What is gear ratio? The term gear ratio, or 'gear ratio' in English, is a value that indicates how many turns the reel’s spool makes per crank. A normal gear ratio is around 5.0:1 and up, meaning the spool rotates five times per crank. A high gear ratio, 'high speed,' is typically around 6.5:1, meaning 6.5 rotations per crank. Such a reel can be useful, for example, when fishing for sea trout on the coast, as trout often like a bit of speed on the lure.
Are you a beginner and want better control over the lure you’ve cast? Use a reel with a slightly lower gear ratio, around 5.0:1.