Fox's FX11 is a very popular reel in the Carp angling world and I could easily see why when I first laid my hands on it.
To start with, the FX11s frame is built with a hardwearing graphite body that, despite being pretty standard, still offers durability and helps keep the overall weight of the reel down.
At 590g the weight is pretty average in its class but this does offer a nice balance of the power you would expect in a decent Big Pit vs it being light enough to cast and handle well.
The handle is made from solid machined aluminium that is comfortable and easy to use on the retrieve.
The FX11 also comes with 2 solid line clips which are always handy. Inside the reel, the gearing is very good with 5+1 stainless steel bearings that not only helps keep the reel functioning for longer but also really adds to the smoothness of the retrieve.
Finally the reel is finished with a minimalist matte black design accented by discreet silver trims which looks great on the bank.
One feature I always really like in a Carp reel is a slow oscillation system. This does really make a difference to the line lay on the spool. In turn this helps with casting distance because there is less friction from the line peeling off the spool when the line lays perfectly.
The oscillation system on the Fox FX11 is super-slow and therefore really does help achieve that perfect line lay.
Fox have also complimented this with a 'pro cast lip' feature on the spool which further reduces friction in an aim to get those precious extra few yards on the cast.
The retrieve on the FX11 is also excellent with it feeling exceptionally smooth and well-balanced. This is no doubt helped by the 5+1 stainless steel ball bearings which for a mid-priced reel is a very nice addition.
Fox’s Quick Clutch system on the front of the spool allows you to tighten and loosen from free spool to solid in one and a half rotations of the clutch. It also has a really well though-out grit guard feature added to it which can only help with the reels longevity.
Once in free spool mode the clutch is smooth as anything and I never encountered any problems when playing good sized fish with the FX11. Okay so this isn't as fluid as some of the premium reels out there but it does the job and it does the job well.
Scoring an outstanding 9.0 in the value for money category is testament to Fox's ability to produce a really good performing carp reel whilst keeping it at an accessible price-point for the majority of anglers.
At around the £120 mark it is absolutely worth every penny and a fantastic option for both beginners and more experienced Carp anglers.
| Feature | What this means |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratio: 4.6:1 | The spool turns 4.6 times for every one turn of the handle. This gear ratio is average for this reel type. |
| Weight: 590g | This weight is average when compared to its competition. |
| Line Capacity: 0.33mm/320m | Amount of line the spool can hold which is important for casting distance. This capacity is on par with similar reels. |
| Retrieve Rate: 95cm per handle turn | Length of line retrieved per handle turn. This reel is ever so slightly slower on the retrieve than others. |
| Drag System: Quick Clutch with Grit Guard | Allows rapid adjustment from freespool to locked drag, providing precision and control. |
| Number of Ball Bearings: 5+1 | Five stainless steel ball bearings plus one roller bearing ensure smooth operation and durability. This is a good amount for a reel of this type. |
| Construction Material: Hardwearing graphite body | Durable material offering strength and resistance to corrosion. |
| Handle: Machined solid aluminium handle | Provides a balanced and comfortable grip. |
| Anti-Reverse System: Infinite anti-reverse | Prevents handle from moving backward, ensuring better hook holds and control. |
| Spool Type: Large diameter aluminium spool | Enhances casting performance by reducing friction and improving line flow. |
| Bail Arm: Rotor Brake System | Reduces line twist and ensures smooth line lay on the spool. |
| Special Features: Super-slow oscillation, Anti-backlash system | Ensures even line lay, reducing line wear and improving casting performance. |
See how the Fox FX11 compares with other carp reels on overall score and current price.
| Name | Price | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Fox FX11 | £109.99 | |
| Daiwa 20 Crosscast Spod Reel | £129.99 | |
| Shimano Aerlex XTC Spod Reel 14000 | £105.00 | |
| Okuma 8K Carp Reel | £73.99 | |
| Daiwa 20 GS BR LT Reel | £89.99 | |
| Sonik SK-47 Carbon Reel | £53.46 | |
| Sonik Turbospod Reel 14000 | £74.99 | |
| Avid Carp Revolve FS Reel | £50.39 | |
| Mitchell Mx1 Fs Reel Pre-Spooled | £29.99 |
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It is a big-pit carp reel with a graphite body, large-diameter aluminium spool and Fox Quick Clutch drag system.
The listed gear ratio is 4.6:1, with around 95cm of line retrieved per handle turn.
The FX11 is listed at around 590g, which keeps it in normal territory for this style of big-pit carp reel.
The listed line capacity is 0.33mm/320m, giving it enough capacity for normal distance carp fishing.
It uses Fox Quick Clutch with Grit Guard, allowing quick adjustment from freespool to locked drag.
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