Fly Fishing

lungdoc · Location: Cumberland, RI

I went to the Bear's Den today intending to buy a TFO axiom in 9 wt. I had cast it at the recent Marlboro show and was very impressed. Unfortunately, Scott did not have that exact rod in stock (on backorder). I decided to take a 9 Wt Xi3 outside for a spin. All I can say is WOW! I was hooked. This thing casts like a dream. Very fast action rod yet light in the hand with great casting feedback. In a moment of weakness I decided to spend the extra money. I can't wait to take this out in the salt this spring. This is going to make the rest of the winter very long indeed.

Shakeyfly · Location: RI

I am absolutely envious. I want that rod bad! Saving up the pennies until I can drop the chedder on that stick!

lungdoc · Location: Cumberland, RI

I notice that you live in RI as well. Your welcome to try my Xi3 out here in little Rhody this spring. I usually fish the Narrow River, Colt State Park, Westerly, etc. It really is a great rod. The rod loads with 20-30 feet of line and I was able to cast 80+ feet with ease. In addition, I was able to pick up 50-60 feet of line without difficulty and I am by no means an excellent caster.

Shakeyfly · Location: RI

thanks for the great offer... i've casted that thing so many times... I'm in love Wink

Chernobylv8 · Location: Chile

I´m not the best caster, but full line with no effort.
Xi3 really rocks, i´ve got mine on 10Wt for tarpon.

Cristián

Riprock · Location: Rocky Mount, NC

If you want to save a few bucks on an Xi3, there are several guys on eBay who build them from Sage blanks, same warranty etc. You can save anywhere from $85 to $175. I haven't bought one yet so I can't vouch for workmanship but I've switched my lust from a TCX to the Xi3 after casting to albies at Cape Lookout this past fall.

kory_k · Location: New York, NY

You may be able to save a few bucks buying an Xi3 from somebody that builds them but there is an important consideration when doing this. Yes the rod blank is covered by warranty, but that means when you send it back you only get a new blank and have to retie the guides and if you broke the butt section you have to re mount a grip and reel seat. If the guy you buy it from will warranty that, all the better but you still have to go through the extra step of sending the blank to sage, getting it back and then sending the blank to the guy who built it and waiting for him to rebuild it. You also have to either strip the guides from the broken piece or buy new ones, find the matching thread color, and again if you broke the butt section you have to buy a new cork grip and remove the butt section which sometimes can't be done in which case you would have to buy another one. In my opinion, getting a rod that is already built is a better way to go unless you really want a customized one and you plan on being very careful or if you just like building them.

ifsteve · Location: Idaho

I just got a custom Xi3 12 weight and am so impressed I ordered an 8 and 10 today. And I saved WAY more than you would think. If interested send me a pm and I will give you the details for a class operation.

Benzo · Location: Miami, FL

I too have switched from a TCX 9wt to an Xi3 9wt... this thing is a CANON!! It makes a great bonefish stick.

hedrush999 · Posted: Tue 02/16/10 12:28 pm Post subject:

welcome to the crew benzo

ifsteve · Location: Idaho

Kory makes a good point about buying a custom rod and having to go through some extra hoops if you break it. For sure make sure you get any custom rods that warranty the entire rod and will repair or replace once Sage (or any company) sends it on to them.

Now for me being up here in Idaho the extra hoops are no big deal. If I am down in Florida tarpon fishing and break a rod then how long it takes to get it repaired and back isn't that big a deal. Even if a factory rod I wouldn't have it during my trip and once my trip is over its highly unlikely I am going to be using it again for a number of months.

stoneyfly · Location: Rocky Mountains

ifsteve · Location: Idaho

J

Still a huge St. Croix fan and still have and use them. Just adding some new weapons to the arsenal. Since I ain't fishing thought I might as well spend money thinking about fishing!

Never been an Orvis fan but I would really like to try a Helios!

stoneyfly · Location: Rocky Mountains

Good to read ya Steve. I been fishing the 2 and 3 weight on the Provo...a little fly on the ice.