Should I buy an Abel Super8?

[cw76]

Good day, I was hoping to gather some information in regards to the Abel Super 8 series reel, I have a couple of concerns: Firstly I would be pairing it with a 10' 8wt. Z-axis rod; Is the super 8 too heavy? Secondly, I would be using the setup to do some wintertime steelheading and I've heard through the grapevine (whatever that means) that people have had issues with the cork drag system in winter conditions. Thanks, C

 

[russellb]

Weight wise that is something that you will want to look at, likely you're golden. As for the drag if kept serviced it will be fine. I have several Abel reels and I absolutely love them, truly beautiful pieces of equipment-

 

[wishiniwerfishin]

I realy like my Super 6 and 5, but have heard the same concerns about winter use with Abels, or any cork drag reel. I think as long as your not in freezing temperatures you are ok. As for the weight, I think the a little heavier reel is needed for the longer rods to help not be so tip heavy. My Super 6 is on a Scot S4 956(9'6" 6wt) and the balance is better and is more comfortable than when I have my Bauer MSL2 mounted to it. I'd say if your already looking at Abels, might as well buy one, if not you'll be buying one in the future anyway.....

 

[caseywise]

nail it!! that would be a really sweet rig

 

[cw76]

I have considered my options and I have decided I will be the proud new owner of an Abel super 8. Thanks for the responses. C

 

[caseywise]

good choice bro. you have quite the arsenal now

casey

 

[Sage & Abel]

I use my Super 7 in below freezing temps for steelhead and have never had a problem with the cork drag. I've heard the same so no doubt some have had issues. Heck, I've fished a sealed drag Lamson Velocity and had it freeze up on me because the housing froze to the spool so it can happen to reels. Put it this way, when I'm fishing winter steel and the flyline is coated with so much ice its stiff and hard to break off... well I don't care what type of reel you are fishing there will be some issues.

Great purchase.

Cheers,
Mike

 

[throssing]

I don't think that you can go wrong with any of the Super Series reels. I have the Super 2, and I love it, even though the drag doesn't get much of a workout on my 4 weight outfit!

 

[jaybo41]

Hard to pass up the Super Series if you can find them on closeout. Though I hear buying one leads to future purchases of Abel reels. Congratulations on your purchase:thmbup: