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Jeff's Fishing Journal

Jeff’s Journal #1

Abel Tribute Nov. 14, 2005

I thought of many things that I could write about for the first issue of Jeff’s Journal. There will be many future issues that will have My fishing experiences and tips as well as features on the newest products from JTA, but for my first issue I am going to talk about another great company: Abel Quality Products. For almost 20 years Steve and Gina Abel have lead the Fly Fishing industry in creating the absolute best gear for the Fly Fishing Angler. From the first Abel #1 to the newest Abel Ace and everything in between, Abel has been in the forefront of angling innovation.

At the recent Fly fishing Retailer show in Denver, CO. I learned only a few hours before the rest of the world that Steve and Gina had sold the company to Sharpe’s of Aberdeen. I had many mixed emotions about what I had just heard. I was excited for Steve and Gina because I knew this opportunity would allow them to take a break from the long hours of hard work they have been involved with for so many years. On the other hand I was sad to see such great leaders of industry retire. My best wishes go to all the folks at Sharpe’s, They have inherited a great company with a great reputation. I am confident they will carry on the great Abel tradition of uncompromising quality and service.

I was happy to hear that Steve will still be working at Abel for the next year to help with the transition. Along with millions of anglers worldwide, I will ever be grateful for the wonderful Abel products which have served me well for so many years and I am sure they will serve me well for many more. I would like to give a personal thanks to Steve Abel: Thanks Dad for the spirit of Invention which runs through me and teaching me all I know about Fly Fishing and the joys of being on the River with a tight line.

For all those who wonder what Steve and Gina will be doing with their newly found freedom, all I can say is look on the Water you’ll have a good chance of finding them there.

Jeff Abel