Ratio Relevance: Gear Mechanics and Options Explained
For those who may have wondered “What do those numbers on the side of my reel mean?”
Gear ratios play a pivotal role in the performance of fishing reels. Whether you’re using a spinning reel or a baitcasting reel, understanding how they affect your fishing experience can make all the difference in your success on the water.
What is a Gear Ratio?
A gear ratio in fishing reels refers to the number of times the spool rotates for each complete turn of the reel handle. For example, a 6.4:1 gear ratio means that for every turn of the handle, the spool turns 6.4 times. This simple figure can have a significant impact on your fishing technique and how the reel performs. With a higher or lower gear ratio, retrieve speed of a bait can be influence dramatically.
An Abu Garcia Revo Winch has a gear ratio of 5.4:1, bringing in only 22” of line per turn of the reel handle. Compare that to the Revo SX Rocket, boasting a 9:1 ratio and 37” of bait movement per turn. Without acknowledging these mechanical details, the bait or presentation may not be fished as expected without retrieve adjustment.
Power vs. Speed: Understanding the two primary factors—power and speed—is key to selecting the right reel for your needs.
Speed: A reel with a higher gear ratio (e.g., 7.1:1) is faster. This means the spool retrieves more line with each turn of the handle. These models are ideal for techniques requiring quick retrieval, and shine when fishing in areas with fast currents or with bait retrieves that throw off excess slack line.
Something to consider- When using a fast reel, like a hyperspeed 9:1, might seem great when it comes to speed, but fails when it comes to offering initial drag power to turn the fish and bring them in. Professional bass angler, Ish Monroe, compares selecting the proper gear ratio to riding a mountain bike. “If you were riding a bike up hill, you would want it in a lower gear to maintain consistent power. If you were to go uphill in a higher gear, you would have to over-pedal and work harder. The same goes for your fishing reels. It is a great thing to speed lighting on the retrieve, but those reels will not have the gear power to apply serious torque and turn the fish.
Power: A reel with a lower gear ratio (e.g., 4.8:1) provides more power. This means the spool retrieves less line per turn of the handle but offers more torque. This is ideal for techniques where you need more control and strength, like deep-water fishing or when battling larger fish. Lower gear ratio reels hold up to the test of time after heavy use casting large baits, too.
When selecting a reel ask yourself “Am I looking for speed? Power? Or a little bit of both?”
““It is easier to retrieve a fast reel slower than it is to retrieve a slow reel faster”
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A medium speed reel, like the Abu Garcia Zata (6.2:1), is versatile for a multitude of fishing methods.
How Gear Design Affects Performance:
The design and materials used in the gears of a reel can significantly impact its performance. The precision of the gear teeth, the material used for the gears, and the construction of the reel all influence its durability, smoothness, and overall efficiency.
Precision Gears: High-quality reels often use precision-machined gears for smooth operation, reducing friction and improving casting distance. Reels made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber, help maintain the strength and longevity of the gears while reducing the overall weight of the reel.
Spinning Reels vs. Baitcasting Reels: While both spinning reels and baitcasting reels come in various gear ratios, they differ in their design and intended use:
Spinning Reels: These reels are generally easier to use, especially for beginners. They tend to have low to high gear ratios (e.g., 5:1- 7:1), which makes them ideal for just about any fishing presentation or retrieve.
Baitcasting Reels: Conventional or low-profile baitcasting reels are more specialized, providing greater accuracy and control, especially with heavier baits. These reels perform on greater ends of the speed spectrum from lower (4.6:1) and higher performance hyper speed reels (9:1). The Abu Garcia Revo SX series, for instance, offers a variety of gear ratios designed for power and precision.
Left photo courtesy of Abu Garcia and Pure Fishing.
Comparing two ends of the speed spectrum, the Abu Garcia Revo Rocket (left) offers a super speed of 10.1:1 brings in 41” per turn with 18Lbs of available maximum drag. The Penn Squall II Level Wind (Right) boasts a 4.9:1 gear ratio and offers 33Lbs of maximum drag. Both are awesome reels, just respectively designed to carryout different duties, balancing need for speed vs power.
It is about finding a balanace of speed and power to maximize efficency
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It is about finding a balanace of speed and power to maximize efficency 〰️
Choosing the Right Gear Ratio: When choosing between different gear ratios, consider the type of fishing you'll be doing:
Hyperspeed Gear ratio: (9:1+): Special scenarios, like flippin’ or pitchin’ vegetation for bass. The focus of these high caliber reels are applied in instances where speed is a priority over fighting power.
Fast Gear Ratios (7.1:1 -8:1) Great for when you need to retrieve baits quickly.
Medium Gear Ratios (6:1 - 7:1): A balance of speed and power, ideal for most general fishing techniques.
Low Gear Ratios (4.8:1 – 5.5:1): Provide more power, ideal for fighting larger fish or fishing in deeper waters.
The gear ratio of a reel is a critical factor in determining how it performs. Whether you’re looking for speed, power, or a balance of both, understanding gear ratios will help you make an informed choice. Reel models like the Pflueger President/Supreme series and Abu Garcia Revo series are great examples of high-quality, For larger needs of the Great Lakes or thrill of the saltwarer, Penn is also highly recommended amongst captains and professionals worldwide. Performance-driven products that offer a range of gear proportions to suit various fishing styles. Choose thoughtfully, and you will be on your way to a more successful fishing experience.
