Tenkara Fishing: The Angler's Guide

Everything related to Japan is somewhat mystical but incredibly delicate, with special attention to details, and so it is with tenkara fishing. This technique can be interpreted as reinventing the essence of traditional fly fishing, combining simplicity with a deep connection to and respect for nature. 

Tenkara fishing is all about the pure joy of catching. It's a technique that uses only a rod, line, and fly without the complexity of a reel or any additional gear. This simplicity allows anglers to focus on the thrill of fishing without any unnecessary distractions. 

This technique is fascinating and full of pleasure and requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to hone your skills or a beginner eager to dive into something new, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to understand and potentially master tenkara fishing. Without further ado, let's dive deeper into this unique and rewarding style of fishing.

Understanding Tenkara Fishing

A sophisticated and effective technique, Tenkara is the Japanese version of the well-known fly fishing, but reduced to the basics: minimal equipment and the sharpest possible precision. Anglers who are avid fans of this technique use it most in mountain streams and rivers, which resembles the samurai lifestyle, known for its discipline, precision, and respect for nature.

They generally use a light, telescoping rod to cast a delicate fly on the water's surface, often focusing on areas such as behind rocks or deeper pools. For precision and all that elegance and grace to give results, a deep understanding of fish behavior and flow dynamics is required, allowing for a strategically organized and thoughtful approach.

Simplicity combined with the need for precise casting and keen observation makes tenkara a unique and valuable method, but it only aligns with some.

Why Use Tenkara Fishing

Tenkara fishing is a technique that anyone can learn. With only a rod, line, and fly to manage, anglers can focus on the experience of fishing, rather than the complexity of gear. The ease of handling the technique allows for delicate and precise casts, making it a perfect choice for beginners. 

It's a solid choice for beginners, as its simplicity allows new anglers to focus on basic skills without the complexity of traditional fly-fishing setups.

Then, without the unnecessary distraction of gear, anglers can fully immerse themselves in reading the water, understanding fish behavior, enjoying the serenity of their surroundings, and even contemplating the philosophical aspects of fishing, such as the connection between man and nature and the value of patience and observation.

When to Use Tenkara Fishing

Tenkara fishing is conceptually and with simple, light equipment primarily intended for small streams and mountain rivers. The light and compact equipment makes it perfect for situations of high mobility, such as hiking. It can also be used in salt water but in shallower, calmer areas. 

This technique is especially effective in clear waters where fish are easily spooked, as its subtle presentation reduces disturbance. Fly fishing, including its delicate Japanese version, is mainly practiced in spring and fall. When the water temperatures are moderate, the fish behave more stably, and predicting their behavior and movements is easier. 

Tenkara has many practical benefits and excels in environments where portability, precision, and simplicity are key.

Why Fish Gather on Tenkara

Because of its stoic focus on a clean catch, the tenkara excels at mimicking the behavior of the insects that the fish feed on. The essential equipment makes long casting possible, and subtle manipulation allows the fly to land softly and naturally in the water. Disturbance is thus minimized, allowing anglers to quietly approach and bring out the fly with minimal spraying, reducing the risk of spooking the fish.

In addition, traditional tenkara flies, sakasa kebari, are designed to mimic local insects, ensuring that fish recognize the fly as a familiar food source. These flies are tied with a reverse hackle, which gives them a unique swimming action in the water, making them irresistible to the fish.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Tenkara

Tenkara fishing is particularly effective in freshwater environments, but you can also catch some marine species. Here are some of the most common fish species caught with the tenkara:

• Brook Trout: Beautifully colored and often found in cool, clear streams and rivers, it is a favorite among tenkara anglers who enjoy fishing in pristine, picturesque surroundings.

• California Trout: This fish is known for its vivid colors and acrobatics. It is found in a variety of freshwater habitats and is a popular target for tenkara fishing, especially in rivers and lakes.

• Dolly Varden: This beautiful fish lives in cold-water streams and rivers. It is known for its aggressive feeding behavior and is a fun and challenging target for tenkara fishing.

• Arctic Char: Swims exclusively in northern freshwater habitats. A species that prefers cold, clear waters, offering an exciting challenge for tenkara anglers.

• Bluegill: These small and abundant fish are found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, making them excellent targets for novice tenkara rods.

• Crappie: This fish is known for its schooling behavior and preference for shallow waters, especially during their spawning season in the spring.

• Smallmouth Bass: A famous species that you will find easily in rivers and streams with rocky bottoms, the Smallmouth Bass provides an exciting fight on the tenkara rod, especially in the cooler and faster parts of the water.

• Largemouth Bass: Although more often targeted with traditional tackle, it can be caught with a tenkara, especially when using larger flies.

• Grayling: This fish is known for its dorsal fin and willingness to catch a dry fly. It is found in cold, clear rivers and streams, which makes it the perfect fish for tenkara fishing.

• Surfperch: Found along sandy shores and rocky coastal areas, the surfperch is a good target for tenkara fishing due to its proximity to shore and feeding habits.

• Snappers: There are many types of Snappers, and the smaller specimens are caught with Euglav Tenkara in shallow coastal waters and mangroves. They also inhabit areas with structure, which gives an advantage to precise tenkara casting with rods.

The fascinating effectiveness enables anglers to explore the tenkara without limiting themselves to just these fish.

Essential Gear for Tenkara

The heart of this technique is the tenkara rod, a light and telescoping marvel that, paired with a specialized tenkara line, which is either crimped or straight, ensures delicate presentations and natural movement. It's very straightforward, but that doesn't mean you have nothing to choose from. Pay attention to the following equipment.

Rods

Tenkara rods are usually light, not weak, but built to handle various fishing situations. Here are the most commonly used types of tenkara fishing rods:

• Standard Tenkara Rods: These are in the 10 to 14-foot range. They offer versatility and are ideal for a variety of stream and river conditions. They provide an excellent balance of reach and control for targeting fish in small to medium streams.

• Zoom Tenkara Rods: These are adjustable rods that can be extended or retracted by several feet, typically 9 to 14 feet, with the adjustable length not interfering with or compromising effectiveness. Moreover, they allow anglers to adapt to different widths and flow conditions quickly.

• Keiryu Rods: Slightly longer and stiffer than standard tenkara rods, ranging from 12 to 20 feet. They are intended for larger rivers and streams where greater reach is required. It is closely specialized in special mini-techniques within the tenkara technique.

• Seiryu Rods: These are lighter and more delicate rods designed for catching small fish in very clear and calm waters. They range from 10 to 13 feet and have a softer action than keiryu rods.

• Compact Tenkara Rods: Built to be, they fold into a very compact size, often less than 20 inches when fully folded, but extend to typical lengths of 10 to 12 feet. They are excellent for further and longer trips that include hiking.

Each type of rod has unique advantages, so whether you're fishing tight, bushy creeks or wide, open rivers, there's a tenkara rod designed to enhance your experience.

Lines 

Considering the basic gear level, the chosen line, together with the complete setup, must support and enable precise casts. Each type has its own advantages, and most anglers choose them based on their preferences or water conditions.

• Furled Lines: These are constructed by twisting or braiding multiple strands of material together, resulting in a tapered line that resembles a twisted rope. The taper and weight distribution of the spooled lines make them easy to cast. They are especially good for beginners, as they offer a delicate presentation, reducing the chances of spooking the fish. At the same time, they are robust and resistant to tampering.

• Level Lines: This type has a uniform diameter along the entire length and can be cut to the desired length by the angler. It is made of fluorocarbon or monofilament and can be adjusted in length and diameter to suit different fishing conditions. They are not easily noticeable and offer better sensitivity, which is useful for detecting subtle bites.

• Tapered Lines: These lines combine the properties of crimped and straight threads with a gradual taper. They are made of a combination of crimped and straight materials. This provides easy casting of a coiled line tenkara, versatility of straight lines, and better control over fly presentation and line management.

The choice between coiled, straight, and tapered lines depends on the angler's skill level; each of the mentioned lines emphasises a certain characteristic, which can prove to be an advantage in given situations.

Hooks

Tenkara hooks come in sizes 10 to 16, allowing anglers to tailor their hooks to specific conditions and target species. Smaller hooks are for delicate presentations and targeting smaller fish, such as Trout and Panfish, while larger hooks (sizes 10-12) are more suitable for tying large flies and targeting larger fish. Here's which one to choose.

• Barbless Hooks: They are probably the most common choice in tenkara fishing due to their design, which, unlike traditional, barbless hooks, do not have the small, backward-facing projection (hook) that anchors the fish once hooked, making them easier to remove. Anglers appreciate the challenge and skill required to use barbless hooks effectively, as it emphasizes proper technique and careful handling.

• Tenkara-Specific Hooks: Designed exclusively for tenkara fishing, these hooks have a wide gap and a straight or slightly curved shank, optimizing them for tying traditional tenkara flies such as Sakasa Kebari and Jun Akbari. They are made of high-quality materials to withstand the demands of fast currents and strong fish pulls. Tenkara-specific hooks support the minimalist and efficient approach central to this method of fishing.

• Lightweight Fine Wire Hooks: Lightweight fine wire hooks are prized for their ability to gently present the fly in the water, thus emphasizing its natural drift and attraction to the fish. They are excellent for clear, calm waters where fish are easily spooked. An advantage of fine wire is that it improves sensitivity, helping anglers detect subtle bites. They are ideal for fishing scenarios where a delicate presentation is required.

Hooks are an important component in tenkara fishing because they directly affect the effectiveness of fly presentation and the ability to catch successfully. They are usually chosen for their simplicity, efficiency, and compatibility with traditional tenkara flies (Akbari).

Essential Baits and Lures for Tenkara

As you probably know, the tenkara variation of fly fishing uses exclusively artificial fly imitations. Therefore, below, we will explore the most effective flies for freshwater and saltwater tenkara fishing.

Freshwater

Tenkara is a technique mainly used in freshwater environments, and interesting and varied flies can be caught using it. Here are some of them.

• Sakasa Kebari: The most famous tenkara fly, with a forward-facing hackle that allows the fly to move enticingly in the water, thus mimicking the behavior of emerging insects. 

• Jun Kebari: This fly has a more traditional hackle orientation, similar to Western dry flies. It easily adapts to different water conditions and can be a kind of joker bait.

• Futsu Kebari: This type of fly has a soft hook that moves naturally in the water, imitating various aquatic insects. It is a good choice for targeting fish such as Trout and Grayling.

• Dry Flies: Made to mimic adult insects on the water's surface, they are primarily used to attract Trout, especially during the hatching season when the fish feed on the surface.

• Nymphs: These imitate immature stages of aquatic insects and are very effective for spearfishing. They can be used to target a variety of species, including Trout and Bass.

Each bait has a different presentation type, depending on a fish's age, behavior, and kind. Having them as much as possible in fishing tackle is always a good option. 

Saltwater

Although less common, tenkara fishing can also be adapted for marine environments. The best option for this is to use the following flyers. 

• Shrimp Patterns: Yes, there is such a thing as flies created to imitate shrimp. They attract a wide range of saltwater species.

• Clouser Minnows: Versatile bait that imitates small baitfish and is effective for catching species such as Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Sea Trout.

• Crayfish Patterns: These are very realistically imitated crayfish movements and are great for targeting species such as Redfish, Permit, and Bonefish. Their realistic appearance and movement can provoke aggressive blows.

Most of these are classic saltwater baits used for various techniques, so finding them in any fishing store shouldn't be a problem.

Where to Do Tenkara Fishing

Keep in mind that tenkara is created primarily for fishing in rivers, and it's where it shows the best of its glory. However, that only stopped many tenkara enthusiasts from using it in various fishing spots.

Mountain Streams and Rivers

Mountain streams and rivers are ideal for tenkara fishing since all elements are adapted to clear, fast water and the fish that live there. Mountain waters are usually very clean and clear and full of Trout (Rainbow, Brook).

Together with Grayling, these fish thrive and enjoy life to the fullest in these cold, oxygen-rich waters. In addition, the natural beauty and challenging conditions of the mountain streams complete all the magic of tenkara fishing.

Spring Creeks

Spring streams, fed by permanent groundwater sources, offer beautiful, clean, clear water and a gentle current that is excellent for tenkara fishing. You will find beautiful specimens of various notable Trout species in streams that provide a stable flow and moderate weather conditions.

Lakes and Ponds

Although they are not a traditional environment for tenkara, it is possible to catch Walleye, Bass, and Trout because they are predominantly calm waters. Adjusting the choice of flies and using longer rods is enough for the tenkara to show its enticing power and elegance here. 

Coastal Bays and Estuaries

Coastal bays and estuaries are magical places where rivers meet the sea. The meeting points of salt and fresh water result in a very nutritious, rich environment, so-called brackish waters, with enough flow rhythm to perform tenkara catch of various fish, including Sea Trout and Sea Bass. 

Beaches and Surfing Zones

Shallow coastal areas with waves and sandy bottoms, such as beaches and surf zones, are great for experimenting with tenkara. With a little luck, you can catch species such as Flounder and small Striped Bass. Light gear and a simple setup make it easy to move around the beach and cast into the waves.

Urban and Suburban Streams

Urban and suburban streams offer excellent tenkara fishing opportunities close to home if kept clean and maintained. Depending on where you live, these streams may contain Trout, Bass, and Walleye species. The advantage is easy access and the opportunity to practice daily tenkara in different conditions. 

Specific Tenkara Strategies

Tenkara fishing, like chess, can be executed minimalistically but through several strategies adapted to different conditions and fish behavior. Here are a few of the most popular.

Drifting

One of the most popular strategies in all of fishing. Tenkara drifting is interpreted to allow flies to move naturally with the current, mimicking the drift of insects in the water.

You should cast the fly upstream and let it float downstream, keeping the line out of the water, then use patching to adjust the line position and maintain a natural drift. Your best bet is to focus on seams, eddies, and places behind rocks where fish will likely be waiting for food.

Pulse

This is a technique where you give short, gentle jerks to the fly, mimicking the movement of an insect or bait. It's best to do this with brief flicks of the rod to give the fly small, rhythmic pulses, timing it occasionally to give the impression of a struggling insect. It is best to perform it with inverted flies (Sakasa Kebari) since they move enticingly with each pulse, attracting fish.

High Sticking

High-sticking means holding the rod high to keep as much line as possible away from the water, thus improving control and reducing drag. Use a short line to make it easier to maintain direct contact with the fly.

It's your job to keep the rod tip high to lift the line off the water and minimize current disturbance. This is a great strategy for fast-water fishing, where precise fly control is key.

Dapping Downstream

Dapping downstream means placing the fly directly on the surface of the water, which is particularly effective in fast currents or turbulent water. You need to hold the rod high and extend it downstream so the fly floats with the current and mimics a struggling insect.

Dead Drifting

As the name suggests, the dead drifting allows the fly to float naturally without any additional movement. It imitates a dead or floating insect. To do this, cast upstream or across the current and let the fly float naturally, keeping the line out of the water to reduce drag and ensure a natural drift.

Final Thoughts

It's such a modest technique, but it offers so much! Profitable, minimalistic, and yet requires engagement of the mind and intuition. And for those who like to connect philosophy and fishing, it is an ideal technique.

Whatever your goal, remember that tenkara's essence lies in its simplicity and adaptability. We recommend accepting the challenge, enjoying the process, and letting the beauty of tenkara fishing deepen your appreciation for fishing in general.

Finally, we want to hear your opinion! Share your tenkara fishing experiences, tips, and favorite spots in the comments below. Do you have beginner tips or unique insights into tenkara fishing in different environments? Let's build a community of tenkara enthusiasts together!