Conventional Reel Surf Casting with Chris Gallagher

Learn the basics of surf casting a conventional reel with pompano fishing expert Chris Gallagher.
*These paid links to Amazon pay me a very small percentage if you use them, without raising the cost of the product. This helps support the costs of making the Videos. Thank You
Buy my Pompano Rig maker Kit on Ebay and make Rigs for as little as 81 cents!Your Rigs will be Stronger, have Better Hooks, Line and put ANY Color Float or Bead you want!
Just search for Pompano Brownie on Ebay!
- Pompano Fishing Gear Below -
Okuma Longitude Surf Rods amzn.to/3sWXOyk
(Note * Cast - means Conventional Reel / Spin means Spinning Reel - Choose Heavy 20/40lb both)
Rhino Rack Ski Carrier Surf Rod Car Carrier - amzn.to/3F0vQV2
Penn Squall II 15 Conventional Reel (Chris Gallagher's Model) - amzn.to/3jLiJgw
( Choose SQLII15SDCS for the Casting Special version only 10.00 more)
Penn Spinfisher VI 7500LC (Choose Long Cast Option) the Spinning reel I use - amzn.to/2FIEr62
( Largest is 7500LC 12-13ft rods, 6500LC 10 to 11ft rods , 5500LC 9 to 10ft rods.
8mm Glass Facetted Red Beads - amzn.to/3hwtaT9
Glow in the dark beads - amzn.to/3iQT85s
#2 88lb Black Barrel Swivel amzn.to/2Fn5GD9
50lb Black Duo Lock Snaps amzn.to/2Rtc3qP
Sufix Tritanium Plus 20lb Chartreuse for spinning reels amzn.to/3VPK4RG
Sufix Tritanium Plus 50lb Clear for Rigs or shock leader amzn.to/3PhFI39
Sufix Tritanium Plus 40lb Clear for Rigs or shock leader- amzn.to/2E3kBBH
Sufix Tritanium plus 14lb Sufix Tritanium Plus for conventional reels amzn.to/3mr2fM4
Momoi Diamond Presentation Fluorocarbon - 40lb. for Fluro rigs amzn.to/3iwXm1K
Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon - 40lb for Fluro rigs amzn.to/3rzdkgO
Koehler Industries Clinch Knot Tool amzn.to/2ImsLqP
Diamond Round Colored Toothpicks for Pompano Rigs - amzn.to/3Yd50DD
Plain Round Toothpicks for Pompano Rigs -amzn.to/3JJY222
Stainless Diagonal Cutter to remove Hooks amzn.to/2lbVnqU
Large Nail Clippers for clipping Monofilament and Braid line amzn.to/3VIBK6a
Lanyards for your Nail Clippers amzn.to/2ljAV7K
Aluminum Fishing Pliers with Sheath and Lanyard amzn.to/2lJcv7M
Floats - Make Your own for Pennies. • Pompano Rig Floats
Large Floats - Make Your own for Pennies. • Big Pompano Rig Floats
Hooks - Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L197 Circle Sea Offset 2/0 Hooks - www.tackledirect.com/eagle-cl...
*Tip - Get a Florida Commercial Fishing License for 50.00 if you are a Florida Resident, and you will find that many of the fish houses sell circle L197 2/0 hooks at a deep discount. Plus you can sell your fish to help pay for your gear. Most Fish houses supply Ice for free, so it's worth the 50.00 annual cost!
- Sinker Making Gear Below -
Lead Melting Pot is a "Lee Magnum Melter" amzn.to/3hyv85p
3" "Do-It "Cast Iron Ladle amzn.to/3myPtLQ
Pliers are Channelock E358 8" HIGH LEVERAGE END CUTTING PLIERS amzn.to/2H2T2cS
DOIT 5, 6 ounce Storm Sinker Mold amzn.to/48D8SlO
DOIT 2, 3, 4 ounce Storm Sinker Mold amzn.to/41D9i9L
DOIT #2 Brass wire Eyes amzn.to/32vvky4
-Trap Shooting Targets Below -
Laser Birds Targets are made for the purpose of Trap Shooting Practice at Home.
They are on Ebay. Just search for “Laser Birds Targets”
To learn more about Trap Shooting Practice at Home watch my KZbin Video. (Link Below)
• Trap Shooting Practice...

[@capeheartriz]

well done! PB.!..nice to finally meet you on the beach the other day.....Been using the smaller squall 12's since 2013....They get the job done....Yep...there is a learning curve when making the switch.....I always go to the county park to practice before the winter fishing season starts.....Can you get more distance with conventionals .....I'm still not sure after years of only using them....Still, I would never go back.....They are very light weight, and with the graphite rods we have today..its easy on the shoulders...Bird nests are common for everybody that uses them and pushes for distance.....I've learned a few tricks about using these things over the years....

[@PompanoBrownie]

Cape! It was great seeing you on the beach! Maybe we need a Cast Off competition next.. Spinners against the Cons! LOL

[@capeheartriz]

@@PompanoBrownie hahaha...yeah!......

[@BoandBeceadventures]

Pompano Brownie that’s a good idea for real where you guys at?

[@leorosales4907]

Great camara I loved this video thank you 🙏

[@TheEspinal278]

you forgot to mention one of the most important thing about conventional casting. the perfect KNOT to attach the shock leader with the main line to fly through those guides without problem.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Lee, we use the Blood Knot Here’s a link to a Video we made on tying one. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3Tbn6Z9rq1krpo

[@TheEspinal278]

I use the upright knot to attach 15lb to 60lb shock leader. My comment was more for beginners who want to switch from spinning to conventional. You must find the knot that works for you because if that knot hit your guide while casting, your line will snap and cause an ugly birds nest.p

[@57koop]

Thanks I have been thinking about trying conventional this video has great info!

[@dougiemac8417]

Awesome tips Chris!! Thank you.

[@hotchihuahua1546]

I have not owned a conventional reel in 50 years , I enjoyed your video and learned more than I knew then , I will be in the market for one soon and found this information useful , thanks !

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Hot, I’ve watched Chris cast for years and his delivery is very smooth.. that helps prevent backlash too.

[@KnightRacing528]

this was super helpful, thank you guys!!

[@mathew00]

That idea with the individual bags is great. I've been making up several high low rigs. Going to do that from now on.

[@TheAssaultcraft]

Great stuff for the ones wanting to use these reels..

[@Greenwashedhipppie]

Interesting stuff. I store my leaders ready to rock on about 7 inches of pool noodle. I put the sinker in the hole and wrap the rest around the noodle and dig the hooks in. One leader on each end.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Joe, love pool noodle idea!

[@ShreadsEBS]

Thanks Chris! Very helpful

[@hypegamergig1785]

Gents, many thanks!

[@jenbilbrey1089]

One of the nicest videos I've seen. Thanks a lot thanks to Chris as well. And keep putting out great content

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Jen! Chris made it happen! He is a good teacher with real world experience.

[@carolinasurfcastersassociation]

Fully endorse this... all great, accurate info. on conventionals and casting them.

[@surfrookie1]

Thanks for a very informative and down to earth video. Catch em up guys!

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Surfrookie1, Cris really is a great angler and instructor!

[@watchyourlip3209]

Great video bud! I’m all about the conventional!!!!!

[@wrdj3094]

Best conventional reel tutorial I've found. Thank you for making a video with Chris!

[@PompanoBrownie]

wrdj, you are welcome! Chris is a real Pro and we had a ball making it!

[@vaginal-sand-castle]

Got a vintage Abu Garcia ambasseduer 7000 on a Shimano Speedmaster 8-12kg 2pc rod today , my first overhead surf casting setup , will be an interesting learning curve

[@leschab]

I "mastered" the art of casting from shore during this year's spring Striper run up the Hudson River, using a Penn Squall 12 and 12' Diawa rod, thanks to paying attention to expert Chris's and John Holden''s advice and techniques . Only one overun the entire season and that was because I didn't compensate for a stiff headwind with the magnets. Many thanks and respect, my friend.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Leschab, Chris is definitely a Master of his Craft. Thank You

[@mackeynite]

Loved this tutorial,you all convinced me to go purchase one,thx

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thank Mackey! Here are some links to the reel and fishing lines used - Sufix Tritanium plus 14lb test amzn.to/3mr2fM4 Momoi Diamond Presentation Fluorocarbon - 40lb.amzn.to/3iwXm1K Sufix Tritanium Plus 40lb - amzn.to/2E3kBBH Penn Squall 15 Link - amzn.to/2ZDYoSh ( Make sure to pick the 15)

[@methamphetamemes]

Just picked up a penn fathom 2 60ld2 today cant wait to hook up on some tarpon

[@drkrm]

I still run Squidder and Jigmasters with Newell aluminum spools. The aluminum spools spin faster and will give you another 25 yards on the cast. But, if you ever get a backlash on one of those spools, you know you’ve had one. After a while, you can get real good at getting a backlash out without cutting. BTW, a good squirt on Reel Magic line dressing helps prevent backlashes.

[@catboyzee]

I'm a longtime Cali resident. Last year I got back into freshwater fishing for the first time in almost 20 years, and the bug hit me hard. Unfortunately due the extended drought & the COVID pandemic, most Cali freshwater fisheries are at extremely low water levels and overly pressured. Thus I've been seriously about getting into surf fishing, despite my apprehensions over possibly catching something that could potentially eat me...LMBO! I have watched several surf fishing YT videos, but none have mentioned using a shock leader until now. Thank you for posting, good info.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Glad to help Infi.. it’s like anything in life, at first you suck at it….And then you get better.

[@baguih007]

Come here to see the casting, learn a lot of other useful stuff. Good job!

[@melodyburgess561]

Extremely helpful! Thank you for this. I now feel informed enough to give this a try with my new Akios!

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Melody!

[@rickysmith2248]

I have the Penn squall 15 reel and I just learned from this video how to use it properly thank you very much

[@PompanoBrownie]

Glad we helped you Ricky!

[@chepachii]

This is an absolutely fantastic video and a must watch for anyone aspiring to use a multiplier. Kudos to you sir.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thank you James! Chris is a good teacher with much knowledge.

[@montserratcocoafarmers7575]

Real helpful video esecially since I have an ocean city reel thats missing the line spreader

[@johnnymossville]

recently bought one for surf and pier fishing, mostly for the challenge of using one. Excellent tutorial, thank you.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Johnny!

[@curtisblair7618]

Great video, love my convental reels. 👍

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Curt! I’m ready to take the plunge!

[@bloodybrit127]

Thank you.

[@juanbarba9372]

Great video thank you

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Juan!

[@koap273]

In Hawaii, Ulua fisherman keep our thumbs lightly on the line as it’s spooling out and use our thumbs for control. We have a squirt bottle handy and always apply a heavy amount of water on the reel right before we cast.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks KoA! That sounds really interesting and I wish I could witness it!

[@floridaexpat6624]

Correction. The #209 was the levelwind only model, the #9 came with and without. I remember having a levelwind #9 as a kid. Had it stolen from me at the Sunny Isle Pier back in 76. Still own one with no levelwind though.

[@floridaexpat6624]

Super video. I love this modern gear. When I came up squidders, jigmasters, 2/0s, 3/0s and even #9s(with the levelwind removed) were the standard and believe me you needed an educatd thumb with calluses to avoid birds nests. No adjustable magnets back then.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Florida, that’s old school.. gotta love it!

[@johnchrenenko-ww8cs]

Very helpful.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thank You John

[@murderglassestv3563]

Very good video. I go by pretty much the same methods fishing in the big bend area of FL. The one difference I saw is I do put the hooks on my pre-made rigs (also stored in ziplocs lol), simply because it's a pain in the butt sometimes trying to thread a doubled over section of 40lb fluoro through the eye of my hooks while on the beach. We have a lot of sharks that will cruise through when targeting other species. Fell victim too many times to bonnetheads, sharpnose, and blacktips slicing through lighter mono's.

[@PompanoBrownie]

I’m with you on heavy line. I use 50lb mono for my rigs. It can take a lickin from blues and keep on tickin.

[@coleyoung280]

Thanks for this video, I was considering buying one... From the same store location actually 👍 now I'm convinced this is the setup I'm looking for!

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Cole! I’m glad it helped you! Now go catch some Pomps!

[@capeheartriz]

@@PompanoBrownie weeds!...we can't get a break

[@PompanoBrownie]

Cape, I remember one time I just kept heading north trying to find clean water.. I ended up in Sebastian! Lol

[@capeheartriz]

@@PompanoBrownie yep!...done that also. A number of times

[@Dreancaidi]

Great video.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thank You Ronan !

[@kiacarens]

Great video PB. Great choice. This is my top top most favorite reel. Proper setting you can go 100 plus yards out. Great reel by PENN.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Cyrus! Chris is a great instructor.

[@gaffster787]

Great Video !!! I fish a Penn 525 Mag off the Space Coast and do a lot of the same things. That extra 10 yards helps on some days, but more often that not you need to be careful to not overcast past the trough, LOL.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Gaffster! You must have a great view of those SpaceX rockets going up! 🚀

[@kathingbalap]

Nice information...

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Dan!

[@fredericksolo1873]

Great video!! I’m currently learning how to fish with a conventional reel called eagle claw 7000 I’m running 15lb mainline with 40lb leader and tying it with an Albright knot unfortunately no mags on these old reels so I’ve had many sessions untying birds nests 😂 eventually would get my hands on the Penn at some stage 😍😍

[@PompanoBrownie]

Fred, treat yourself to the Penn. You’ve got a birthday coming up.. Lol

[@FHG1st]

I was introduced to surf fishing by a friend, using the Penn500. I now own 2 x Penn 500's and 1 x Penn 501. The reels you show in the vids, cost a large sum of money in S. Africa. All my Penny's have cost me less than R500.. All have been 2nd hand or more. The aluminum spool is the best.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thank you for that info! What is your favorite fish to catch for eating in S.Africa?

[@FHG1st]

@@PompanoBrownie usually we catch Kable'joe. Aka cob. Belmont. Galjoen. Black tail. Steenbras. It usually depends on what's swimming near shoreline. Personally my fav is cob. So far all my catches have been with a Penn 500.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Wow! Those Kob look like they can get Big! bigfishesoftheworld.blogspot.com/2013/01/kob-argyrosomus-hololepidotus.html?m=1

[@FHG1st]

@@PompanoBrownie oh how I wish I could catch one that size. That would be a dream come true😍

[@defmud80]

I use braid as my mainline. When I start my day I give it a short cast with just a weight to get some line off and wet and wind it in and then send it with my rig. You can even pour some water (bottled) over the spool after the short cast to get more of the spool wet. Wind it on nice and tight and it cast like a dream. I do use a leader short rod length leader attached with an fg of 40lb floro then the rig.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks for the Braid tips DefMud! I’m a little too cheap to spring for the Braid and your insight is Appreciated!

[@outdooradventures6403]

Good job with the vid.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thanks Adi, we had fun making it and I hope we have helped some fisherman.

[@kerryfoster1]

The 'Clicker' I use against a light drag when beach fishing for fish over 4 lbs. You can't watch the rod all the time and fish can easily pull a rod into the water. Turn away and you have an audible bite indicator. I've had the rod flat on the beach and line clicking out several times with very fast bites....

[@PompanoBrownie]

Great advice Kerry! I always set my drag light enough so Mr. Shark cannot take a 500.00 Rod/Reel setup to Davey Jones Locker.

[@albundy8417]

What the hell do you mean you hardly ever use a clicker ?? One of the bigger complaints Hatteras spikers have with the Seigler (and other reels) is you can't hear the clicker over the wind and surf !!

[@alancody5742]

Awesome video..that's how we do it in Hawaii..we call it bait casting..

[@TimSmith-ec2rn]

Been using a Penn 525 Mag for years. I do love that reel, have been able to hit around 150 yards with no wind. I would love to try the new Penn Squall to see if is a better reel.

[@PompanoBrownie]

The Squall has better magnet controls that don’t move on their own compared to the older mag 525’s

[@kf8575]

These reels (compared to the original penn 525's) are absolute crap. Same as the Abu 6500 and 7000 reels (also manufactured in China by "Pure Fishing") which are also very poor quality in comparison. Either look for an Akios (manufactured by "Omoto" the same people in Taiwan that made the reels for Abu before Pure Fishing were involved), or look into a Penn Fathom (also made OUTSIDE of China).

[@nodoubt46able]

what a shame.....your right.....@@kf8575

[@johnmartin3486]

Having just bought a new drag reel today I'm glad I found this post. The last time I used one was 35 years ago and I got the mother of a birds nest. I was only a young kid and never used it again. I'm 52 now and really liking forward to getting to grips with it armed with the info from this post Many thanks

[@Sagittarius-88]

A lot of this comes down to the type of surf fishing you do. If your reel going to get dunked or habitually splashed, a conventional reel probably isn't for you. Forget about heavy sand exposure. Van Staals, they are not. That being said, they are damn fun to cast, and in my opinion, provide much greater control and feel over your lure/bait. Heaving 8 ounces on a spinner? Possible, yes. Easier on a conventional set up? Definitely. No doubt there's a learning curve. Overruns can be frustrating. If you're using braided line, keep some crochet hooks handy, particularly if you're new to casting conventionals. When I first started with conventionals, I found myself questioning my decision making process. Four letter words were plentiful. No regrets at this point, though. Slow day on the surf? Good time to get your practice in, which is exactly what I did. If you're new to conventional reels, there's no harm in gathering as much as information as you can regarding casting. But...you gotta get out there and practice. Once you get over the learning curve, you'll come to the same conclusion many conventional casters have......"damn these reels are fun!".

[@johnnycortez46]

We run the squall 15 casting special with knob control. We run strait 50lb braid. No mono topshot. Sometimes we run shock leaders depending on near by structure. We use 10ft med/heavy rods like the oceanmaster. That's all done here in the surf .(Gulf of Mexico)

[@PompanoBrownie]

Sounds like a nice setup Johnny!

[@celticwarrior777]

very helpful thanks im about ready to start fishing. so you lie the shockleader line on the sand full length ready? i would have prob not layed it flat length wise first

[@PompanoBrownie]

Celtie, I am about 6 foot tall. What I do is take my shock leader right off the spool in a bucket and stretch my arms out five times to give myself an approximate 28 to 30 foot shock leader. This allows me to cut some off if I run into a school of bluefish. There would be no need to lay it on the Sand first to measure it. I like to keep it simple and keep it fun!

[@josephnolasco2914]

Great video! First time surf casting and I am using the video to get all my gear. What brand lb test light line is Chris G using?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Joe. Chris and I both like the Sufix Tritanium plus. 20lb for spinner reels and 15lb for conventional reels. 40 to 50lb for the shock leader.

[@michaelhodgson525]

Have you tried the Fg knot, doesn't leave a bulky knot. Never had one fail yet.

[@braddahkuponz]

I use the squall 15 too on my ugly stick 12ft conventional pole. I have it spooled with 60lb braid but every now and then add a 60lb to 80lb mono shock leader. I live in Hawai'i so I have the 60lb braid as my main just in case there was the chance a big o'io(bonefish) or small ulua(giant trevally) came and took my bait on this small reel. Been casting a wonder on the ugly stick. My rig is a three way swivel, maybe a 10in 60-80lb test hook line, ~2ft 25lb test lead line. For sand, the opposite, long hook line, short lead line. Just the standard dunking rigs

[@PompanoBrownie]

Kupono, I Googled the Ulua fish and they can be huge! Thanks for the info!

[@braddahkuponz]

@@PompanoBrownie Uluas rarely come that close to shore where I can get them with the squall, plus the rocky and sandy shorelines I fosh from don't have a dramatic dropoff, but I got huge strikes that were probably ulua, sadly none hooked up. I have an Tica ulua pole just for that. I rig that with a Daiwa Saltist BG 50H or a Penn Senator wide spool 4/0 for casting 60lb test line and 7-10oz lead. I have yet to get my ulua by casting still. On this pole I only got bait stealers (Moray eels, pufferfish) I also use a normal Penn Senator 4/0 filled with 60lb braid in case I want to have a bait swam out. If I am casting with this pole, I usually like to pick places I know have a dropoff that I can cast to since I spearfish as well and know these spots. Most of um would be like rocky cliffs but it gets a little dangerous as I primarily go at night so a headlamp is necessary. For bait, I like to live bait fish or use dead bait such as ika(japanese for squid) and tako(japanese for octopus, he'e in Hawaiian).

[@redabagui]

Hi guys, thanks for your video. Really informative, I appreciate. I want to ask you , it's possible do it in the middle of the darkness night?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Rene, I think you would probably get birds nests because you wouldn’t be able to see the sinker hit the ocean and stop the spool.

[@jimandrews9160]

I've been using the squall 15. Never thought about using the shock leader. Good tip! What length of rod do you use? Also, I've been making my own double rigs for pompano with 20 lb flourocarbon. Do you notice any difference in using a heavier line for your rig as far as getting bites?

[@chrisnitup]

My Rods are about 13.5' as far as the rigs, due to the amount of torque on the flouro and it being almost no stretch I use 40lb to make my rigs, helps keep your hooks out to the sides as well rather than twisting

[@TheIconicFisherman]

I use suffix Superior mono as my main line and then suffix Superior mono leader the difference is I use a 15 lb test main line and a 30 lb test shock leader because I primarily fish for catfish in freshwater.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Icon, that sounds like a great set up to me. I love the suffix line of mono. It is nice and limp and works great for the shock leaders as well. You’d be amazed at how many people don’t use shock leaders and wonder why their sinkers are going into orbit.

[@TheIconicFisherman]

@@PompanoBrownie oh yeah, I primarily fish rivers with heavy heavy current like the Mississippi and the Missouri and I have to use at least a 2 oz weight to keep my bait at the bottom. And sometimes even more, then on top of that there's so much abrasive crap on the bottom that I would break off if I didn't have a shock leader. But I do have family in California and I do surf fishing when I visit my uncle there. And what I can tell you is rivers are a lot like the ocean because halfway through the day. There is a high tide just like there is in the ocean and it moves your rig around like crazy if you don't use a lot of weight.

[@PompanoBrownie]

@@TheIconicFisherman i hear ya. Sometimes I had to hurl a 6 ounce sinker to keep the bottom when the surf is rough but the fish are hungry.

[@benstolen2060]

..and what is the preferred mono to leader knot? FG, GT, Albright Special, ect? I’m enjoying the learning curve at OC as we speak. No fish but still having fun practicing. 😁👍

[@PompanoBrownie]

Ben, Both Chris and I prefer the blood knot. He uses a conventional real so he is going with 40 pound test shock leader and I use a spinner reel so I go with 50 pound. Here’s a link I did on creating the blood not for your shock later. Thanks for visiting our channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3Tbn6Z9rq1krpo

[@besaun426]

Ben Stolen Lot of drum fishermen on OBX use uniknot.....great all round knot. Also use Albright knot at terminal swivel. Use spelled circle hooks with fish finder so fish can’t feel the weight.

[@besaun426]

Ben Stolen damn spell check.....meant to say “snelled” knot on circle hook

[@robertveith2571]

I would like to know how to know how to cast one of them I like to use one for musky fishing what is the shortest rod you can on one of them .?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Bob, the shortest surf rod I would use would be a 12 foot rod. Chris Gallagher‘s rods are 13‘6“. The longer the rod, the farther you can cast. Sometimes that extra 15 yards makes the difference to get past a sandbar where they are hanging.

[@whitepeachasmr]

I just bought me one something exact but mines was 200$ for the reel and rod combo of peen not a bad deal tbh can’t wait to try it out this weekend!

[@PompanoBrownie]

That’s a good price Marc! Use 20lb mono line and a 40lb mono shock leader. I like the Sufix Tritanium Plus.

[@whitepeachasmr]

Pompano Brownie is it available at bass pro ? Because I’m going out today to fish ! And stay over the weekend to get some fishing done with the family

[@PompanoBrownie]

Marc, I order through Amazon, EBay .

[@sharablellama4476]

I just found your channel and sub but do you have any tips on casting with braid

[@PompanoBrownie]

Llama, I’ve never been a big fan of braid on the beach. In my opinion it has low abrasion resistance and if you accidentally get a loop around your top eyelet it will rip it off the rod or break the line. Plus.. it’s expensive.

[@jeffreybabino8161]

Don't be intimidated it's casting technique and knowledge and a lot of practice 🐟

[@MatthewBorkoski]

great video, do you use braid or mono?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Sufix tritanium plus mono 20lb for spinners 14lb for conventional

[@robertveith2571]

When you catch a fish do you still work your thumb back and forth on the line as you reel in the fish ?????

[@PompanoBrownie]

Bob, yes you do.. that way it’s a level spool at all times. With some practice you will do it subconsciously with a few glances while reeling. Pay attention to that pompano when it to gets close to the big surf right near shore, and make sure you back up quickly while really quickly or it will create slack in the line and you will lose that Pompano.

[@paulfityo1]

I Fish a lot at night . how do you prevent backlash when the weight hits the water if you cant see it ?

[@chrisnitup]

That's definitely tough, I think if you can enough it is like muscle memory, because when I cast first thing in the AM in the dark it is like I just stop either just before it hits or I have learned to barely slow it down to a stop, but the more practice casts you will learn a time frame without even knowing it

[@Joe-bh4vz]

I love spinning tackle. But I hate that you can’t really effectively cast a shock leader with it. I use 30 pound braid main line with spinners, which does not need a shock leader, as it’s actually about 60 pound absolute strength. I tie a short loop Bimini twist then a double Palomar knot to a solid ring, then a 50 pound split ring to the swivel on the dropper rig.

[@kf8575]

Upgrade from that, to a Penn Fathom 15 and you wont regret it. Much much higher quality reel which if looked after will last for decades.

[@nodoubt46able]

stupid price though

[@Bleemus]

Nice vid! What knot does Chris use from his 12lb to the 40lb shock leader?

[@PompanoBrownie]

KETH, we use the Blood Knot kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3Tbn6Z9rq1krpo

[@Bleemus]

@@PompanoBrownie Thank you!

[@TradIrishHarper]

Question: when cast with let’s say a 3oz weight how to you thumb brake without burning your thumb?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Mike, the only time you should be applying the brake is when the sinker hits the ocean. You will apply enough pressure to stop the spool. It won’t matter if it’s a 3 ounce or a 5 ounce sinker, it won’t burn your thumb. Just apply it quick and hard enough to stop the spool. Any other thumb breaking will cause a birds nest during the cast.

[@stephen579]

I get confused by your calling it a conventional reel, In the UK they are Multipliers or fixed spool reels

[@PompanoBrownie]

Stephen, we Americans can be a confusing bunch. 😆

[@robert039]

What do you think about reels with level winders? Won’t get the same amount of distance as one without ?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Rob, the Level winders are the first thing the old-timers take off when they want more distance. So yes, to answer your question the level winder will suffer a shorter cast.

[@robert039]

@@PompanoBrownie Gotchya. Thanks. Enjoyed your video. I’ll take mine off and start practicing at my local park for some distance! Thanks for the response

[@freddyferguson7763]

I just order one for Muskie fishing in Minnesota

[@PompanoBrownie]

Good Luck Freddy! Better stock up on steel leaders!

[@freddyferguson7763]

@@PompanoBrownie I use 50 pound braid with 100 pound floral leader. I don’t like steel because I think the “fish” can see it. The water up in Minnesota is crystal clear

[@IlMangustaKMRUTEAM]

This Is literally my reel. In Europe they are called Penn 525 Mag 2

[@PompanoBrownie]

Take good care of it and rinse after every use. Never wade into deeper water to try and cast farther. You take the chance of a rogue wave and saltwater damage.

[@catweazle9525]

What is Chris talking about with the rods he uses. Rods have a backbone so are not really usable for fixed spool and multpliers. also guide placement will be wrong?

[@chrisnitup]

New ones by Carolina do not follow this, new technology, yes the one in the video has a spine but the new models they make go both ways

[@johngarcia6822]

I can't find that reel model with the gold. I can only find it with lever drag.

[@PompanoBrownie]

John, the Squall Reel has been replaced with the Squall II. It has less gold trim on it. Here's more info for you. Penn Squall II 15 Conventional Reel (Chris Gallagher's Model) - amzn.to/3jLiJgw ( Choose SQLII15SDCS for the Casting Special version only 10.00 more)

[@braydenwill58]

Do they make the squall in a 20 and does it have a better football shaped handle on it?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Brayden, they make a 25 but it's heavy.. Chris perfers the Squall 15. Here's a chart showing some breakdowns. www.tackledirect.com/penn-squall-star-drag-reels.html The Penn website isn't very intuitive so I gave you this link from Tackledirect.com.

[@braydenwill58]

@@PompanoBrownie Today is the day that I finally bought my first casting rod. I bought a penn squall 15 casting combo with a 10 foot squall rod and I just wanted to thank you for leading me to the right one. I’ve already used it at the beach and have caught tons of sharks and pufferfish. I spooled it with 20 pound suffix tritanium line and it has done great with no backlash. Thanks again!

[@PompanoBrownie]

@@braydenwill58, you won’t regret it! Good luck fishing!

[@ShadowOfDeadRhodes21]

I had a Berkeley Big Game 6'6 conventional rod and reel.. problem that I always had with the reel itself was that the line in the reel would get loose and often times would tangle and knot up.. which has never happened with any other type of reel I've owned. I tried fixing and working with the drag on the real itself but it had the same problem. Do conventional reels get loose and tangled up more than close and open face reels?

[@jonwyatt262]

Always put your thumb on spool before putting reel into freespool. Get thumb back on spool when lure is close to hitting water.

[@perigee17]

Does wind level have huge impact on casting distance ? Thx in advance

[@PompanoBrownie]

Perigee, it is common practice to remove line level assembly for more distance. If I had to guess I’d say 20 percent farther casts. Sometimes that extra 15 or 20 yards can make the difference between clearing a sand bar or not.

[@IJRR8789]

hi may i know what knot to tie the leader thanks.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Yisimeir, we use mono line on the reel and leader. The knot we use is the “Blood Knot”. Here is a video on how to tie it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqKzm3iHfriJqMk

[@jeffreybabino8161]

How do you tie shock leader of to line

[@PompanoBrownie]

I use a Blood Knot kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqKzm3iHfriJqMk

[@johnbaker3817]

I've got two 25 TLD Shimano reels I'm learning how to cast it's pretty fun

[@PompanoBrownie]

Good luck John! You can do it! Don’t whip it.. be smooth.

[@Dave30867]

I was listening to his voice trying to figure out who he sound like - Yogi Bear lol ✔👍😁😂

[@PompanoBrownie]

I’m smarter than the average Bear... lol

[@briarfox637]

A bigger Paul Walker

[@maiccuzzu125]

What line# mono you use in this reel, I’m getting the same reel, and I will fish from beach so I line that will hold a nice long cast, thanks in advance

[@PompanoBrownie]

14 lb Sufix Tritanium Plus

[@maiccuzzu125]

@@PompanoBrownie thanks one last question, for the rod, I was thinking to buy a penn battalion 12 , what you think about this rod,,, do you have a better suggestion, whit out breaking the bank$$$ 😅😅😅

[@PompanoBrownie]

Okuma Longitude Surf Rods amzn.to/3sWXOyk This Amazon link is for a 12 foot Okuma rod that I believe is about $96. If you use this link i get a small commission without raising the price of the product. Later on... you might even want something longer than 12 ft. 13‘6“ is it what are use, and those are custom built one piece rods that will usually go over 300.

[@maiccuzzu125]

@@PompanoBrownie thanks I will look the okuma, probably will be the best combo to pair with my Penn squall 15…

[@rickdavis2235]

Not sure why braid would be a problem. There are guys here in Texas spooling these reels with 40# braid and an 80# braid top shot and getting 175 yard casts.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Chris Gallagher’s biggest complaint about braid is that it doesn’t “give” as much as mono. A cast that “snaps” versus “smooth” is more likely to birds nest. And there is no arguing that a birds nest with braid is a lot tougher to untangle than mono. When we get into a school of Pompano… losing one of your 3 surf rods for even 30 minutes can really be frustrating.

[@rogerdiogo6893]

Does the penn powerhandle 3 will fit this reel?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Roger, I’m not sure of that and I think the best answer I can give you is to contact their customer support of Penn Reels and get it from the horses mouth. Here’s the number. [phone]

[@hoptag]

what knot does he use to attach the leader?

[@PompanoBrownie]

hoptag, we use the Blood Knot. Here’s a link to a Video I made. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3Tbn6Z9rq1krpo

[@rainesmix]

It be nice if you added all the info you talked about, such as gear.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Sorry about that Rob, If you pause the video on the Mono and Fluoro Chris Mentions, you will see the Brand and most likely get it on Amazon. Thank You!

[@jpmt4316]

Is the casting procedure about the same as casting with a spinner bcuz it almost looks the same. I've never used a conventional and I see what Chris is doing when he casts, but watching it and actually feeling the cast difference is what I wanna know. I've been considering buying a conventional, but it seems that there is much more that you have to pay attention to unlike a spinner where you can just cast, adjust and lock it in.

[@PompanoBrownie]

It’s definitely different, and requires a smoother cast and stopping the spool as Chris explained. If you want easy.. stick with a Spinner. If you want more distance.. learn the Conventional and it too will become easy with practice.

[@jpmt4316]

@@PompanoBrownie OK. I'm not sure which conventional to purchase, but that Penn Squall 15, at that price, doesn't seem like a bad deal. Also, I usually always use braid, but I'm assuming that my chances are greater of getting a birds nest with braid than with mono. Chris did mention the Suffix tritanium. Maybe I'll try that since it has less memory I guess. Thanks bcuz the conventional side of fishing will definitely be new to me. So any advice and pointers is much appreciated. 🐟 🎣 Fish on!😁

[@PompanoBrownie]

Get the 14lb test tritanium plus for the reel and 40lb test for the shock leader.Watch the video again and pay particular attention to magnet settings and casting technique. And remember.. we are supposed to stink at anything new.. practice and patience will overcome anything.

[@jpmt4316]

@@PompanoBrownie OK, much appreciated. I wasn't sure about the mono bcuz where I fish there are usually large bluefish, stripers and stingrays, but OK. Thanks.

[@SaltyBaitsFishing]

Does the size of the reel matter, I have 2 penn squall levelwind 30LH

[@PompanoBrownie]

Thedon, I think you have to experiment with different reels to determine what you’re comfortable with. I know my Spinfisher 7500 long cast spinner by Penn is pretty big, but I like it for its fast retrieval rates for those big pomps are swimming right towards you. Just try a few, and determine that for yourself. Thank you for subscribing to the channel.

[@mypronounismaster4450]

What's the difference between casting a Penn Squall and a Penn Senator?

[@PompanoBrownie]

I’m not an expert, but I believe the squall is more of a surf casting reel because it has built in magnets that are adjustable for resistance to prevent a birds nest. I don’t think the senator has magnets in it. That doesn’t mean it can’t be casted, but not an easily tunable reel for casts over 100 yards.

[@megagatvol]

What length and weight is that fishing rod..what make?? Asking from the UK.

[@PompanoBrownie]

It’s a Carolina Cast Pro 14’

[@megagatvol]

@@PompanoBrownie Thank you kindly for the info..

[@PompanoBrownie]

*These paid links to Amazon pay me a very small percentage if you use them, without raising the cost of the product. This helps support the costs of making the Videos. Thank You Buy my Pompano Rig maker Kit on Ebay and make Rigs for as little as 81 cents!Your Rigs will be Stronger, have Better Hooks, Line and put ANY Color Float or Bead you want! Just search for Pompano Brownie on Ebay! - Pompano Fishing Gear Below - Okuma Longitude Surf Rods amzn.to/3sWXOyk (Note * Cast - means Conventional Reel / Spin means Spinning Reel - Choose Heavy 20/40lb both) Rhino Rack Ski Carrier Surf Rod Car Carrier - amzn.to/3F0vQV2 Penn Squall II 15 Conventional Reel (Chris Gallagher's Model) - amzn.to/3jLiJgw ( Choose SQLII15SDCS for the Casting Special version only 10.00 more) Penn Spinfisher VI 7500LC (Choose Long Cast Option) the Spinning reel I use - amzn.to/2FIEr62 ( Largest is 7500LC 12-13ft rods, 6500LC 10 to 11ft rods , 5500LC 9 to 10ft rods. 8mm Glass Facetted Red Beads - amzn.to/3hwtaT9 Glow in the dark beads - amzn.to/3iQT85s #2 88lb Black Barrel Swivel amzn.to/2Fn5GD9 50lb Black Duo Lock Snaps amzn.to/2Rtc3qP Sufix Tritanium Plus 20lb Chartreuse for spinning reels amzn.to/3VPK4RG Sufix Tritanium Plus 50lb Clear for Rigs or shock leader amzn.to/3PhFI39 Sufix Tritanium Plus 40lb Clear for Rigs or shock leader- amzn.to/2E3kBBH Sufix Tritanium plus 14lb Sufix Tritanium Plus for conventional reels amzn.to/3mr2fM4 Momoi Diamond Presentation Fluorocarbon - 40lb. for Fluro rigs amzn.to/3iwXm1K Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon - 40lb for Fluro rigs amzn.to/3rzdkgO Koehler Industries Clinch Knot Tool amzn.to/2ImsLqP Diamond Round Colored Toothpicks for Pompano Rigs - amzn.to/3Yd50DD Plain Round Toothpicks for Pompano Rigs -amzn.to/3JJY222 Stainless Diagonal Cutter to remove Hooks amzn.to/2lbVnqU Large Nail Clippers for clipping Monofilament and Braid line amzn.to/3VIBK6a Lanyards for your Nail Clippers amzn.to/2ljAV7K Aluminum Fishing Pliers with Sheath and Lanyard amzn.to/2lJcv7M Floats - Make Your own for Pennies. kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2HWmmSFps9lp9E Large Floats - Make Your own for Pennies. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2HYgGNsaNB7jK8si=MEezA6EUrXQSG1yx Hooks - Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L197 Circle Sea Offset 2/0 Hooks - www.tackledirect.com/eagle-claw-lazer-sharp-l197-circle-sea-offset-hooks.html *Tip - Get a Florida Commercial Fishing License for 50.00 if you are a Florida Resident, and you will find that many of the fish houses sell circle L197 2/0 hooks at a deep discount. Plus you can sell your fish to help pay for your gear. Most Fish houses supply Ice for free, so it's worth the 50.00 annual cost! - Sinker Making Gear Below - Lead Melting Pot is a "Lee Magnum Melter" amzn.to/3hyv85p 3" "Do-It "Cast Iron Ladle amzn.to/3myPtLQ Pliers are Channelock E358 8" HIGH LEVERAGE END CUTTING PLIERS amzn.to/2H2T2cS DOIT 5, 6 ounce Storm Sinker Mold amzn.to/48D8SlO DOIT 2, 3, 4 ounce Storm Sinker Mold amzn.to/41D9i9L DOIT #2 Brass wire Eyes amzn.to/32vvky4 -Trap Shooting Targets Below - Laser Birds Targets are made for the purpose of Trap Shooting Practice at Home. They are on Ebay. Just search for “Laser Birds Targets” To learn more about Trap Shooting Practice at Home watch my KZbin Video. (Link Below) kzbin.info/www/bejne/ombFgX9rr8eperc

[@gizmotorizmo8379]

This guy sounds like swagger souls lol

[@gomexusfishingworld2608]

Hi, We just upgrade one new handle for penn conventional, not sure if you are interested in a free try?

[@PompanoBrownie]

No thanks, I appreciate the offer.

[@gomexusfishingworld2608]

@@PompanoBrownie Okey, I understand...If it's convenient, could I know your email please?

[@jeffreybabino8161]

I have one season with casting tackle want start to fish the surf with this tackle

[@dalejgreene2051]

What line is used on the reel?

[@PompanoBrownie]

Sufix tritanium plus 14lb test mono for the conventional reel and Sufix tritanium plus 20lb test mono for spinner reels.

[@joshuastevens5557]

What would prevent the line from going out I cast out and the line doesn’t go anywhere so thank God I brought my spinner reel with me

[@PompanoBrownie]

Ark, throw the spool release lever before the cast. Or, check to make sure the line doesn’t have a loop near the tip of the rod.

[@joshuastevens5557]

@@PompanoBrownie I did that and still nothing I don’t have a local bait shop that can fix it I bought it last year at dicks sporting goods for $100

[@PompanoBrownie]

Ark, i’d go back to Dick’s Sporting Goods and asked to talk to a manager and explain your situation. If this is the first time you’ve used it since purchase I bet they might understand and give you a store credit not a refund.

[@joshuastevens5557]

@@PompanoBrownie I’m going on trip aug 13 I just went to check my gear change my line and also noticed when I real it in it’s constantly making a drag noise kinda clicking idk but I’m not happy

[@PompanoBrownie]

If your reel got dunked in salt water or laid in the sand it will mess it up. I always rinse my reels with slow moving water after fishing.

[@BoandBeceadventures]

I wish you could give a link to the reel

[@PompanoBrownie]

www.basspro.com/shop/en/penn-squall-star-drag-conventional-reel?searchTerm=1747397 Scroll down through the models and the Squall 15 is the 1747397 model.

[@BoandBeceadventures]

Pompano Brownie thank you 🙏 how would you compare the squall to the fathom 2 casting special?

[@charliedanoele]

Hey people I need a little help.. Just purchased squall 2 casting special matched up with 10ft battalion 2 20lb mono. Problem is when preparing reel to cast and it is in free spin, magnets turn to full.. spool tighten down the only way I can prevent back lash while is by turning on clicker.. Should I remove sides and clean packing grease ? Is it normal to leave clicker on..I specifically purchased this reel with magnetic brack to ease my learning curve of casting a conventional reel.. Thanks in advance

[@charliedanoele]

Squall 2 casting special 15

[@PompanoBrownie]

Clicker does not have to be on. Strive for a smooth cast with no whip snapping on release. Here is Penn Reels contact info for more questions and warranty. www.pennfishing.com/contact-us

[@PompanoBrownie]

Try a 14lb test mono. Sufix tritanium plus lays out nice.

[@charliedanoele]

Thanks PB.. I'm going to give Penn a call tomorrow and I'll try the 14..in the meantime I'll be training my thumb and working on casting technique. I will let you know if it's the reel or me.

[@PompanoBrownie]

Vintage, always keep that thumb away from the spool after the cast. If it barely touches the spool with your thumb during a cast it will birds nest for sure. The only time that thumb should hit the spool is the minute the sinker hits the water , and then you stop that spool with your thumb.