Abel SDS Ported - Baja Fade - Size 11/12
- Reel frame, spool, drag knob and foot made of 6061-T651 cold finished aerospace grade aluminum
- Alternating stacked carbon composite and stainless steel disc drag system
- Quick change spool
- User convertible retrieval direction
- Made in USA
Description
The Abel SDS Ported is one of the most respected saltwater fly reels on the market, trusted by guides and serious anglers pursuing everything from bonefish to giant trevally. Designed and manufactured in California, the SDS (Sealed Drag Salt) combines Abel's renowned machining quality with an exceptionally smooth sealed drag system that delivers consistent, repeatable performance under extreme pressure.
The fully sealed carbon and stainless steel drag protects against salt, sand, and debris while providing smooth startup and impressive stopping power. Combined with a large arbor design, generous backing capacity, and lightweight ported frame, the SDS is equally comfortable stalking bonefish on shallow flats or battling tarpon, GTs, and other powerful gamefish.
For anglers looking for a premium, American-made saltwater reel with a long-standing reputation for durability and refinement, the Abel SDS remains one of the industry's benchmarks.
Specifications
| Model | Line Weight | Weight | Spool Diameter | Spool Width | Arbor Size | Backing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDS Ported 7/8 | 7–8 wt | 8.88 oz | 3.860" | 1.060" | Large | WF7 + 260 yds 20 lb backing WF8 + 240 yds 20 lb backing |
| SDS Ported 9/10 | 9–10 wt | 9.77 oz | 4.210" | 1.165" | Large | WF9 + 240 yds 20 lb backing WF10 + 250 yds 20 lb backing |
| SDS Ported 11/12 | 11–12 wt | 10.00 oz | 4.540" | 1.165" | Large | WF11 + 285 yds 30 lb backing WF12 + 250 yds 30 lb backing |
Size Chart
| Target Species | Recommended Model | Line Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Bonefish | 7/8 | 7–8 wt |
| Redfish | 7/8 | 7–8 wt |
| Permit | 7/8, 9/10 | 8–10 wt |
| Striped Bass | 7/8, 9/10 | 8–10 wt |
| Golden Dorado | 9/10 | 9–10 wt |
| Tarpon | 9/10, 11/12 | 10–12 wt |
| Roosterfish | 9/10 | 10 wt |
| Giant Trevally | 11/12 | 11–12 wt |
| Tuna | 11/12 | 12 wt |
| Sailfish | 11/12 | 12 wt |
FAQ
Who Is the Abel SDS Ported For?
The Abel SDS Ported is built for anglers who want one of the finest saltwater fly reels available. It is an excellent choice for anglers who spend significant time on the flats or traveling to destinations where equipment failure simply isn't an option.
For anglers who appreciate premium American machining and want a reel they'll likely own for decades, the Abel SDS is one of the industry's gold standards.
How Good Is the Abel SDS Drag System?
The fully sealed Sealed Drag Salt (SDS) system is widely regarded as one of the smoothest drag systems available in fly fishing.
The carbon and stainless steel drag stack delivers exceptionally low startup inertia while maintaining consistent pressure throughout long runs. This helps protect lighter tippets while still providing the stopping power needed for powerful species like tarpon and giant trevally.
The result is a drag that inspires confidence when fish change direction unexpectedly or accelerate during long runs.
Is the Abel SDS Worth the Price?
For anglers who regularly travel for saltwater fly fishing, many would say yes.
The SDS is undeniably expensive, but you're paying for American manufacturing, meticulous machining, premium materials, and a reel with a reputation for lasting decades with proper care. It represents a long-term investment rather than an entry-level purchase.
For anglers who only make an occasional saltwater trip, however, there are more affordable reels that will perform very well.
Build Your Own
You can build your own Abel SDF online using Abel’s Reel Building Tool. This tool is a great way to visualize your reel before purchasing as it will render images showing all of the available finishes available in both ported and solid versions. Customize your reel even further by picking out the drag knob and reel handle finish as well.
Please select Yellow Dog Flyfishing as the “Authorized Dealer who helped you with this sale” prior to adding the reel to your cart.
Warranty
Abel® products carry a lifetime warranty that covers the repair or replacement of parts due to defect in material or workmanship.
*Our warranty is valid for the original owner only, i.e., it is not transferable and is in effect only for products purchased through an Authorized Abel Dealer. Abel will determine if the product is covered under this warranty due to faulty material or workmanship. Parts for older or discontinued models may be replaced with parts for current models. Colors may vary between original and replacement parts. eBay® and any other similar auction or discount arenas do not carry any warranty.
For repairs not covered by the warranty, a quote will be provided upon request for approval before proceeding with any repair(s).
