I have one but use it mainly for soft plastics and jigs. I just wanted a reel that i could burn my bait back for another cast. A crankbait with a 7:1 ratio? That has to put a large bow in your rod and stress on your reel, doesn't it? Have you tried a 5:1 for that? How does the reel sound with a worm or jig? I know everyone has their own techniques and tackle preferences as i use a 4.7:1 for large crankbaits and a 5:1 for my smaller crankbaits. I purchased a 5:1 Citica at the same time as my Curado 7:1 and i love the Citica. For the money and quality i'll get another Citica! I'd like to know if you have a lemon, give us an update. Good Luck, Don