you're fishing a fish.  You might find that you need a smoother drag, but not necessarily a stronger drag.
-steve
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2020, 08:44:03 AM
Basic 5 Stack Carbon Fiber upgrade and stainless sleeve is all you need.
Buttoned down, that is 30 pounds. That is enough to bring in some big ones.
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Alto Mare on May 22, 2020, 11:36:36 AM
Hello Fisharker.
The 116A is one of my favorite.
Inserts from motive fabrications are nice and I believe it is an excellent upgrade for drags, but I only like them up to the 9/0.

I want to add that if you do have the thick 5 washers, you will need to replace them.
Here is the set I recommend, it should reel anything in:
https://www.mysticparts.com/PennParts/Parts/6-116SP.aspx
As Shark Hunter has mentioned, a stainless steel sleeve is a good choice, along with a better handle.
Another thing I would do is to install a second dog.
Shark Hunter could probably get that done for you, unless he's busy.
Of course you could probably do it yourself as well, there are some tutorials by tge Senator section that should help.
Good luck!

Sal
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Flsharker on May 22, 2020, 04:24:04 PM
I was hoping to increase drag to reduce fight times with sharks to improve their survival rate. Also maybe because I want revenge on whatever almost spooled me on my 9/0 last time. The asbestos washers give me 30 pounds right now, which I handle pretty easy.
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Alto Mare on May 22, 2020, 04:28:50 PM
Quote from: Flsharker on May 22, 2020, 04:24:04 PM
I was hoping to increase drag to reduce fight times with sharks to improve their survival rate. Also maybe because I want revenge on whatever almost spooled me on my 9/0 last time. The asbestos washers give me 30 pounds right now, which I handle pretty easy.
You are increasing it if you go with the kit I've recommended.
You are going from 5 washers to 7 washers, this will give you more drag and smoothness.
The thick washers you have now toss them.

Sal
Title: Re: Penn 116a sharkin upgrades?
Post by: Flsharker on May 22, 2020, 04:35:40 PM
Alright sounds like I'm getting a new drag stack and gear sleeve, what's the advantage of double dogging? Sorry for all the questions, thanks y'all.