What does the gear ratio of a fishing reel indicate?

The gear ratio of a fishing reel indicates how many rotations the spool makes for each complete turn of the handle. This metric is crucial for understanding how quickly you can retrieve line and manage the effort required while reeling in a catch. A higher gear ratio means the spool rotates more times with each turn of the handle, allowing for faster line retrieval, while a lower ratio requires more effort but may provide greater torque for heavy fish.

Other options relate to different aspects of fishing equipment. The weight of the fishing line does not correlate to the gear ratio, as it pertains to the line's thickness or material rather than the mechanical advantage of the reel. Similarly, the length of the fishing rod is a separate characteristic that affects casting distances and handling but has nothing to do with gear ratios. Lastly, while the target fish can influence the choice of gear ratio, it does not define what the gear ratio itself measures. Understanding these distinctions can improve your efficiency in choosing the right gear for your fishing needs.