Gear ratio, explained in plain English

What the numbers mean

On a 7.2:1 reel, one full turn of the handle spins the spool 7.2 times. On an 8.1:1 reel, it spins 8.1 times. More spins means more line comes back with every turn of the handle.

Some reels also list inches per turn, or IPT: how much line one turn of the handle brings in. It depends on the gear ratio and the size of the spool, so it's the better number when you compare two reels. Roughly:

The exact numbers vary from reel to reel. Use them as a guide.

Low gear (5:1 to 6:1): power

A low gear brings line in slower, but each turn takes less effort. It shines with lures that pull hard against the water:

• Deep-diving crankbaits
• Big swimbaits and big spinnerbaits
• Anything you want to crawl slowly along the bottom

Medium gear (7:1): the all-rounder

Fast enough to pick up slack line, slow enough for moving baits. Spinnerbaits, shallow crankbaits, bladed jigs, swimbaits, even worms. If you're going to own one baitcaster, this is the safe pick.

The Obalus Cast Master Pro is 7.3:1.

High gear (8:1 and up): speed

A fast reel picks up line in a hurry. That matters when:

• You fish a worm, a jig or a Texas rig, and the bite comes on slack line. You need to reel down fast to set the hook.
• A fish runs toward you and you have to catch up to keep the line tight.
• You fish frogs in thick grass and need to get the fish's head up and out of the weeds.
• You make long casts and want the lure back quickly so you can cast again.

The Obalus Baitcast Reel is 8.1:1.

Can a fast reel fish slow? Yes

You can always turn a fast reel's handle slowly. You can't turn a slow reel fast enough to catch up. Plenty of anglers fish crankbaits on an 8:1 reel and simply turn the handle slower. Where a low gear really helps is with lures that pull hard: each turn is easier on your wrist over a long day.

So which one?

Got two rods? A lot of anglers keep a 7:1 on one and an 8:1 on the other, and switch rods instead of retying.