Introducing the new 2003 Quantum Energy PT reels with different gear ratios for your specific fishing techniques
 

Total Score: 8.36

Introduction: In March we tested the Energy PT(E600PT) that sports many Performance Tuned components.  Then later in July TackleTour had the opportunity to introduce a few of Quantum's new 2003 PT rods and reels.  Included were two brand new Energy PT reels that have lower gear ratios than their sibling, the E600PT.  Now to follow up we test the new E640PT and E650PT to see how well they perform for different applications. 
  

  
Impressions: The Quantum Energy PT... sure we all have seen it, but how do the new E640PT and E650PT compare to it?  Their physical dimensions are identical.  All three models of the Energy PT are same in size, shape, and weight.  But you will surely notice something quite different.  The metallic-silver shine has changed to a metallic-gold/bronze tone.  This new color scheme still retains the same awesome look the Energy PT has.

Two additions to the Energy PT series that will aid Anglers in their technique specific fishing styles.  The new lower gear ratios will provide us with exactly what we want on our fishing adventures 

As noted on these pre-release versions of the Energy PT, the E640PT has a gear ratio of 4.4:1 and the E650PT has a 5.1:1 ratio.  These new slower gear ratios will definitely bring joy to those anglers who have been drooling for a slower speed reel with similar attributes.

Lab Tests: Since the Energy PT E600PT was previously tested, the new reels were put under the same test procedures.  The free spooling was tested with the tension knob turned loose and the ACS II brake system turned to Free.  The spool spun freely and smoothly.  In the other areas such as the drag, the cranking, and the Continuous Anti-Reverse displayed the same performance as the E600PT.  The new Energy PT reels use the same components as before.  Thus there are no changes in the overall lab tests.

Note: To see the Energy PT's (E600PT) overall results click here.
  

  
Field Tests: The Energy PT reels are nearly identical in shape, components, feel, and more. Since the E650PT and E640PT are slower winding reels they are good for different fishing techniques.  I will now take the next step to show you a few ways you can apply these reels.

  
Working Soft Baits: When using soft baits I find that both the Energy PT E640PT and E650PT work really well, but each has unique merits.  When working the soft baits slowly, such as crawling a plastic worm or grub on the bottom, the E640PT is the top choice here.  The 4.4:1 gear ratio allows you to slowly move the plastic on the bottom while you're retrieving at a comfortable speed and slightly lifting your rod tip to produce additional action.  The slower reel allowed me to work one area more thoroughly and make sure I did everything to attract that bass until I got it to bite.  Most of the time while fishing on the bottom with plastics, people tend to reel too fast. Maybe it's patience, maybe it's the reel.  A reel with a smaller gear ratio will provide better assistance to you while fishing soft baits.  The technique is possible with the E600PT with a gear ratio of 6.2:1, but you would have to wind at worm-speeds which isn't too comfortable in an all day fishing trip.  Plus the higher speed reel wouldn't allow you to work the rod and reel as efficient as the E640PT matched with your favorite rod for plastics.

The new Energy PT's 4.4:1 winding ratio brings soft bait fishing to a new level.  Slow retrieves are the key to fishing plastics in the winter months

When nature calls for a faster reel for working plastics, the Quantum E650PT comes in handy.  The E640PT can be used, but you would have to crank fast to get it at the right speeds.  It's best when you can retrieve at a constant speed you're comfortable at.  The 5.1:1 gear ratio in the E650PT allows you to work a swimming grub, soft plastic jerkbaits, and other plastics where you want to swim rather than crawl.  The speed of the Quantum Energy PT E650PT fits this technique well because it's not too fast nor too slow like it's siblings in the Energy PT series.
  
Fishing Reaction Baits: Reaction baits... just like any other lures, there are so many and so many different fishing techniques.  For these baits the Quantum E640PT wouldn't fall in this category because most Anglers prefer to use a gear ratio faster than 4.4:1.  The Energy PT E650PT would be a good choice for most reactions baits such as spinnerbaits and crankbaits, but not jerkbaits.  When using spinnerbaits with the E650PT, its gear ratio allows you to either slow-roll the spinnerbait during cold winter days, or retrieve at a faster pace to fish the bait mid to top water.  

The 5.1:1 gear ratio in the E650PT allows an Angler to retrieve either faster or slower.  That's why many people prefer a winding ratio that's mid-range for most of their applications

The Quantum Energy PT with a gear ratio of 5.1:1 would be considered as an all general purpose reel by many Anglers because speed wise it's in the mid-range... they can crank faster or slower.  This speed is preferred by many when fishing crankbaits because when retrieving at a steady comfortable pace they are able to apply the right amount of force on the lure through the reel to produce the right action.  When the feel is right, you're likely to be more confident which leads to landing more fish during each trip.

While Striper fishing I found that the 5.1:1 gear ratio to be too slow when using jerkbaits.  I opted for the original Energy PT with a gear ratio of 6.18:1 because the quicker movements from the lure would generate more hits than anything else.
  

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