Since 1980, Abel Reels has been producing some of the best quality fly reels around. Loved by top guides and fishers all over the world, Abel offers quality, performance, and intelligent design. What’s more, every single reel is manufactured in Colorado, USA, to the standard you’d expect.
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Best TechnologyVAYA Series |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Best LightweightAbel TR |
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 | Best For TroutModel SDF |
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 | Best SaltwaterModel SDS |
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 | Best DurabilitySuper Series |
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Abel Fly Reels
Here are all the reel models that are currently available. From saltwater to freshwater reels, Abel produces every sort of reel you could ever need.
If there’s a particular reel you’re interested in, you can shop online or visit your nearest shop that sells Abel. Check here to find your local shop/Abel dealer. Most online retailers also offer free shipping, so in most cases, you won’t have to factor shipping into the price if you buy online.
VAYA Series
Vaya Series Specs:
| Available Size: 4 – 8 | Overall Weight: 5.16 – 5.45oz |
| Arbor Size: Large | Material: Machined Aluminum |
| Spool Diameter: 3.36 – 3.88in | Colors: – Black |
| Spool Capacity: 4 + 100 20# 5+ 85 20#, 5+100 20# 6+80 20#, 7+ 150 20# 8+ 125 20# | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Disc | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Check Trident Fly Fishing Price
Available Sizes
- 3/4
- 5/6
- 7/8
Description
The VAYA is a work of art, anodized by hand with a stunning pattern. The VAYA Series boast a large spool, dual-pawl drag engagement design, and a stainless/carbon multi-disk drag system. When it comes to technology, design, and aesthetics, the VAYA series by Abel are second to none.
The Vaya is suitable for trout fishing, as well as smaller saltwater fish. These lightweight but sturdy Abel are more than worth the mid-range price of $495. You can buy the VAYA in sizes 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8.
Abel TR
Abel TR Specs:
| Available Size: 2/3, 4/5, 5/6 | Overall Weight: 4.19 – 5.19oz |
| Arbor Size: Large | Material: Machined Aluminum |
| Spool Diameter: 3.06 – 3.68in | Colors: – Black |
| Spool Capacity: 2+65 #20, 4+85 #20, 5+ 110 20# | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Click-Pawl | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Check Trident Fly Fishing Price
Available Sizes
- 2/3
- 4/5
- 5/6
Description
The Abel TR is a classic product from Abel, now re-released with some modern twists. The redesigned Abel TR looks edgy, is lighter than ever, with the iconic partial porting of Abel rods. Not a single detail has been missed on the Abel TR, right down to the machined silhouettes of stoneflies, mayflies, and caddisflies on the inner frame.
The larger spool means that you get less line memory and a faster retrieve, while the integrated spool clicker eliminates the need for an external counterweight. The TR is constructed and finished with careful attention to detail.
Model SDF
Model SDF Specs:
| Available Size: 4/5, 5/6, 6/7 | Overall Weight: 5.02 – 5.63oz |
| Arbor Size: Large | Material: 6061-T651 Cold Finished Machined Aluminum |
| Spool Diameter: 3.26 – 3.76in | Colors: Multi |
| Spool Capacity: 4 + 90 #20, 5 + 125 #20, 6 + 165 #20 | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Disc | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Check Trident Fly Fishing Price
Available Sizes
- 4/5
- 5/6
- 6/7
Description
The SDF (Sealed Drag Fresh) is an awesome machined for chasing trout, bass, and more. It performs exceptionally out on the water, with hardly any startup inertia, and a fantastic drag system of carbon fluoropolymer and stainless steel. You can adjust the drag more easily and with a broader range than before, from zero up to a whopping 10 pounds of pressure.
As with almost all Abel reels, it has the standard large arbor, which aids line retrieval and reduces your line memory. The SDF is constructed by experts in Colorado, among the best trout waters. So it’s not hard to see why this reel stands out so much!
If you’ve been looking for the best sort of freshwater reel, check out the SDF by Abel. You can shop online (with shipping included in the price) or find your nearest fly shop to check out the Model SDF in person.
Model SDS
Model SDS Specs:
| Available Size: 7/8, 9/10, 11/12 | Overall Weight: 9.07 – 9.95oz |
| Arbor Size: Large | Material: 6061-T651 Cold Finished Machined Aluminum |
| Spool Diameter: 3.86 – 4.84in | Colors: Multi |
| Spool Capacity: 7 260 + #20, 9 + 250 20#, 11 + 285 + 30# | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Disc | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Check Trident Fly Fishing Price
Available Sizes
- 7/8
- 9/10
- 11/12
Description
The SDS is Abel’s saltwater-specific product, designed to withstand the harsh, corrosive conditions of the sea. So if you’ve been on the search for a reel that can handle fishing off-shore, the SDS is the reel for you!
With a buttery smooth drag and all the power you need for big saltwater gamefish, this reel does not disappoint. In fact, it’s won many awards and is well worth the price, which starts at $895.
Equipped with a fully-sealed multi-disc drag system, large arbor, and quick-change spool, the SDS by Abel is exactly what you need. Shop online for the SDS, or if you wan’t wait for the shipping time, find your nearest Abel dealer/shop instead!
Super Series
Super Series Specs:
| Available Size: 4/5, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 12 | Overall Weight: 5.42 – 10.06oz |
| Arbor Size: Large | Material: 6061-T651 cold finished Aerospace grade aluminum |
| Spool Diameter: 3.3 – 4.7in | Colors: – |
| Spool Capacity: 4 + 100 20#, 6 + 80 20#, 5 + 115 20#, 6 + 95 20#, 7 + 220 20#, 8 + 200 20#, 9 + 300 20#, 10 + 250 20#, 11 + 285 30#, 12 + 250 30#, 11 + 285 30#, 12 + 250 30# | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Disc | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Check Trident Fly Fishing Price
Available Sizes
- 4/5
- 5/6
- 7/8
- 9/10
- 11/12
- 12
Description
The Super Series has been around since 1999. These models have a robust aluminum frame and the standard large arbor size of all Abel reels.
And as you’d expect, the Super Series also look amazing, with the iconic hand-anodized finish. An excellent reel to take out on any fly fishing trip! You can shop for the Super Series online (shipping included) or from any Abel dealer/shop.
Limited Edition – AC/DC and Johnny Cash
Overall Score
Check Limited Edition AC/DC Price From Abel
Check Limited Edition Johnny Cash Price From Abel
Available Sizes
Limited Edition AC/DC
- 5/6
- 7/8
Limited Edition Johnny Cash
Overall Score
- 5/6
- 7/8
Description
If you’re an AC/DC fan or you adore Johnny Cash, you’ll love this premium, special edition. These incredible, hand-painted models will be available in a tiny number, individually serialized. So if you’re a fan of the rock stars AC/DC or the legendary Johnny Cash, take the opportunity to snap them up before they run out. The high price reflects the hours of meticulous care that goes into these one-of-a-kind reels.
You can shop for them directly from the Abel online shop, with shipping included. And if you miss these limited edition models, don’t worry. Abel runs different special editions from time to time.
Mooching Reel
Mooching Reel Specs:
| Available Size: – | Overall Weight: 15.52oz |
| Arbor Size: Mid | Material: 303 stainless steel |
| Spool Diameter: 4.7in | Colors: – |
| Spool Capacity: 550 50# Mono | Warranty: Abel Warranty |
| Drag Type: Disc | Country of Manufacture: USA |
Overall Score
Description
The company introduced the Mooching reel in 2013 after plenty of extensive testing in the factory and out on the water. The Mooching reels are designed specifically for anglers who use the mooching fly fishing technique. This means combining a disc-drag system with monofilament line for open water fishing.
These models are constructed in Colorado, as all Abel reels are. The price reflects the high quality and attention to detail that go into this sort of premium products.
The Mooching reels come equipped with a stellar cork drag system, standard large arbor, and a bigger, milled aluminum drag knob for easy adjustments. So if you’ve been on the search for a mooching reel, this is the product for you! You can get free shipping when you shop online, too.
FAQs
Are Abel reels worth it?
Yes, Abel reels are worth the investment. Abel reels are high-quality fly fishing reels that are well-crafted and built to last. They are designed to offer smooth performance, excellent drag and reliable operation. They are a great choice for anglers who want a reliable reel that will last for years.
Are Abel and Ross Reels the same company?
No, Abel and Ross Reels are not the same company. Abel is an American company that manufactures fly fishing reels, and Ross is an American company that manufactures fly fishing rods.
Who owns Abel reel?
Abel Reels is owned by The Abel Family, which includes four generations of reel makers. The company was founded in 1980 by Jack Abel, a former aerospace engineer and avid fisherman.
Where are Abel reels made?
Abel Reels are made in Montrose, Colorado, USA.
Does Abel make spinning reels?
No, Abel does not make spinning reels. Abel only makes fly fishing reels.
The Wrap Up
So there you have our guide and reviews to all the Abel fly reels, from the Super Series to the VAYA series. All of the Abel reels are constructed from superior materials in the Abel factory in Colorado, USA. With a dedicated team of rod designers and manufacturers, quality and performance are assured.
Every Abel product is carefully designed and tested before it hits the market, so it meets the fly angler’s needs. You can even select a custom finish from a wide variety of cool, colorful designs, to make your Abel reel stand out. The extra custom job comes at a high price, but if you want a unique Abel reel that looks amazing, it’s worth the splurge.
You can buy online from your favorite shop (most offer free shipping when you buy one of the Abel reels). Or, if you don’t want to factor in shipping time, search for your nearest Abel shop instead.
If you found this guide and reviews to Abel reels, drop us a comment to let us know which of the Abel product range you’re most tempted by! And don’t forget to share this Abel reel guide on Facebook or Twitter, to
1 thought on “Abel Reels Complete Lineup Review in 2024 – Fly Reels”
How about sound? I’d love to get your impression of how the Vaya compares with the Super and the TR.