Is it really important to have a fast gear ratio (7.0:1) when workin thick cover\slop?  I know it will get them out quicker but should I get a reel just for this,  will it make that big of a diference?  what other uses would a high ratio like that be good for?

It 's really important to have a reel that picks up slack line fast when fishing baits where you need to pick up the line slack fast like worms, jigs, poppers, walk the dog type, jerkbaits ( soft or hard ), or with baits that need to be reeled in fast like buzzbaits regardless if the cover is heavy or not.

Winch power of a 5:1 for heavy cover to be able to pull fish out.

Higher ratio for moving baits.

Any other suggestions, guys???  

I think fast reels are "universal".

Low gear ratios are for deep running crankbaits and heavy

lures (swimbaits?).

8-)

I don't think its necessary but it will help, I think if you have a 6.3:1 you should be fine, but it does help a little to have a fast ratio.

I think having a longer, heavy power rod is more important for fishing heavy cover than a fast reel.  A longer rod allows you to set the hook and lift the fish from cover in motion.  Since you're usually fishing close, reeling in rarely comes into play.

I think having a longer, heavy power rod is more important for fishing heavy cover than a fast reel. A longer rod allows you to set the hook and lift the fish from cover in motion. Since you're usually fishing close, reeling in rarely comes into play.

I got 7 1/2' dobyns flippin stick, just wasnt sure if i should change the reel out for a faster ratio (currently a Revo STX 6.4:1)

Have you ever felt like 6.4:1 wasn't fast enough?  15 years ago, 5:1 was "Super High Speed."  My first reels were like 3:1, LOL.  I could see 7:! or faster being useful for toads, or other baits you burn across the surface, but not jigs or t-rig worms and creatures.

No i never felt like it wasnt fast enough...I guess im just watching too many fishing shows....Hearing pros say things like "your gonna want that high gear ratio like im using 7.? to pull these fish out of here fast...."

Guess i wont worry about it...Thanks for the input guys

You already have the perfect reel on there man! I use a Shimano Crucial flippin' stick and a Revo STX HS for the "slop".

I wouldn't buy anything in particular for it, but I do like a 7.0:1 for the slop.