Fox Horizon X3 Spod & Marker Rod Review
Last Updated on 12 March 2025 by James Bevan
How It Scores
OVERALL RATING
The Fox Horizon X3 spod & marker rod is a powerful spod rod, ideal for those who are looking for Fox quality at an affordable price.
The Fox Horizon X3 is one of Fox’s popular additions to their much loved Horizon spod and marker rod range. I’ve been putting this carp rod through its paces over the last few months, so it’s time to give my in-depth thoughts.
The Rods Features:
Starting with the all-important blank – Fox has gone with a high-modulus carbon construction here, which provides a lightweight yet powerful blank. The multi-directional carbon gives it plenty of backbone for repetitive spodding, while retaining some tip softness for marker work. Visually the glossy black carbon finish looks sleek, and complements the subtle Horizon graphics.
The X3 has a beefy 50mm butt ring, which really helps add an extra few metres when casting large spods and spombs. It also features Fox’s ‘anti tangle’ guides, which have proven reliable at reducing any line frap-ups during casts so far.
The 18mm reel seat is another plus point, holding my Emblem securely in place when putting some welly into those long-range casts.
The reel seat on the Fox Horizon X3 Spod & Marker Rod
In terms of the handle, the Horizon X3 spoils you with choices. Whether you’re into the abbreviated version or more of a cork handle fan, you’re in for a treat. Personally, I adore the cork; both in the way it looks but also how it sits comfortably in your hand on those long repetitive spodding sessions.
How It Performs:
So onto the critical bit – how it actually performs! This 5.5lb test curve X3 has ample backbone and casting power for hitting distance. I’ve found it more than capable of hitting 100m+ when needed. The tip recovery is quick, cushioning weighty spombs on impact.
For markers, I’ll be honest I found it a tad stiff as a marker rod. Not a deal-breaker, but something to consider.
How It Compares:
Comparing it to other big-name spod rods like the Infinity X45 and Stealth Graphene, I’d say the X3 sits in the middle. It doesn’t quite have the same long-range grunt as the top-end spod rods, but it does cost considerably less.
It outperforms cheaper rods like its younger sibling the EOS Pro, especially with its power and casting ability. Overall it hits a nice sweet spot of power, features and price.
How It Scores Against Its Competitors
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano TX A Spod Rod | 8.8 | £84.99 |
| Nash Dot Spod Rod | 8.6 | £169.91 |
| Daiwa Infinity X45 Spod Rod | 9.3 | £299.99 |
| Daiwa Black Widow XT Spod Rod | 8 | £39.99 |
| Sonik Xtractor Spod Rod | 7.6 | £59.99 |
| Trakker Propel Spod Rod | 8.9 | £79.99 |
| Onyx Quickdraw Spod Rod | 7.3 | £108.99 |
| Fox EOS Pro Spod Rod | 7.4 | £64.99 |
| Fox Horizon X3 Spod & Marker Rod | 8.1 | £243.99 |
| Daiwa Emcast Spod Rod | 8.3 | £59.00 |
| Century Stealth Graphene Spod Rod | 9 | £498.99 |
The Pros & Cons:
Pros
- A strong yet lightweight blank that is capable of casting heavy spods and spombs
- The 50mm butt ring helps with smooth casting especially when using a braided mainline with a shock leader
- The anti-tangle guides add to the rod-casting performance
- A good-looking rod with understated graphics and matching black fittings and whippings
- Two handle options (cork or abbreviated)
Cons
- The 5.5lb test curve is a little too stiff for me especially when I’m using it as a marker rod
- I feel the rod caters more to spodding rather than a balanced spod/marker hybrid
Value For Money:
At around the£100 mark the X3 is certainly not a budget rod, but I don’t think it’s overpriced either. You’re getting a well-engineered, quality-built British rod for your money.
The high modulus carbon, Fuji reel seat, 50mm butt ring and anti-tangle guides all justify the price tag. Yes, it’s not the cheapest out there, but you’re paying for performance and reputation.
For what you’re getting, I think Fox has pitched it well – it’s good value without breaking the bank. You could pay less, but the performance would be noticeably reduced.
Latest Prices
Fox Horizon X3 Spod & Marker Rod Review: Final Verdict:
If you’re in the market for a capable all-round spod and marker rod, the Horizon X3 deserves your consideration. It handles heavy spombing and long-range work with due aplomb.
The build quality and components are all solid. Yes, the handle could be more ergonomic, and the stiffish tip is not to everyone’s taste. But overall Fox has crafted a great middle ground rod here. It’s powerful, reliable and reasonably priced – an impressive package.
Thanks for reading.
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