I notice a lot of options on gear ratios. How do I select a good “universal” ratio. I am not a hardcore tournament fisherman, just like bass fishing when I get a chance, 1 or 2x a month in the summer. Primarily throw crank bait, top water, buzz bait or a worm.

Doesn’t matter too much, as long as you don’t go super slow. Maybe a 7.5:1 or around there.

Most of mine are 7.5:1. I have a couple 6.8:1 for crankbaits. As already said, I doubt it makes much difference with modern reels.

I have 10 bait caster's, had to go look. Haven't a clue the ratio on any one of them! I think that's just one more thing to worry about that's not really worth worrying about. I've caught fish on every one of them without worrying myself over the retrieve ratio!

If you are not throwing the 20 foot running crank baits I would go 6.4 or 7.5-1 if you include the deep running crank baits go 5.0-1 ratio.

6:1 or 5.3 -ish will be pretty versatile from reaction baits to dead stick.