High Speed Reel?

[MSPbass]

If a reel comes in both 6.4 and 7.1:1, is there a reason I shouldn't go with the high speed?

I guess I was thinking I could always turn the handle slower, but couldn't change the gear ratio. But I'm not so sure that's the way I should look at it. The new reel will primarily be used for worms and plastics. I'm not much of a buzz bait user either.

Thanks!

[muskyxl]

i wouldnt say its an all-round reel.

but i use mine for both cranks and spinner baits...when ripp'n em is the ticket.

[David P]

Only time I wouldn't get a high speed is for slow rolling spinnerbaits and crankbaits.

If this rod is for anything but that, I'd say go high speed!

I have 2 high speed Revo STXs, and will be getting more when I can.

For frogs, jigs, plastics that you leave slack line in sometimes, they're just awesome.

[hawgchaser]

I have a tendency to fish to fast as it is. I always have to tell myself to slow it down. Therefore I don't have any of the high speed reels. BUT I will eventually get one or two.

[Big Tom]

I have a high speed reel and I really don't care either way about it.  I like that I can get my bait back fast but sometimes the fast retrieves cause my baits to spin which eventually leads to really annoying line twist.  

[djmax22]

I use my high speed for these applications. Frogs/jigs in heavy cover, lipless cranks, and spinnerbaits/buzzbaits.

[pk]

I've got a High Speed Revo SX and Revo STX.  I use them mostly for jigs and soft plastics.  A lot of the times I'm not working these baits the full distance of a cast and it helps to be able to reel the bait back in quicker to make another cast.  Mostly I like the high speed because I have total control of the slack line when pulling jigs and plastics with the rod.   I've used the High Speed reels for everything though and although they aren't my ideal speed for crankbaits they do work, all you gotta do is just slow down your retrieve.

[Catt]

If a reel comes in both 6.4 and 7.1:1, is there a reason I shouldn't go with the high speed?

#1 reason most people don't consistently catch is they are fishing to fast  

[MSPbass]

Thanks for the help all.

I was weary of the high speed gearing, but I'm a little surprised by the advise here. I expected more pros than cons. This was informative and very helpful. It's good to learn they work well for frogs. Maybe someday I'll get a dedicated froggin' rig, but for now, I think I'm going to pass. Which means I can order a new Patriarch today!

[David P]

I think that a lot of guys hear "High Speed" and think Fishing Fast.

I don't fish fast at all, yet use High speed reels. I use them to pick up slack line quickly on a hook set.  I've noticed a world of difference from when I wasn't using high speed reels. The hook set is better, and less fish lost.

It's easier to slow down and reel slowly with a High Speed, then it is to reel fast with a normal geared reel.

I probably will never purchase another 6:1 again. 5:1 and 7:1 only.