In 2009 Abel Reels collaborated with outdoor artist Derek DeYoung to replicate original images on Abel reels.
I am still using the same Abel Reels that Steve Abel sold me over a decade ago.
This is an excellent match up for St. Croix's Bank Robber!
If you just want to buy a reel off the shelf, the most cost-effective, well-made, milled from solid bar stock aluminum reel is the Redington Rise and Drift series reel.
This is a great starter rod and reel for the Mid Atlantic. Comes with St. Croix Reel.
Great all around rod with smooth accurate soft landing.
The work horse of the industry. Nine out of ten times this is the first rod I'll give clients.