How often should I service my fishing reel?

Freshwater-only reels should be serviced annually — clean and re-lube bearings, check drag washers, inspect bail spring. Saltwater reels need rinsing after every trip with fresh water and full service every 6 months. Neglecting reel maintenance is the number one cause of premature reel failure.

What gear ratio should I choose for my reel?

Standard (5.5-6.2:1) for all-around use and crankbaits. High-speed (7.0-8.1:1) for burning lures back quickly and techniques requiring fast line pickup like flipping. Low-speed (4.5-5.2:1) for deep cranking and heavy-resistance retrieves. A 6.0-6.2:1 ratio is the most versatile for one-reel anglers.

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