The SDF (Sealed Drad Fresh) is largely based on the popular, award-winning and field-proven saltwater flagship, the SDS. Design, the high demand for quality and the drag system have been retained, but in a scaled-down, lighter and more refined version. The result: The best freshwater reel Abel has ever made! But not only ABEL itself swears by the quality of its new fly reel, independent judges are also 100% convinced, so that the SDF clears the title "Best of Show" at ICAST/IFTD 2017 and a little later "Best New Freshwater Reel" of Fly Fisherman Magazine.
The frame, spool, drag knob and reel foot are milled from cold forged 6061-T651 aircraft aluminum. The cold forging process combined with the hard anodizing of the surface give the reel an incredible robustness against all external influences such as impacts, sand, scratches, but also aggressive salt water. The airy, ventilated construction of the reel not only creates a modern, timeless and delicate look, it combines a high level of stability with a relatively low weight.
The label "Freshwater" is therefore somewhat misleading, because the reel also cuts a fine figure in saltwater. Sea trout, sea bass or bonefish in the tropics - the SDF is absolutely saltwater resistant and especially on somewhat lighter tackle a reliable companion on the flats and coasts of this world.
This is not least due to the completely sealed multi-disc drag system, which has been somewhat refined compared to its big brother, the SDS. It is based on the same alternating carbon and stainless steel discs, which dissipate energy and distribute power perfectly. However, the max. drag force was reduced, more important was an even finer adjustability of the drag tension. At full power, around 10 pounds are put on the scale, with the brake open, the tension is barely noticeable, so you do not have to worry even with ultra-thin leaders. Especially the low start-up inertia is essential. The drag tension can be finely adjusted in no time via the smooth-running and grippy knob and always perfectly adapted to the respective situation, the target fish, your leader thickness, etc. One less thing to worry about when your dream fish is raging at the end of the line.
In short, the Abel SDF is modern, timeless, delicate yet incredibly robust. The finely adjustable, sealed drag shows flawless performance in practice and is ideal for fishing with the finest leaders thanks to the lowest starting resistance. But the SDF is also a great addition to your lighter saltwater rods, relying on the same construction and durable components as its big brother.
Details:
- Top-of-the-line fly reel
- Large arbor design for fast retrieve speed and low memory effect
- Sophisticated ported design to reduce weight
- Significantly lighter than its predecessor (original SD)
- Frame, spool, drag knob and reel foot are machined from cold-forged 6061-T651 aircraft grade aluminum
- Hard anodizing for added durability
- Sealed multi-disc brake system: alternatingly stacked carbon composite and stainless steel drag discs
- Drag force finely adjustable between 0 and 10 lbs
- Awards: Best Freshwater Fly Reel ("Fly Fisherman Magazine" 2018) and Best of Show (ICAST/IFTD 2017).
- Quick-Change Spool
- Retrieving direction can be changed quickly
- Designed and manufactured by trout experts in Colorado, USA
| Model | Size | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/5 | 83 x 28 mm | 142 g | WF 5 + 75 m 20# |
| 5/6 | 92 x 28 mm | 154 g | WF 6 + 100 m 20# |
| 6/7 | 95 x 29 mm | 160 g | WF 7 + 145 m 20# |
Abel - Inspired by the Mountains: The American cult forge from Colorado! Since 1980, the company stands for the highest standards in quality, manufacturing technology and performance when it comes to fly reels and accessories. All products are 100% made in the USA and all steps, from conceptual design to the finished product are carried out in their own manufacturing facility. Right at the feet of the Rocky Mountains, right at the epicenter of the American fly fishing scene. Their mission: to produce the best and most reliable fly reels on the market. And that's what numerous guides and outfitters worldwide have believed for over three decades now. One thing is clear: no other reel manufacturer can boast as many IGFA records and awards as Abel.
