Rod and reel combo came through the delivery system together no box or protection except for a thin plastic bag and a small cardboard cap on the tip. Every guide was bent in all different directions.

The rod it's self overall is a good looking fishing rod but now they make the entire reel seat and all parts out of plastic. Having plastic rings to keep my reel on the rod gives me as much confidence as a paper
parachute. I really expected more from a quality company like PENN. Oh well, live and learn !

Really impressed with the combo so far. Comes with lots of backing and the fly line does indeed have a welded loop. The reel is not fully sealed so keep that in mind when saltwater fishing. But the real does have a smooth drag system with a satisfying click. I think the only thing missing is that there is no hook keeper above the handle which is odd. Everything else is quite nice upon looking it over and setting it up. It does handle large bass poppers well and is able to cut through the wind like a large fly rod should. A fantastic starter combo for targeting larger fish without breaking the bank.

I received the correct rod. I recommend looking at Penns website to cross reference the specs listed there with your purchase options on pennoutlet.com. For example if you're looking for the 30-80 bent butt boat rod like I purchased, you must choose the 2 piece rod. The single piece rod in the 30-80 is a conventional straight butt. I would have made the wrong choice without checking Penns specs.

BROKEN ROD all I have to say

I started with 30lb power pro braid and spoons, the 30lb was a bit much for this reel.

Currently testing 15lb lower grade line and 1/2 oz VuDu shrimp. Pretty good but will test with a 3/4 oz here soon.

I have it paired with a 7'6" rod -- medium action. Will add more as the season progresses.

This item came broken it was not in a box it was in thin plastic, it's a fishing pole 2 eyelets are broken and the reel handle is jammed, what the hell