There are fly reels… and then there are Abel reels.
For decades, Abel Reels have occupied a unique place in the world of fly fishing — combining exceptional engineering with distinctive American craftsmanship and some of the finest finishes ever applied to a reel. Built in California and admired worldwide, Abel reels have become as collectable as they are fishable.
At Thomas Turner, we’ve always appreciated tackle that manages to bridge both worlds: serious performance on the water and lasting desirability as an object in its own right. Abel reels sit comfortably in that category.
Built Properly. Built to Last.
Founded in the late 1980s, Abel quickly established a reputation for producing reels that could withstand the harsh realities of saltwater fly fishing while retaining the refinement expected by discerning anglers.
Machined from solid aerospace-grade aluminium, Abel reels are known for:
- Exceptional drag systems
- Tight engineering tolerances
- Impressive durability
- Distinctive anodised finishes
- Fully serviceable construction
These are reels designed to be used hard for decades — whether targeting Atlantic salmon, bonefish, tarpon or trout.
Many anglers first encounter Abel through the famous Super Series reels, models that became almost legendary for their reliability and stopping power. Even heavily used examples often remain mechanically superb years later, which says a great deal about the quality of manufacture.
More Than Just a Fishing Reel
Part of Abel’s appeal lies in the fact that they never looked or felt mass-produced.
From understated black anodised finishes to highly artistic fish graphics and custom colour work, Abel reels developed a personality rarely seen in modern tackle manufacturing. For many collectors, that individuality is part of the attraction.
Certain discontinued Abel models and finishes are now increasingly difficult to find — particularly early USA-made examples, rare sizes, left-hand wind variants, and reels complete with their original pouches, boxes and paperwork.
As with classic Hardy reels or fine handmade rods, condition and originality matter.
Abel & Saltwater Fly Fishing
Few manufacturers became as closely associated with saltwater fly fishing’s rise during the 1990s and early 2000s as Abel.
Their reels earned a reputation for handling powerful fish in punishing environments:
- Tarpon
- Bonefish
- Permit
- Salmon
- Steelhead
- Saltwater predators worldwide
Large-arbour designs, dependable sealed drags and corrosion resistance made them favourites among guides and travelling anglers alike.
Even today, many experienced anglers continue to trust older Abel reels over newer alternatives — often because they simply refuse to fail.
Collectability & the Modern Market
Interest in quality modern classic tackle continues to grow, and Abel reels remain highly sought after on the secondary market.
Collectors increasingly look for:
- Early Abel models
- Rare finishes
- Limited editions
- USA-made reels
- Original cases and accessories
- Larger salmon and saltwater sizes
- Left-hand wind examples
Unlike many modern reels, Abel products tend to age gracefully. Minor marks and honest wear are often seen as part of their story rather than a flaw.
At Thomas Turner, we regularly handle vintage, discontinued and hard-to-find Abel reels alongside classic names such as Hardy Brothers, J.W. Young & Sons and Orvis.
Why We Like Them
There’s a reassuring honesty to an Abel reel.
They feel substantial without being over-engineered. Functional without being plain. Beautiful without sacrificing performance.
Most importantly, they were built to fish — properly.
In an era where so much tackle feels temporary, Abel reels still carry that sense of permanence that collectors and anglers value alike.
Looking for an Abel Reel?
We regularly stock a selection of vintage and modern Abel fly reels, including salmon, trout and saltwater models.
Contact the team if you’re searching for a particular model, finish or size.
