BARBLESS TENKARA FLIES
Sakasa Kebari, the traditional Tenkara flies you can find here tied on barbless hooks
Sakasa Kebari are traditional Japanese fly patterns developed specifically for tenkara fishing. Their most distinctive feature is the soft hackle fibres pointing forward, creating a pronounced silhouette and exceptionally lifelike movement underwater. These pulsating fibres imitate the motion of natural insects and make Sakasa Kebari highly effective in many fishing situations. They perfectly embody the minimalist philosophy of tenkara fishing, where simplicity, presentation, and efficiency are more important than complexity. All our tenkara flies are tied on barbless hooks and inspired by classic Sakasa Kebari designs. The combination of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern effectiveness makes these flies an essential part of any tenkara setup. Discover the fascinating simplicity of tenkara fishing with these carefully tied patterns.
TENKARA FLIES – LESS IMITATION, MORE PRESENTATION
Traditional Tenkara flies differ from many Western fly patterns in one fundamental way: rather than imitating a specific insect as closely as possible, they rely on simplicity, balance and lifelike movement in the water. The focus is not on perfectly matching a mayfly or caddis, but on creating an overall impression that encourages fish to take the fly.
The best-known traditional pattern is the Sakasa Kebari, instantly recognisable by its characteristic forward-facing soft hackle (reverse hackle). However, Sakasa Kebari is only one of several classic Japanese styles. Other traditional patterns, including Futsu Kebari and Jun Kebari, differ mainly in the orientation and type of hackle used. What they all share is a deliberately simple design that has been refined over generations of fishing in Japan's mountain streams.
THE HACKLE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
The defining feature of a Sakasa Kebari is its soft, forward-facing hackle, traditionally tied from materials such as partridge, pheasant or hen. Underwater, these fibres create an exceptionally natural movement. Even the slightest lift or pause of the rod tip causes the hackle to open, pulse and collapse again, giving the impression of a living organism without attempting to imitate any particular insect species.
PRESENTATION MATTERS MORE THAN THE PATTERN
In traditional Tenkara fishing, the way the fly is presented is often more important than the pattern itself. Besides allowing the fly to drift naturally, anglers frequently animate it with subtle rod-tip movements or short pauses. These gentle pulses bring the soft hackle to life, making the fly appear to "breathe" beneath the surface. Trout in fast-flowing mountain streams often respond more readily to this delicate animation than to a completely drag-free drift. A remarkably similar approach can be found in the Italian Pesca alla Valsesiana, whose historic flies also feature forward-facing hackles.
ONE FLY, SEVERAL WAYS TO FISH IT
Kebari are surprisingly versatile. Without floatant, they are typically fished just below or within the surface film, behaving much like a traditional wet fly. Applying a small amount of floatant to the hackle or leader allows the very same pattern to fish in or on the surface film, similar to a dry fly. This adaptability reflects one of the core principles of traditional Tenkara: rather than constantly changing flies, anglers adjust the presentation to suit the conditions.
TIED TO A HIGH STANDARD
Our Tenkara flies are tied on premium barbless Dohiku hooks and are inspired by traditional Japanese patterns. Whether you choose a classic Sakasa Kebari or another proven style, every fly combines meticulous craftsmanship, quality materials and the lively action that makes Tenkara flies so effective on the water.