TENKARA - THE PUREST FORM OF FLY FISHING
Everything you need for tenkara fishing
The roots of classic Tenkara style fishing lie in Japan, but this very minimalist fishing technique is now appreciated by an ever-growing number of anglers worldwide. For the vast majority, the philosophy of omission is so appealing, because Tenkara reduces fly fishing to the essentials, which is precisely why it is so exciting. Due to the clearly arranged equipment, Tenkara is a good first step into the world of fly fishing for many beginners. However, Tenkara does not mean tip fishing or catching only small fish. What you can save on equipment, you compensate with skill, knowledge and experience, according to the motto: The more I know, the less I need. But when you're out and about with a minimum of equipment, it has to be of high quality and perfectly suited to the purpose. In this product category, we have put together the best equipment for you so that you too can dive into this minimalist technique of fishing with a fly.
TENKARA – FLY FISHING REDUCED TO THE ESSENTIALS
Tenkara is a traditional Japanese method of fly fishing that originated in the small mountain streams of Japan. It is characterised by its simple, minimalist equipment and remarkable effectiveness. In Japan, this style of fly fishing has a long-standing tradition.
Its appeal goes far beyond simply catching fish. The contemplative experience and the direct connection with the water, the fish and nature are just as important as the fishing itself. It is precisely this minimalist philosophy that has made Tenkara increasingly popular around the world in recent years.
The equipment essentially consists of a long, telescopic rod. Tenkara is fished without a reel, with a fixed line attached directly to the rod tip. This setup is traditionally used to present Tenkara flies, the so-called Sakasa Kebari.
VALSESIANA & TENKARA – SURPRISINGLY SIMILAR
The Japanese Tenkara technique shares remarkable similarities with the historic Italian "pesca a mosca Valsesiana", even though both fishing methods developed completely independently.
However, traditional Valsesiana flies are tied differently and are more closely related to classic English spider wet flies. The fishing techniques also differ in several respects. In traditional pesca Valsesiana, anglers usually fish three flies simultaneously, the so-called "trenini Valsesiani", whereas Tenkara is generally practised with just a single fly.
ANYONE CAN LEARN TENKARA FISHING
Tenkara is not only exceptionally easy to learn, but also offers several significant advantages. Besides its minimalist and relatively affordable equipment, this style of fly fishing is extremely effective, particularly on small streams and rivers.
Thanks to the relatively long Tenkara rods, typically measuring 320 to 400 cm, the fly can be presented naturally for longer periods without the line being constantly affected by conflicting currents or requiring continuous mending. This makes achieving a natural, drag-free drift much easier.
The risk of spooking fish is also greatly reduced, as false casts are rarely required and the fly can be presented with great delicacy and precision from a safe distance. At the same time, Tenkara offers an exceptionally direct connection between the rod, the line and the fly.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR TENKARA FISHING
Are you fascinated by this minimalist approach to fly fishing and would like to experience it yourself? In our online fly fishing shop, you'll find everything you need to get started with Tenkara:
- Discover our selection of high-quality Tenkara rods. We offer various models in different lengths and actions, making it easy to find the perfect rod for your favourite waters.
- We also stock a wide range of expertly tied Sakasa Kebari, the traditional flies used in Tenkara fishing.
- Of course, you'll also find specialised Tenkara lines, allowing you to cast accurately and maintain precise control over the drift of your fly.
- Our range is completed by practical Tenkara accessories, including fly boxes, line winders and retrofit hook keepers.