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Vision XO III double-handed fly rod – Graphene-reinforced performance

Vision XO rod with bag and rod tube
Robert Hardy
Robert Hardy 6 March 2026

Vision’s flagship XO double-handed fly rods have received a major upgrade with the launch of the Vision XO III, delivering even greater performance for modern Spey and Skagit casting.

What does it replace?

The original XO rod earned a Trout & Salmon magazine No.1 recommendation in the 13ft rod test (April 2019), quickly becoming a favourite among serious salmon and sea trout anglers. With the XO III series, Vision has taken the next step forward by upgrading the carbon quality throughout the range and introducing graphene-reinforced resin and advanced blank construction.

Vision XO double handed fly rod

Is it an improvement on the original?

Despite these technological improvements, the XO III retains the forgiving medium-fast action that made the original series so popular. This versatile action allows anglers to confidently fish a wide range of Spey, Scandi, and Skagit lines, making the rod equally capable on medium rivers and powerful big-water salmon fisheries.

By combining next-generation carbon fibre with graphene-reinforced resin, Vision has increased blank strength and stability while reducing overall material usage. The result is a lighter, stronger rod with sharper recovery, improved power transfer, and greater casting precision.

The natural, unsanded and unpainted blank avoids unnecessary processing and coatings, reducing weight while also making the rod more environmentally responsible.

Premium components complete the XO III build:

  • Skeleton down-locking aluminium reel seat for maximum strength with minimal weight

  • High-grade Portuguese cork handle with rubber cork reinforcements for durability and comfort

  • Titanium stripping guides for smooth line control and corrosion resistance

  • Triangular Cordura rod tube and protective cloth bag for safe transport

Full XO III double-handed rod range

The Vision XO III series includes six models designed to cover everything from compact Skagit setups to powerful big-river salmon fishing.

The range begins with an 11ft 3in 7wt rod, weighing just 150g (5.2oz) and designed for 23–30g (460gr) Skagit lines—perfect for tight rivers and technical fishing.

At the top of the range sits the impressive 16ft 6in 11wt model, built for demanding big-river conditions and capable of handling 42–50g (770gr) Skagit heads, yet still weighing only 294g (10.3oz).

With its advanced materials, reduced weight, and proven casting action, the Vision XO III double-handed rod series offers elite performance for salmon and sea trout anglers who demand power, precision, and versatility.

Price: Vision XO III DH rods, £799.99-£1099.99

Contact Guide Fly Fishing, 01977 681300; guideflyfishing.co.uk

 

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