Looking at getting a new spinning reel for my custom rod. I will be using it primarily for smaller crankbaits. Would it be better to find something like 6.2:1 so I can slow down my retrieve if needed? Or is better to just get like a 5.2:1? 

 

I plan on using small lipless, Frittsides, Original Floating Rapalas, Strike King Bitsy, etc, etc. Tight lines!

What size reel are you looking for? A 5.2 4000 size could be as fast as a 6.2 2000 size. I'd look at the IPT instead. 

12 minutes ago, newapti5 said:

What size reel are you looking for? A 5.2 4000 size could be as fast as a 6.2 2000 size. I'd look at the IPT instead. 

Guess I should have mentioned that. Looking at a 2000 size possibly 2500. Don't want bigger than that though. Any thoughts on what IPT I should be looking for? I think most of the reels I've been eyeing up start at like 26"

For 20~25 size, I'd go with a faster gear ratio like 6.2. In my experience, it's easier to slow down the retrieve on spinning reels than to speed up. A 2000 size Tatula 6.2 can achieve a 32" IPT. 

The original Daiwa TD SS1300 is the only spinning I know of with 26 IPT/ 5.1 gear ratio. Retro reel, not a light weight but bullet proof and very smooth retrieving reel, $109.

Tom

23 minutes ago, WRB said:

The original Daiwa TD SS1300 is the only spinning I know of with 26 IPT/ 5.1 gear ratio. Retro reel, not a light weight but bullet proof and very smooth retrieving reel, $109.

Tom

Not a 5.1, but close - Mitchell Avocet RZT-2000. 5.4:1, 25.0 IPT, 8.68oz...line roller has a bearing, so braid compatible.

 

Yes, I have one, it's on an Okuma Celio L/MF for panfishing.

15 hours ago, newapti5 said:

For 20~25 size, I'd go with a faster gear ratio like 6.2. In my experience, it's easier to slow down the retrieve on spinning reels than to speed up. A 2000 size Tatula 6.2 can achieve a 32" IPT. 

I agree with this 100%. It’s way easier to slow down the retrieve on a spinning reel than to speed up. 

I think I mostly use 6.2 and love fishing small cranks on spinning gear. Spinning reels are slower than most bait casters so it works great. Small cranks after dark in shallow water is one of the most productive fishing options on our lake in the summer. 

Slower in gear ratio, but often higher in I.P.T. due to the large size of the spool arbor.

 

16 minutes ago, Heartland said:

Slower in gear ratio, but often higher in I.P.T. due to the large size of the spool arbor.

 

Exactly - my pair of President XT-30s and my Supreme 30 are all 6.2:1. On a BC that would be 24-IPT or less...these all run 31-IPT - same as my President XT BC 7.3:1 and just under the 32-IPT of my Patriarch 7.9:1