I bought a new reel this winter but I'm wondering if I should exchange it.  It is a 6:3 ratio but I think I'm going to use it on a St. Croix crankbait rod.  Should I get a 5:2 instead?  

Thanks

Are youusing this for deep diving cranks or shallow cranks?  I use a 5:0 for shallow and deep, if you are using it for deep cranks i definitely would go with a 5:0 or lower or if this rod is going to be used for shallow and deep cranks.

I think 6.3:1 is much more versatile. If you were using the real for deep crankbaits only (technique specific) then I would opt for the lower gear ratio.

If this set up is strictly for crankbaits (shallow, mid and deep), then I would opt for the slower ratio reel.

If that is all you are going to use the reel for, get the 5.2:1. If you want to use for other applications also keep it but just retrieve your crankbaits  slower.

I mainly use Wiggle Warts, Strike King's up to Series 5 and Deep Little N Normans - I don't use them much in anything deeper than 12' or so.

What ratios are used when throwing jerkbaits?

For the conditions you mentioned I would keep the 6.3:1.

Falcon

This is my preference:

Deep cranks- 4.7:1

Shallow to Med cranks- 5:1

Jerkbaits- 6.2:1 or faster...................Al

For the type of cranking you are describing, the 6.3:1 will do fine. Keep it, esp. if you are going to throw jerkbaits with it.

Stay with the 6.3:1