Questions about a jigging reel's retrieval and gear ratio are settled the same way as any other reel question: by reading the listing. The reel listing states the reel's figures, and when the maker publishes both a gear ratio and a reference retrieve per handle turn, both figures come from the listing itself. The manufacturer's specifications, not invented formulas or general claims, define what a given reel was built for. This guide covers what a jigging reel listing states about these two figures and how to read them.
What a jigging reel listing states
A jigging reel listing states the reel's gear ratio, bearings, maximum drag, weight, and construction, and it may also state a reference retrieve per handle turn. Those stated figures describe the reel as built. When comparing reels, read the stated figures side by side rather than relying on general claims or calculations: what the listing states is the maker's own description of the product, and anything the listing leaves out should be settled with the maker rather than guessed.
An example: the Abyss Jigger Gen 1 listing
The GOOFISH Abyss Jigger Gen 1 jigging reel listing states both figures: a 6.08:1 gear ratio and a reference retrieve of approximately 30.06 inches per handle turn. The listing also states 9+2 stainless steel bearings, a 30 kg maximum drag, and a weight of approximately 544 g, in CNC-machined aluminum construction with a ball-style metal grip. Color options stated are Blue/Silver and Navy Blue/Gold, with separate left- and right-hand retrieve options. Those are the maker's stated figures for the product; the listing does not state further specifications, so ask the maker about anything else you need to know.
Reading the two figures together
The gear ratio and the reference retrieve per handle turn are two of the listing's stated figures, read side by side with the reel's other stated specifications. When a listing states only one of the two figures, or neither, settle the question with the maker rather than calculating or guessing. Our jigging reels collection lists the stated specifications for each reel, so reels can be compared from the makers' figures rather than from general rules.
Care per the maker
The listing's stated construction describes the materials the reel was built from, and the manufacturer's instructions are the authority on caring for it. Follow the maker's stated care instructions rather than general routines, and settle anything the listing leaves unclear with the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions
What should be read first when comparing jigging reels?
The maker's stated figures, such as the stated gear ratio, reference retrieve per handle turn, bearings, maximum drag, and weight. Those figures are the manufacturer's specification, and anything not stated should be confirmed with the maker.
What if a listing states only one of the two figures?
Settle the question with the maker rather than calculating or guessing, and use the maker's confirmed specification for the product.
Who is the authority on reel care?
The manufacturer. Follow the maker's stated care instructions for the reel's stated construction rather than general routines.
Specifications first
Questions about a jigging reel's retrieval and gear ratio, like any reel question, start with stated figures: what the reel listing states, read side by side. Compare the listings, follow the makers' guidance, and let the specifications settle anything unclear. That is the whole method.
