How To Read Gear Ratio On Fishing Reel
How To Read Gear Ratio On Fishing Reel
What Is Gear Ratio?
Gear ratio is a term used to describe the relationship between the number of times a fishing reel's spool spins in comparison to the number of times the handle is turned. In some instances, the spool of the fishing reel will spin multiple times for every crank of the handle. For example, a gear ratio of 6.3:1 means that the spool will spin 6.3 times for every full rotation of the handle. Generally speaking, the higher the gear ratio, the faster the reel can retrieve line.
Understanding Gear Ratio
When understanding gear ratio, it's important to remember that the number before the colon represents the number of times the spool will spin for every full rotation of the handle. The number after the colon represents the number of times the handle must be turned for the spool to make one full rotation. Therefore, a gear ratio of 6.3:1 means that the spool will spin 6.3 times for every full rotation of the handle.
Slow Gear Ratio Reels
Reels with a low gear ratio, such as a 4.9:1, are ideal for fishing in slow moving bodies of water. Low gear ratio reels are also remarkable for fishing slow-moving baits such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and jerkbaits. Slow gear ratio reels are also beneficial for fishing deep water and in situations where you need to get the bait to the bottom quickly.
Fast Gear Ratio Reels
In contrast, reels with a high gear ratio, such as a 7.3:1, are ideal for fishing in faster moving bodies of water. High gear ratio reels are remarkable for fishing fast-moving baits such as topwater plugs and swimbaits. Fast gear ratio reels are also beneficial for fishing shallow water and in situations where you need to retrieve the bait quickly.
Choosing The Right Gear Ratio
Ultimately, choosing the right gear ratio for your fishing reel will depend on the type of water you're fishing in and the type of bait you're using. If you're fishing a slow moving body of water, you'll want to choose a reel with a low gear ratio. For example, a 4.9:1 reel. On the other hand, if you're fishing a fast moving body of water, you'll want to choose a reel with a high gear ratio. For example, a 7.3:1 reel.
Conclusion
Gear ratio is an important term to understand when fishing with a reel. It's important to remember that the number before the colon represents the number of times the spool will spin for every full rotation of the handle. The number after the colon represents the number of times the handle must be turned for the spool to make one full rotation. Ultimately, the right gear ratio will depend on the type of water you're fishing in and the type of bait you're using.
