Is a 2 speed reel needed

No, they are not required but they sure can make crankin' in that monster much easier. They also are a huge help if you bring along children or the wife. I have a mixed bag of single speeds as well as 2 speed reels and normally pull the "tried and true" lures on my 2 speeds. I'll put it this way, every future Penn Int. I purchase will be a 2 spd. They are worth the extra $$ IMO.

Thanks thats what i figured.

I just use one and thats for the shotgun rig. depending on how far back and how much stuff im pullin it can make life much easier.