What Do Gear Ratios Mean On Fishing Reels
What Do Gear Ratios Mean On Fishing Reels?
Fishing reels can come with a variety of features, and one of those features is the gear ratio. Many anglers aren’t sure what the gear ratio means or how it affects their fishing. Gear ratios measure how many revolutions of the handle it takes to make the reel spool turn once. In other words, the gear ratio measures how fast the reel can retrieve line.
Types of Gear Ratios
The most common gear ratios for fishing reels are 5:1, 6:1, 7:1, and 8:1. The higher the gear ratio, the faster the retrieve. A 5:1 gear ratio means the spool will turn five times for every one full turn of the handle. A 6:1 gear ratio means the spool will turn six times for every one full turn of the handle and so on.
What Gear Ratio Do I Need?
The gear ratio you need depends on the type of fishing you’re doing. For example, if you’re fishing a shallow water flat, you may want to use a 5:1 gear ratio. This slow retrieve will allow you to work your bait or lure more methodically and will help you cover more water. If you’re fishing deeper waters, you may want to use a 6:1 gear ratio, which will allow you to retrieve your bait or lure faster and more efficiently.
Benefits of Different Gear Ratios
Each gear ratio has its own benefits, so it’s important to understand what each gear ratio can offer. A 5:1 gear ratio is great for slow trolling, bottom fishing, or bait fishing. It will give you more control over your bait or lure and will help you work the water more methodically. A 6:1 gear ratio is great for deep water fishing and will help you retrieve your bait or lure quickly and efficiently. A 7:1 gear ratio is great for retrieving lightweight lures and casting them farther. And an 8:1 gear ratio is great for retrieving heavier lures and pulling them quickly out of cover.
Choosing the Right Gear Ratio
When choosing the right gear ratio for your reel, it’s important to consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing. If you’re fishing in shallow water, a 5:1 gear ratio may be a better option. If you’re fishing in deeper water, a 6:1 gear ratio may be a better option. If you’re fishing with lightweight lures, a 7:1 gear ratio may be a better option. And if you’re fishing with heavier lures, an 8:1 gear ratio may be a better option.
Conclusion
Understanding gear ratios is important if you want to get the most out of your fishing reel. The gear ratio you choose should depend on the type of fishing you’re doing and the type of bait or lure you’re using. The higher the gear ratio, the faster the retrieve. A 5:1 gear ratio is great for slow trolling or bait fishing, a 6:1 gear ratio is great for deep water fishing, a 7:1 gear ratio is great for retrieving lightweight lures, and an 8:1 gear ratio is great for retrieving heavier lures. Knowing the gear ratio of your reel will help you maximize your fishing success.
