I don’t like the reel because I cannot get the speed I like when retrieving the larger lures. I like to really burn the larger lures and this reel makes me bust my butt to get the lure action that I like. Pro: It is a really great reel. It has the larger lure starting from the first crank and its performance makes it easy to throw those big boys. Here is my take on the Reel: I too found that the reel gave me good lure performance when I used it with the larger lures. I did not feel that the retrieve ratio was too slow and the reel was certainly a consistent performer. The drag system and brake system were consistently predictable and the weight of the reel was comparable to the 5500 and 6500 Abu Garcia reels. I also discovered an additional advantage while using the reel. As many of you know, I like to use surface lures a lot. Almost all surface lures are better when retrieved at a slower pace which seems to entice a Musky strike. There are many times when I have to apply a little self-discipline and slow my retrieve down when using a 5.3:1 or 6.4:1 reel. I found that if I use the Winch with surface lures like creepers, flap tails and hawg wobblers, I got better lure action. I also found that when I used the Winch when throwing a water thumper or Ry-Lure, I did not have the problem of ‘lure roll’ that is a side effect of too fast of a retrieve. I even found that I liked the slower retrieve with a tally wacker.
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