Gear ratio and spinnerbaits.

[tracker01]

Maybe this is a vague question, but here goes. I am starting to throw spinnerbaits for river smallies. The SB's range from 1/4oz. to 1/2oz. I plan on using a GLoomis baitcaster rod and reel. What do you recommend as the best gear ratio for these spinnerbaits?
Thanks.

[DavidSA]

I generally use a 6.3:1 and work them moderately fast. Sometimes I will go up to a 7:1 if I wanted to wake the blades. I could see an arguement for a 5:1 if one was slow rolling a 1oz blade off a ledge.

You should look for a reel that is more powerful for blades. I'd stay away from finesse reels and go with a Revo Premier, Chronarch D, Citica or something with some power so you don't wear yourself out.

[ecu daniel 14]

I agree, for smaller spinnerbaits id go somewhere in the middle 6's. However, for larger spinnerbaits I prefer a nice 5.0 Chronarch D5....

[Casca]

for me it would be the fastest possible. i like to churn and burn spinnerbaits,the faster the better. i could slow down if i need to when the fish want that.

[Nitroman77]

I use one of my type R+ which is 5.7.1 and it's perfect for blades..

[georgeweeber]

I like a 6.3:1

[Finnz922]

I like a 6.3:1

x2. 7.1 is a little fast for me.

[GARRIGA]

I'm looking to get a Crazy Cranker as I feel the lower gear ratios are best for the blades I throw. Using reels 7.1 or even mid range 6.1 are too tiering with 3/8 oz or bigger. I look at these like large crank baits that create much resistance and not suited for high gear ratios.

[Tokugawa]

For slow rolling I like the Zillion CC.

For "normal" spinnerbait use, I like a 5.8 or 6.3. I find the Sol/Alphas/Pixy type reels excel at 1/4 to 1/2 oz spinnerbait duty. So does a TD-Z. Just my opinion.

[tracker01]

For slow rolling I like the Zillion CC.

For "normal" spinnerbait use, I like a 5.8 or 6.3. I find the Sol/Alphas/Pixy type reels excel at 1/4 to 1/2 oz spinnerbait duty. So does a TD-Z. Just my opinion.

I am looking at a TD Sol (5:8.1) or a Curado 50e (6:4.1). I am letting the answers to my question guide me as to which reel I should consider. Soooooo Tokugawa, I will put you down in the Sol/Alphas/Pixy column, right?
Thanks for everyones help.

[brokeneye]

the 5.8.1 calais 100a makes for a great blade reel, as well.

[ecu daniel 14]

Given those 2 choices Id go with the SOL. Ive used a 50e and wasnt very pleased. The Chronarch is much better then the Curado.

[johnD]

5:0:1 Curado

[STETSON1B]

burning the blade = 7:1
normal= 6:3:1
SLOW roll = 5:4:1

[blaablaablaa]

Well considering you are fishing a river we should remember current. If I were fishing a river with a fair amount of flow I would step up to a 7.1, but if it is a fairly calm river 6.3 should cover most your needs. When I throw spinners at smallies I it is always under 1/2oz, and i only slow role them in early pre-spawn so I don't feel the need for a low geared reel.