Abel Vaya De Young Brook Flank Fly Reel – 5/6
Custom Details:
- Reel Finish – De Young Brook Flank
- Drag Knob Finish – Basic Black
- Small Wood Handle – Rose
VAYA: Spanish for ‘Go!’, as in go outside, go explore, go fishing!
Crafted by avid Colorado anglers, the VAYA series debuts an all-new technical look and feel paired with outstanding performance. The partially-ported VAYA frame offers the unique combination of minimized weight, incredible rigidity, and just enough surface area to highlight Abel’s hand-anodized finishes. The frame interior also features varying sets of CNC-milled fly patterns, relevant to each size of reel.
The large-arbor spool features a precision-balanced, dual-pawl drag engagement design that eliminates the need for a counterweight.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reel Size | 5/6 |
| Finish | De Young Brook Flank |
| Drag Knob | Basic Black |
| Handle | Small Wood (Rose) |
| Spool Type | Large-Arbor |
| Drag System | Dual-Pawl Engagement |
FAQ
What makes the VAYA reel different from other Abel models?
The VAYA series features a partially-ported frame that reduces weight while maintaining rigidity, combined with hand-anodized finishes and CNC-milled fly patterns tailored to each reel size.
Is the drag system adjustable?
The dual-pawl drag engagement design provides consistent performance without requiring a counterweight, offering smooth and reliable drag control.
What is the finish on the handle?
The handle is finished in rose wood with a natural, durable texture that complements the overall aesthetic of the reel.


Diana Mackenzie –
The VAYA reel feels lightweight and balanced. The De Young Brook finish is unique and stands out. Drag performance is smooth and responsive, especially on dry fly fishing. The rose wood handle adds a nice touch and feels solid in hand.
Stephanie Harris –
I’ve used this reel on several trout streams in Colorado. The dual-pawl drag works well without needing a counterweight. The craftsmanship is evident in the detail and finish. It’s a reliable and well-designed fly reel.
Felicity Slater –
The reel performs well in the field. The rose wood handle is pleasant to grip. The finish is durable and looks great. A bit heavier than expected for a 5/6, but still manageable for most fly fishing scenarios.