When it comes to using a star drag reel for bottom fishing, is it better to have a high speed or low speed reel. Have been comparing the Daiwa Saltist 6.1 against the Penn Fathom 4.3. Any opinions.

Low speed is you are fishing very deep. If you need more than a pound or so of lead to get down, a high speed reel with make cranking too hard. I like about 4:1 for fishingAlaskan halibut.

Low speed is the only way to go when bringing up a large lings or rock-fish. To me, this is where the 2-speed reels shine if you can stretch your budget.