Crankbait Reel Recommendations

[Rangerman]

Looking for crankbait reel recommendations, in particular I am trying to decide which gear ratio to buy? 5.0:1? 6.3:1? I already have a crankbait reel which is 5.1:1 and like it but question whether my next one should be a 6.3:1. I plan to throw med to heavy crankbaits and mybe an occasional rattle trap.

[Rangerman]

Thanks guys. I am going with the 5.0:1 gear ratio.

[FishR8]

I can see getting the 6.3:1 for use with a trap but not for the crankbaits. I have tried to use a high gear ratio with my crankbaits but it is hard to maintain a slow speed. You don't realize that you are reeling it in so fast compared to the 5.0:1

[fishboy]

I use the old lews 4 to 1 ratio reel///If it's good enough for David Fritz, it's good enough for me. That's all he used back in the day when he was really in the money.

Happy Fishin'
Leave your Mark...Not a Stain!

[mhall]

The old Lew's Speed Spool BB1N is probably one of the best crankin reels ever made, IMHO.

[Chubminnow]

They have a 7:1 ratio out now that is good for cranking...if money is an object I'd go with the 6.3:1 if I were you. I have 6.3's and they pretty much serve the purpose for just about all the fishing I do, whether it be crank baits, spinner's, spoons or what ever. Some of the tournament guys might disagree with me on this though...Good luck!

[getthanet]

Bass Pro Shops has a David Fritts 4.3:1 model out for about $50..It is smooth casting and very well put together....I would recommend a 4.3 or 5:1 ratio due to the bait staying in the strike zone longer on a slower speed reel...Also reeling a slower reel all day will cause less fatigue on the fisherman...I throw an old lew's and the new BPS David Fritts...I throw everything from a dd22 to a shallow runner with these...Both good reeels with medium price ranges...