Daiwa BG vs Penn Battle II: What's the Difference? | Comparison and Review

Comprehensive comparison review of the new Daiwa BG and Penn Battle II saltwater spinning reels. For years the Penn Battle II sat alone as the industry's best dollar-for-dollar saltwater spinning reel ... until the release of Daiwa's new BG. Watch to find out which model is best for you, and which one I think is the planet's best value saltwater spinning reel.
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Watch the comprehensive Daiwa BG4000 overview • The Perfect Spinning R...
Watch the Penn Battle II vs Penn Fierce II comparison • Penn Battle II vs Penn...
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Specifications:
Daiwa BG4000 DAI-2355
Max Drag: 17.6 lbs
Line Capacity (Braid): 370/20, 280/30, 200/40
Line Capacity (Mono): 300/10, 260/12, 210/14
Weight: 14.3 oz
Bearings: 7 (6 body, 1 line roller)
Gear Ratio: 5:7:1 (4000 size)
MSRP: $109
Penn Battle II BTLII4000
Max Drag: 15 lbs
Line Capacity (Braid): 360/15, 260/20, 185/30
Line Capacity (Mono): 270/8, 220/10, 165/12
Weight: 12.8 oz
Bearings: 6 (5 body, 1 line roller)
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1 (4000 size)
MSRP: $109
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Reference articles -
Alan Hawk's Daiwa BG Review: www.alanhawk.com/reviews/bg16....
Wirecutter's Daiwa BG Review: thewirecutter.com/reviews/bes...
Reel credit: Thanks to Ron aka Budo Fishing for the BG4000 reel loan. Follow Budo Fishing on KZbin / @budofishing and Instagram @budo_fishing
Song credit: 'George Street Shuffle' by Kevin MacLeod.
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[@ishwithfish]

If you like what you see, visit www.amazon.com/shop/ishwithfish for ALL the gear I use, review, and approve. These affiliate links directly support future content. Gratitude! 🙏 -------- one thing i edited out (cut for time) was a balance test ... if you hold the BG by the reel foot so it's parallel to the ground, you'll notice it's pretty bottom-heavy; i attribute that to the larger body, bigger gearing and light graphite spool. if you do the same to the battle, you'll notice it holds perfectly level; i attribute that to the smaller body and alloy rotor. the difference *may* make a difference in casting, but tbh i think that has more to do with the rod you're pairing with. just an fyi. personally i prefer the Battle II for surf casting because it's a better balanced reel on my battalion and in a smaller form factor, and the bail mech is much better and never prematurely trips. also, while the BG is consistently heavier than the Battle II (4000 size BG 14.3 oz vs Battle II 12.8 oz) i glossed over it because it's a small difference and the salt isn't a place for weight weenies. if you must save ounces, try a Penn Clash or any of the newer Daiwa LT reels.

[@jumbominnow916]

Ish With Fish have you tried the daiwa lexa, if so what do you think about it

[@ishwithfish]

+Brandon Saelee yes! i have a Lexa Winn 300 7.1 LH. review is coming, in the meantime you can see it in action in my 'Wok-Fried Tacos' lingcod vid.

[@limirl]

Weight makes a big difference to me as I have ongoing shoulder issues. For that reason I went with the lightest quality reel I could find that would not break the bank and I ended up getting a stradic 5000. The shimano 5000 series is equivalent to other manufacturers 4000 series when it comes to line capacity & for weight it came in much lighter at 11.3oz. I need a backup reel and will likely go with the BG over the Battle.

[@ishwithfish]

+limirl great point, i didn't consider anglers with physical limitations where a few ounces add up. ill note that for future reviews, thx👍

[@mhyatt82262]

@@limirl - I like your thinking. I also find myself fishing with a 5000. I like this size.

[@outdoorfreedom9778]

Great review! I ordered the BG 5000 yesterday. I wanted the manual bail this time.

[@SunsTo7]

Wow, thanks for the terrific description of these machines. I have a clear understanding of what I want now. Very well done.

[@tarjas]

One of the best review videos I’ve seen, thanks!

[@BadSensation]

Been waiting for this all week! Great comparison. Keep up the good work man! Made my day!

[@ishwithfish]

thx man, pretty cool my little reviews get this kind of support! i have a couple more reel reviews to post soon, been getting more and more samples and high-end loaners, stay tuned

[@oscargarcia6878]

Ish With Fish hopefully a VR50 review coming soon? Keep up the videos brotha I always look out for them

[@ishwithfish]

Oscar Garcia yes! i have someone who promised me a loaner, hopefully it comes through.

[@bradmundies425]

I have a BG 5000 and I absolutely love it, great reel.

[@ronlyonphoto]

Just got my Penn Battle II 4000 reel. It was great to hear your analysis of the reel and really helped to learn more about it. Great job!

[@ishwithfish]

right on thx! some decent discounts on the battle ii nowadays since the battle iii is out👍🏼

[@jammin1881]

I have a penn battle 6000 (lasting six seasons) now and a Shimano spheros 6000. The battle and the spheros has seen some use and the only time I had to take apart either was this season. There was a feint clicking in the drag / bail system and had to strip the battle down. It’s been dunked and bashed around on boats on many occasions. I’m all I’m very happy with both reels!

[@Smitty2043]

This was one of the best reviews I've seen, very thorough. Excellent job. I have been eyeing these two reels for sometime. I just recently purchased the Battle II 6000 for jigging. I haven't used it yet but I am sure I will enjoy it. I will certainly consider the BG for my next purchase. Again, great job.

[@ishwithfish]

thx so much. both are great buys, having used both i lean towards the bg, but both are great utility reels.

[@rohzpopper4922]

It got twin stopper for bigger size. Will kill those battle.

[@jfish2992]

Great comparison. I have both reels. Both are fantastic. BG is a little beefier and seems to have more power behind it. Also a little heavier. Penn battle ll is lighter but feels really good from cast to cranking in fish. I reach for my battle ll first but love both.

[@brandon071194]

I just picked up the bg5000 combo and I love it. First quality reel I’ve had

[@ishwithfish]

great choice!

[@boosted2809]

Excellent review!! I own both and cant really decide which one I would pick if I had to chose one.

[@seamurda100]

I bought the BG because of your video and I'm really happy with it. Thanks for the review!

[@ishwithfish]

awesome, glad to have helped

[@Birkulumiste7]

which model? Is it still good? how many times you fish? At sea?

[@pohau80]

@@Birkulumiste7 i bought the BG-3000 to test it out in the Ocean last year, seen about 45 days in salt water on a kayak, getting destroyed by stripped bass, and albies and it's still working pretty smoothly, the drag is still stable, all around really good for something you could get for a 100, but personally it's a little too heavy for kayak fishing.

[@Birkulumiste7]

@@pohau80 i want the 2500. For my 240cm rod (14-40 gram cw)

[@pohau80]

@@Birkulumiste7 well if you're looking to surf cast on piers and stuff, i don't see why you would want something that small, since it could be easily spooled if you manage to hook onto something that could take lines, when its not fully spooled

[@Ranger-vv2jv]

I have all Penn's, mostly the Spinfisher from the greenies to the V.I have a whole set of Battles no trouble at all.I have a Clash 2500 and 4000.I love these 2 reels,very lite.The new pursuit are the best buy for your money that the 3 series with HT-100drag.

[@vaeratartheon5170]

Read Alan Hawks reviews on the BG. He is a reel connoisseur and expert on reels. The BG has internal gears that are found in high end reels and he pretty much said Daiwa is actually losing profit on these reels at that price point. BG is absolutely a much better buy over the Battle 2. Hands down the best $100 reel you can buy in the world

[@Nofishnoclue]

He didn't say that, they don't have the gearing from high end reels they have cast zinc which is the cheapest standard construction although they are very well made zinc gears and they definitely are not losing money on them think about how or why they would do that for a second

[@rohzpopper4922]

Got the 4500 twin stopper after reading his review. BG name is also legendary and have cult status everywhere !

[@simontimoney]

Well said.. I've had a Penn battle 2..i now have a Daiwa BG.. Much more powerful and bigger line capacity than the battle

[@Josepena-sq4vh]

Alan Hawk recomienda el Daiwa BG del 2016, es el segundo mejor carrete de ese precio porque el primero es el Shimano Spheros SW A. Alan Hawk así los califica y ese hombre no deja escapar una en sus análisis

[@donsmith6698]

I have been using shimano spheros and penn battle ll 's for my inshore work in the past. Just got a BG. Awesome reel, smooth as butter...

[@backyahdbbq1254]

Thanks for the awesome review. Was thinking of getting a second Penn Battle 2 - 8000 series for crabbing. After watching this video for the 3rd time, I decided to go with the BG8000. Also, thanks for the amazon link. Will be getting more from your link once I get into striper and perch fishing.

[@backyahdbbq1254]

Coza King Yep. Didn’t know it was gonna be that big. It should be great for bringing up 2-3 🦀’s on a snare. Gonna give it a try on Monday. 🤙

[@DieHardFishing]

A+ review! So glad I have someone to do all the reel homework for me.

[@ishwithfish]

thx dhf, it is homework lol, these reviews take more time to produce than my fishing vids sometimes. but if they lead to a better informed buy, i've done my job.

[@elizabethfield3803]

Die Hard Fishing tackle Advisors. .Much better ish.so bias

[@stevethebarber1]

I have 2 BG 1500’s for my trout rods and love them!

[@dynasty4851]

I like your honesty! I'm so subscribing to your channel. Tight lines!

[@ishwithfish]

thx👍

[@adolph289]

I use Daiwa my wife uses Penn battle II .. Both are really nice reels

[@BudoFishing]

Great review and comparison of the BG!! I should get one of those!!😁

[@ishwithfish]

+Budo Fishing i got a 4000 you can have for $free dollas, 'reel' cheap!😂 jkjk thx again bro, sorry it took so long.

[@PaOutcast]

Awesome review, I have the Penn and love it!

[@ronevans1229]

Wow! Impressive video sir! I haven't seen any better reviews with all pertinent and salient issues identified. I believe Alan Hawk would be proud. Kudos! Keep up the good work.

[@ishwithfish]

thx for the kind words! i have a bunch more reel reviews coming soon, some known and some unknown, stay tuned.

[@alecbotash2427]

Thanks for video, it really helped me to decide , Good luck 👍

[@BasskingRc]

You know there both very good reels and I always lean towards penn because I own the battle and fierce and recently got the pursuit 3 and the conflict I've had them for past few years and fish everything with them I have nothing bad to say other than there's not enough hours in the day to use them so id recommend the Penn's anyway of the week

[@idaho2085]

New sub here my friend. Excellent overview, keep them coming. LOVING what I'm seeing on your channel, and can't wait to see more. Cheers my man.

[@ishwithfish]

thx for the kind words👍🏼

[@nandafebriansyah2159]

Fe646315j8i69oi8iui98t9o7o98tit8u6u5uti698y87t8ut858687596425899y232214y7yj8i68768686i986989i5i54tet6u54864ey4u58ju99y9u9u69ut9urituyujut9itiy7r648589iy9iy9itiu599urhthyhtiuyyy8t25u4yy649i99y8u89iretrttyte74747588tuoiy8uy9iy9999t44e5245hyuuiuyouyoi4854y4uuu59u9uryhiu7uuuyu58uyuyyyt868ut9iy9995143t4utjyjujujuuyiuiyuuu68it9oy9😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷ur9i9iu09ue213yikol9o797i6i586i58697retr747323uollhxs69k9y3uj75909te6e13yn8k9i7999733uk9l954h7895y4u4224h6h6u6u58i0976uuuuy595324uujurjyjyjti43ujuu7uuu7774ijutuyj6842u9i4477324h83137k997489i60u4uj7u5u6664im86988777j79o698rertrjy863yyru4642379ko9649953y3y3633333214uj9i8i9i5jj976j79ijre242t4t3utu589itiytur8u3y3u4888585u4224yi7u7u7imoi59i47u6480u5j5i53224yh6y4ij8y5juh7uuu6498r8973j7215y5u5215h8i48u7i769iut4759it9iebu464ut4ij42526h628u942759o

[@randyr6610]

I got the pen battle 2 got the 4000 and 5000 for salmon fishing had them for four years and they are awesome no problems.

[@Raivoization]

How big salmons you drag with this? I purcheised bg 4000 today and aither for salmon fishing :)

[@-o-The-Duke-o-]

When I turned 5 in 1979, my dad asked what I'd like for my birthday. He took me down to K-Mart and I picked out a Diawa Combo. That rod and reel was used throughout my childhood, my young adulthood and into my 30s before I had to retire it. Only once had I had an issue.... the grease had dried out and I sent it in to Daiwa. They completely serviced it and sent it back free of charge. They have a lifetime customer here. Glad they are still rocking it. Thank you for the review!

[@ishwithfish]

sounds like a winner, thx for sharing👍

[@alanp6773]

Great review & comparison. I chose the Penn.., simply because of owning 4 Penn reels. I keep them clean and I know how to repair them when needed. I also own a 2004 Shimano 1000. Great reel to catch bait fish. Again.., great review. Thx

[@barryiwashita6352]

Go BG...less repairs !

[@FatTire713]

Great description on both reels! I've had lower end Daiwa product and struggled with it, but I accept it was lower end. I have the Penn Battle II 4000 and 5000 (long cast surf) and love them both. My fishing group here in FL is high on the Daiwa BG...I guess I'm just into Penn's HT-100 drag plus heavy click you get when you open the bail. That sound just means have fun casting to me. PS - If you kayak fish....here's the Penn inshore triple threat. Conflict 3000/7' TFO M/MH for 1/8oz. weighted hook jigs. Spinfisher V 3500/Redbone 7' M carolina/dropper rig for live bait. Battle II 4000/Falcon Coastal X9 7' MH popping cork. All balanced so choose what works that day, covers every application and works for me!

[@ishwithfish]

awesome arsenal, thx for sharing! yup, that Penn 'click' is second to none, a big reason why i use the Clash in the surf.

[@marshallloring2956]

Thanks for a great professional independent in-depth analysis and comparison of these reels. We consumers need the details to make an informed decision. Too often I only have max drag, spool line capacity and weight to compare. Thanks for your efforts in this professional production !

[@ishwithfish]

np! i just make reviews i wanna see before i make a purchase decision. sounds like i'm on the right track👍

[@iusoloman1527]

Awesome review. Thanks!!

[@ralph7077]

Excellent review!

[@williaml1232]

I have the bg with the Abe Garcia villain 2.0! Don't regret the combo

[@bradwadefishtx]

I have a 2500 BG for inshore and love it. I've been wanting a 4000 for surf/jetty and have been on the fence with the Battle 2 or another BG. I'm still new to fishing and going with variety and getting the Penn. Although your review leaned more towards the BG it still helped me decide. Very informative. Thanks, new sub here.

[@victrou280]

Go for the BG.

[@richarde1355]

Thanks for the great video!I checked both out yesterday, in size 5000. I was amazed at how much larger, in every way, the BG was compared to the similar sized Battle II. In the BG series, it's a BIG jump from the 4000 to the 5000.Like you, I find the sturdier bail of the Penn appealing. The Daiwa bail seems relatively flimsy compared to the rest of the reel. That, however, isn't enough to tip me in favor of the Penn. Crank the BG and crank the Penn, and the choice is clearly the BG, to me. So much smoother and quieter than the Battle. The Battle is a fine reel, but the BG is an incredible value.

[@ishwithfish]

thanks for the feedback, i agree on all your points!

[@FaisalKhan-xy1dv]

Owned and killed many fish on the Penn Battle II 6000 since 2014. For saltwater fishing, with a limited budget, I’d never buy anything else. The Battle II is a Tank.

[@Engineer_Heathen]

Daiwa makes the best reels at this price point. Penn is a close second, but definitely not as good as a diawa. I've also tried Shimano but thought it was junk. I have a diawa bg for spinner, and diawa saltist for conventional. Love them both.

[@jwhit8841]

Good to know the clicker on the Penn is more quiet then the Daiwa. I actually thought the Daiwa was too quiet in my review and that's only thing I don't like about the BG

[@jakelencher817]

the intro music gave me a wave of warm air. easy to watch a video with that. 5:32 i watched a guy at the jetty lose a big 10 dollar paddle tail cause he didnt open the bail all the way, but i still love my BG.

[@ryand8461]

the BG is just f'n beautiful. I have a jdm 4000H and 6000

[@johnhall20]

I own both reels in various sizes. The BG has superior bearings and the drag is smoother. Overall, I think the BG is a better reel. Only complaint about the BG is that the bail wire could be beefier. I take the bail trip ramps off my reels to prevent premature closure on casts.

[@Useraccount7415]

How did you remove the bail ramps

[@Dave30867]

Dont listen to this rubbish .@@Useraccount7415

[@obtugtxivtub]

Still have my BG13 from back in 2000. Going to use it until it falls apart.

[@gerry427]

Love your vids but dont forget that Penn's top-of-the-line drag system is called Dura-Drag . Keep the vids coming they are very informative and easy to view and understand !!!

[@ishwithfish]

+Gerald Velasco you're totally right, Dura-Drag is a step up from HT-100, my bad. and thx for the compliment! i have a bunch more reviews in the queue, including a Slammer III which includes Penn's true top of the line Dura-Drag system.

[@outsidelife5411]

good, detailed review. was thinking about Penn fierce 2, but after this review; might get the battle 2 instead

[@outsidelife5411]

After this review, I bought the battle II 4000! Feel so smooth, can't wait to use it. Trying to pair a good rod with it.

[@johnrichjr.415]

Nice detailed review. I own a couple different sized B2's and love them in the surf. To me these two reels are like Coke and Pepsi , its personal preference. Penn Slammer3 ❤ but that's another story 😀

[@ishwithfish]

+John Rich i actually have an s3 5500 on the bench, should have an overview out soon👍

[@bobbygeneperry2589]

i have the 1000 battle 2 . i have it paired with a shimano exchege 7ft telescopic rod. i do a lot of backpacking and camping. i bought it because of the build. other reels i have owned get bent and broken. it is the toughest reel i have ever owned. it got dropped off a bridge onto some boulders. about a 30 to 40 foot drop. with only minor scratches. i was pleased to see it did not break or bend the bail or handle. the rod was colapsed and also managed to surive. it really takes a beating on a daily basis by getting smacked around and not getting cleand very often. i think twice i rinsed it out since i have owned it. mind you i do more salt water fishing than fresh.. its been with me everywhere i go for the past year . i cant say enough good about it.

[@ishwithfish]

great feedback, thx!

[@erwinwestby5719]

I have 15 penn battle 2, first thing to go is the main gear, I admit we use the hard for charters, second thing to go is bailspring. Bg seems to be bit more rugged.

[@lumzarinum]

do you know how to remove the auto trip bail? if do could you do a video tutorial for it. thanks

[@pigcoke]

Amazon prime day has big sales on Penn battle II today!!

[@jamminjim]

One thing I think missing is which is easier for owner maintenance ?

[@joej2409]

I own 4 penn reels 2 being the battle 2.. Love penn

[@dmartin5498]

I have the battle 8000 its held to to sturgeon fishing on the fraser river for a few years now ..... caught several over 7 feet long (200+ lbs) in strong current .... its a great reel and I don't see it failing any time soon

[@rohzpopper4922]

BG 4500 up have twin stopper. No fail anti reverse ! Drag is smooth

[@rich3782]

Great video, thanks for posting. Happy fishing :)

[@garypeters9771]

Very good review 👍

[@tedsell1455]

I have Penn battle 2 from 3000 -6000 some 5 years old no problems ! surf fishing is hard on a reel, want to try the BG though

[@BallinRiceBowl]

I own both the Battle II and BG. If you’re looking for something in the 4000 size like the Battle you may want to look at the BG 3500 or 3000. The BG runs huge! I much prefer the BG. It’s so much smoother and a literal $100 tank of a reel. I’ve had friends and family with battles die off from surf fishing. Which sucks cause I also own 2 pursuits for the surf and abuse them much more, but they’ve outlasted their battles

[@zarulkhairuddin1229]

Nice reel.. i just got my BG8000 today. Just can’t wait to fish.

[@thehegt]

I bought the BG 4000 & BG 4500 , BG 4000 for Porgy ( scup ) black sea bass and the BG 4500 for blackfish and stripper bass .

[@venustianocarranza3182]

I love my BG reel , i have always bought Penn reels . I saw the Bg on sale so i decided to give it a try, and i am sold on it. I just can't believe how smooth it is . I just bought my second one

[@Zerowolf760]

Same here...I love Penn, but just bought this Daiwa.

[@rayditzenberger9517]

I have been a Diawa fan since the late 70s. Before that Garcia was my choice. I still use some of my old mitchel 308s and 408s and a 2500c casting reel. All of my newer stuff is Diawa. Back in the day the penn spinning stuff just did not measure up imo. Nice comparison review btw thanks

[@ericlin4016]

Love these reel comparisons and especially love the cheap reel reviews. Please do more of the cheap Chinese reel reviews!

[@ishwithfish]

+Cardea will do! i have one im testing now with a few in the mail coming soon.

[@rohzpopper4922]

Got the twin stopper BG 4500. Also the old BG 5000 is 40 YO. MyRyobi Aplause is 40 YO. The Ryobi Vertigo if 3O YO. BG have cult status. Much better than Penn

[@outdoorfreedom9778]

I'm more into the crab snarring then surf fishing and this comparison gave me a slight shove towards the Daiwa. Great review!!

[@jongregory886]

I have both , I like both. I fish heavy salt. If I know I’m gonna beat the crap out of my reel I’m taking the penn cause it’s easier to take apart and service. if I’m looking for more finesse and don’t have to worry to much about conditions I’m taking the BG. It’s a toss up just depends on your application.

[@patrickbale201]

This is 4 years old and I like both reels still. I’ve ran plenty of charters with both but in my opinion the Penns are really easy to work on. Replacing parts is simple so I go with pens

[@anchor-uppontoonlovers2574]

Great review !!! the best I have ever seen, thank you for helping me decide I now have both reels your review was just awesome

[@dartfrogger]

I have three battles... and I can't say I'd recommend them... they feel rough very quickly, and that was when they had only seen fresh water. Also, I get a ton of premature bail trips on the battles that I don't get on their higher end reels. Penn's higher end reels have been wonderful though... I highly recommend the clash.. I have two.... the slammer 3 has also been wonderful. I just grabbed a spinfisher 6, but haven't fished it yet.

[@seanmurphy8765]

I couldn’t agree more! I can’t stand my battles they just seemed to wear out over time. I eventually switched to the spinfisher and clash and there both great reels!

[@KEPTIFISHING]

We use the pen battle 2 for most of our fishing thanks for the info looking to find out about the bg.

[@rohzpopper4922]

It will lose the battle to BG. 4500 up have twin stopper.

[@itzglen]

I have both of them. Diawa 3BG 500, Penn Battle II 4000 sizes. They are both excellent. Built like tanks, they are smooth and very strong. The Diawa in the 3500 is roughly the same size as the Penn 4000. The Diawa overall a better reel.

[@ishwithfish]

agreed. thx for your input!

[@shawnweed265]

I have them both too...Functionally...I find them the same while fishing...the big difference I notice is when cleaning them at the end of the day...I have never been a fan of the holes in the Battle's spool. Salt water gets dropped on the back side of those holes and makes it a little harder to clean...I like the SSVs better overall with their solid spools. The same with the BG...other than that...they are both excellent reels for a $100 bucks...it is indeed a great time to be a fisherman!

[@joshballard7101]

@@shawnweed265 heres a hack fpr you at the end of your trip soak your reel dont spray it soak it in warm water and re oil it every few times it will last along time

[@RH-qk5lt]

Penn battle ii is in my opinion the best spinning reel made for the price. Ok. I've used both these reels in 2000, 3500, 4000 and 5000 size the past year salt and fresh water after my opinion/post above. I've taken them both apart to oil and grease and I've changed my opinion. I really like The Diawa BG. I've caught myself reaching for the Diawa when on the same rod. The Diawa is noticeably lighter, slightly better looking and also noticeably smoother than the Penn. Both are fantastic reels and probably the best reels available under $100 This is a spot on video review.

[@miguelplascencia6093]

Yeah the diawa is actually going feel smother longer because of that extra bearing while the Penn is running on a bushing so after a year its going to feel like a zebco reel.

[@olliepainter2155]

@@slyarsenal How? Maybe if you dont know how to use a reel then yeah, it is.

[@jerrymarshall2095]

@@slyarsenal not really ,made in china,ur a big pile dude

[@aidensfishingchannel3077]

I always wanted a penn but I tried the diawa 4500 love it so much more

[@rohzpopper4922]

No. Price point. BG is too far ahead. Best budget reel and in top 5 best reel in the world. Battle ? So sorry lad. Penn have good name. Old reels have better quality than today's reel. My old BG, Ryobi,Tica is 30-40 YO. Got the BG4500 because of twin stopper

[@davidcloyd1296]

Wow, you’re good man! Much appreciated

[@officialWWM]

The BG looks cooler, so I'm buying that one :)

[@v33zy79]

Battle II 3000 hasn’t failed me yet. Best $100 I’ve ever spent on fishing rod and reel in a combo package at the local Ace Hardware. 190 yards of 25lb braid has landed me some 12-18” sail catfish, red drum, sheepshead, speckled sea trout, and a monster jack fish without any hassle. Got it soaking wet when a wave hit me while I was chest deep in the ocean and it worked flawlessly.

[@larryengland989]

I also have an ambassador 7000 on a 7 foot 6 inch Duckett silver rod. I love it too.

[@tonydancz6789]

I use a penn battle 6000

[@jansejans54]

I own a 4000 BG and 2500 BG i think it is , i use the smaller for trout and it is amazing the size of trout i pulled in , i got a 16pound yella belly on my small BG when flicking lures for red fin , you cant beat the BG Tight lines Sparetimefisho

[@rev.jeffwillrumble7711]

I'm just back from Baja where I used a Battle II 5000 series for surf fishing. I used an 11 foot rod to cast, among other things, a 2.25 oz skimmer lure called a "Cabo Killer." With this combo I caught roosterfish, several types of snapper, leopard grouper, corvina... At one point, a serious roosterfish ripped off about 100 yards of line. The Battle II handled it with no problems. I caught a LOT of good fish on this reel. I would definitely consider buying another. In fact, I'm considering it right now. There's a good chance that I will... maybe one size up to better handle those roosters...

[@ishwithfish]

awesome feedback, thx so much!

[@1539Mickey]

Hi Ish, Good review. Two additional features on the BG. I have the BG3000 and it has a ball bearing on the spool main shaft ( under the drag washers) and a rotor brake that comes on when the bail is open. It slows the rotor spin when casting to prevent the bail from closing during the cast. I don't know if the Battle II has them. The large main gear on the BG is made of machined aluminum, not zinc. Thanks, Mickey

[@ishwithfish]

great feedback, thx. i think i forgot to mention the rotor brake, good catch. re the main gear, i went by alan hawks assessment that the bg main is zinc and not alu as advertised. hoping by now daiwa is actually using alu. i opened a newer saltist and it was def alu.

[@1539Mickey]

Hi Ish, Love your videos and reviews. Thanks, Mickey

[@jaredwolk6460]

I had this reel for a year now the diawa bg 8000 and its awesome for on the boat and on the surf I highly recommend the reel great price and the rod that’s best with it is 1 ugly stik gx2 and the second best is the diawa D wave rod

[@TheAutisticAngler]

In England the Penn Surfblaster 8000 is incredibly popular, but I opted to go for a Battle 2 7000, because I just didn't like the surfblaster. No complaints yet, I went and bought a 2nd one!

[@ishwithfish]

thx for the feedback man, b2 is a great reel. although that Surfblaster looks awesome though :)

[@israelvibrations100]

I've been using my BG's.......And there nothing in my opinion better in the world of price features quality strengths options versatility power longevity speed Spin on roter to nob and PRICE......absolutly will IN ALL aspects of Choose BG OVER PEN......hands down I have so many video of the BG......THAT there is no end to the better or best design features of the BGs.....so happy....IT WAS CREATED....damn😀😀!!......

[@ishwithfish]

MyFishing Addictions i get the feeling the anglers that love their BG, like, LOVE their BG. i guess a great reel will do that😊

[@Mafteer]

what about penn spinfisher? i want a bg4000 or spinfisher 4500...

[@israelvibrations100]

Jose García for me it up to how your fishing style is.....if you want long long looong lasting reel Penn Spinfisher is the way to go it has a record of longevity just like the old Black Gold Daiwa( witch they Stop Producing)...but if your looking for speed in terms of line retrieve...BG 4000....would be the choice......If you looking for line capacity both are equal....but as far as casting BGs have a larger spool for easier casting....and much much less line coil...or tight turns as the spool digs deep on the Spinfisher. But if your a caster the BG is much easier to turn do to the air Rotor....so it's easier on the hands and wrist....so that my impute as to what you might be looking in features 😀😀

[@jefflewis8243]

Just picked up a BG5000. 40 lb braid.Pairing it with a Daiwa Proteus 7'6" med heavy fast. Should be a worthy combo for jigging big Lings. Very smooth feel

[@ishwithfish]

good choice!

[@cloaiza613]

1st off excellent video.. just wanted to add that Daiwa "Hard Bodyz" actually indicates the process of anodizing the body and body cover. Anodizing adds to the protection of the body in the form of making it corrosion and scratch resistant.. Pretty big deal for those that use their reel in a saltwater environment.

[@ishwithfish]

+Chris L thx for the compliment. i came across this while researching 'Hard Bodyz' www.daiwa-cormoran.info/dw/en/67/352/5,1,98,74,74,1__products-knowledge.htm and to me it's specific to their alloy production process, not the anodization step (i forgot to mention the BG is anodized, oops). either way, you're right in that the anodization step is awesome, imo superior to the battle ii paint and will hold up to corrosion very well.

[@cloaiza613]

Thanks for the follow up! Makes me feel even better about the construction of the reel itself. I have a 2500 and a 4500! Best bang for the buck! Tight Lines!!

[@rohzpopper4922]

There's a daiwa copy BANAX SX series. The copy of old BG. Double annodiised body. High quality products. So robust like BG. Developed cult status. I own one it's 40YO and working fine. It's heavy No problem in hauling monster. I also got some new BGs.I got 6 Daiwas of my 30 reels

[@FranktheTank319]

I have a Battle II and I have to agree with your decision to go with the Daiwa. I really like my reel, but when you're constantly casting and retrieving, it tends to be a little bit of a hassle with the heavier body and larger gear ratio to reel in. It takes much more force and makes the reel feel unbalanced. I'm also not a huge fan of the grip, either. I would much rather have the grip on the BG because I have rather large hands.

[@fvaldez714]

Frank Concemi fyi you can always upgrade grips

[@johnnagy1495]

Battle hands down best reel. I own 5 of them. 2500-5000. A beast of a reel.

[@tuannguyen728]

Man, I bought a battle 2 5000 and the same day after catching a few fish, the bail broke on me. I can see the housing separated and the spring came out, returned it to Dick's and the store associate told me he sees that issue with Penn all the time. I guess they don't make it like they used to before. Gonna give the Daiwa Bg a try.

[@thehegt]

Penn Battle ii 4000 combo for only $83 on Amazon right now

[@geradebowden3293]

Tuan Nguyen bg’s are great! I have a 4000

[@jimmiestewart3730]

I bought a Battle 2 and it only lasted 3 months. Turned into a coffee grinder

[@s3xyb1tch79]

In have the Battle II 4000 for about two years and love it, havent had a problem yet. I only use Penn so dont know how other compare.. grest vid

[@rohzpopper4922]

2 yrs ? 😀My Ryobi Applause 4000 is 40 yrs old. Much copied reel. There are many clone. Got a Vertigo 4000 by Ryobi is 30 yrs old. The old BG 5000 is 40 yes old. It's a rock. A legendary reel. Got a newer BG 4500 with twin stopper.for 3-4 yes . I'm more into Daiwa. But Shimano is a little smoother. Never goes wrong with Black Gold. One of the best reel in the world.

[@shred5]

I use a BG 2000 for finesse bass fishing and can't say enough good about it. It doesn't break the bank and fishes like a reel twice in price plus a couple extra ounces and it's even easy to clean. The Penn Battle II is not a bad reel either, but it has some pretty tough competition here.

[@ishwithfish]

right on, thx for the freshwater perspective, appreciated!

[@enlightenment6278]

My Battle 2s are fabulous reels, I caught many huge fish from beach rocks wharves and boats in NZ and the Battle 2s have been flawless

[@chibifoods]

Nice review! Just have a question that I've been seeing a lot but don't understand, what are fixed spooler reels? Are they inferior, or does it not really matter? Thanks

[@timolean5846]

I’d like to see you do a review on the tsunami shield

[@thomaspowell9494]

I have the BG 4500 it’s a great reel.

[@barryiwashita6352]

Got that 👍🏼....can’t go wrong for the price and it’s a solid performer

[@RuggedRunnerOverland]

As of right now there's only a $10 difference at full MSRP between the Daiwa BG and Penn Battle III reels...however Penn does offer a dealer exclusive Penn Battle III DX for the same price through smaller Penn vendors, the DX version has some upgrades for all sizes including CNC brass gearing for even the smaller models as well as an upgraded drag and additional spool bearing. I picked up the 2500 Penn Battle III DX for $120 shipped, got it on a St. Croix 6'6" medium rod and love the setup...I just ordered a Fenwick HMG 6'9" medium light rod and will try pairing that with a Daiwa BG 2000 for mostly freshwater pan & bass fishing. From looking at and holding both reels in hand at Bass Pro, I think both reels offer a great value especially if you can catch either one on sale.

[@06Vfr800]

In Sa , we are expreriencing issues with the drag spool tensioner knob wearing out on the BG . Anyone else have the same sort of issue ?thank you .

[@joshanderson8501]

Thank you for the video review. The BG was given the better overall rating but would you still consider the BG to be the better choice for consistently casting heavy lures for surf fishing? I have a 12 ft surf rod I want to pair one of these reels with. Most likely a 6000 or 6500 depending on which model I choose. I have been going through the comments and it seems like mix reviews on which would be the better reel due to line lay, bail trip, etc. Also, do either of these reels have problem with wind knots from throwing braided line? I have had problems with that in the past, very frustrating when a large amount of line knots up when the bite is going off. It looks like the battle has a more even line distribution and higher gear ratio allowing a faster retrieve but the gears wear out faster in the long run than the BG. Thoughts?

[@ishwithfish]

hi, thx for the comment. in my experience the battle ii is the better casting reel due to the much stronger bail mech spring. it's also better balanced and not as bottom heavy as the bg. the only one i had wind knot problems with was the bg; one day i was casting with a strong cross wind and for whatever reason, i ended up with 2 bad wind knots, first and only time ever with the bg4000. have never had a problem with wind knots with my battle 2, clash 4000, fierce ii 3000 etc the penn spools seem to be pretty consistent.

[@jufrirayyan2584]

The bail arm does it for me... 15 seconds in.. I own a Penn spinfisher V 8500, a Penn Slammer 3 5500, they have never failed me, am impressed with the solid construction. Penn all the way

[@hykeletdjkel3433]

jufri rayyan yes you rigth but the water is geting inside bro!! comparate to bg daiwa .. nothing is going inside exept oil 😉

[@rohzpopper4922]

But BG have legendary Cult status .Best Top 5 reel in the world😁 Penn is like old Harley. Good in name but not superior

[@YL-mc9oz]

VERY NICE - THANK YOU !!!

[@ericvang544]

Bought 3 Penn battle two 4000 and one 5000 both the 4000 main gears are striped within the first year.... the 5000 is on my surf rod, which gets less usage time so it's still operational. Spring is upon us so let's see if she'll last lol

[@ishwithfish]

yup, i heard about the pot alloy mains failing. my friend using a 6000 for crabbing and the main stripped in one season. my 4000 main is showing a bit of pitting but still spins fine, we'll see how long it lasts too lol

[@thehegt]

I would love to try out the Daiwa 4000 I have been using too much Penn .

[@philmcrackin9573]

There's no such thing as too much using anything. If you're using a walmart kids rod, you're fishing alot! Woohoo! Hahaha

[@thehegt]

Phil McRackin I only use penn fishing rod and reel I mean the slammer and penn international rod I have 3 set of rod and reel from penn none of the, from Walmart , I just purchased the Daiwa BG4000 with the Penn 1 piece 8-17 lbs medium action for fishing porgy and love it .

[@terrencewrigley8860]

Both Penn and daiwa are Fuji products so i don't expect a big difference in quality for price. I got lost of Penn reels and love them but daiwa is a step up in price. It's like comparing Honda to Acura. Im more into conventional reels so i only have one open face setup for salt water and i would say that Penn ferrous II is amazing for the price and it is definitely bullet proof. Nothing will outlast Penn reels but there is room for improvement regarding how smooth the ferrous II is. I got an old Penn #85 that will outcast my Abu Ambassadors and my guess is it's from the 60's

[@rohzpopper4922]

Penn is made in China now, on some models. But BG have a legendary Cult status on all over the world ! So tough and reliability is legendary. New BG is one of the best in the world in top 5. My olg BG is 40 yrs old and working fine