Just like the gears on a bicycle or vehicle, reels offer a variety of gear options that suit different fishing techniques. Although two reels look alike, different gear ratios – what’s in the “guts” – will make a big difference in how each reel applies to different fishing techniques.

Mercury Marine Pro Team member Stephen Browning explains why you don’t want to overpower your bait with an incorrect gear ratio. He also shows us which Lew’s reel he reaches for when he’s throwing some of his go-to baits, including a crankbait, a worm, and a bladed jig.