Explain Gear Ratio On Fishing Reels
Explain Gear Ratio on Fishing Reels
Fishing reels are a crucial part of the fishing process. Choosing the right type of reel, and understanding the gear ratio can make a huge difference in your success. To understand the gear ratio, it is important to understand what it is, and the advantages it can bring to anglers when used properly.
What is Gear Ratio?
Gear ratio is the number of turns the spool makes as the handle turns once. For example, a reel with a 6.3:1 gear ratio means that the spool rotates 6.3 times for every turn of the handle. The higher the number, the faster the spool will rotate. This is important because it affects the speed at which you can reel in the line.
Types of Gear Ratio
Gear ratio is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the type of fishing you are doing, you will want to choose a different gear ratio. Generally, there are three types of gear ratios: high speed, medium speed and low speed.
High Speed
High speed reels typically have a gear ratio of 5.2:1 or higher. This is the fastest gear ratio and is best for catching fast moving fish, like bass or walleye. With a high speed reel, you can quickly and easily bring in the line. It is also great for quickly retrieving lures or bait.
Medium Speed
Medium speed reels have a gear ratio of 4.1:1 to 4.9:1. This is a good all-purpose gear ratio that is great for a variety of fishing applications. It is fast enough for retrieving lures or bait, but slow enough for catching slower moving fish, like trout or catfish.
Low Speed
Low speed reels have a gear ratio of 3.5:1 or lower. These are best for fishing in shallow water, or when using live bait. The slower speed allows you to easily work lures or bait, and it is easier to feel the bite of the fish. Low speed reels are also great for trolling, as they can help to keep the bait in the water longer.
Conclusion
Gear ratio is an important factor to consider when choosing a fishing reel. It affects the speed at which you can reel in the line, and can make a big difference in your success. High speed reels are best for faster moving fish, medium speed reels are great for a variety of applications, and low speed reels are best for shallow water and live bait. Understanding gear ratio and choosing the right reel for the job can help you to become a better angler.
