I assume these high gear ratios are mostly born out of the pimping done on the fishing shows?

That's what people want now
Same with many other things
Can't buy a truck anymore with a vinyl bench
seat and a rubber floor mat instead of carpeting,
or manual roll up windows, etc.

Helps to quickly get a fish out of thick cover.

Also helps get the bait back to you quicker for the next cast. I bought one to try for my jig rod and it seems to work well for that purpose.

I haven’t noticed a reduction in torque as some have warned.

No they’re used to get the fish moving quicker and to not let the fish have a chance to turn its head

To the OP:

You hit right on the head, buddy.

Sounds like it is working.