We spent more than three days sifting through tens of thousands of evaluations of fishing rods and interviewing some of the industry’s top professionals. Tenkara USA rods are dependably superior.
If you are interested in learning more about this form of fishing, we have a terrific Tenkara guide available here. Here are our ideas for some outstanding starting rods:
It might be difficult to choose a rod among the several possibilities on the market. Here is a short overview of some of the greatest products currently available:
Tenkara USA Hane
The carbon fiber Hane from Tenkara USA is a well-made rod with a broad EVA foam grip, red Lillian knots, and a white pattern. This rod is rather stiff, making it ideal for bigger trout and bass. On the other side, you may find it excessive while catching a little fish.
The Hane is notably nose-heavy, which we consider to be a disadvantage. If you like a rigid rod with little flex, this one should be at the top of your list. It is unquestionably sturdy and will serve you well if you wish to experiment with tenkara while still catching larger fish.
In addition, it folds down to a modest 15 inches, making it a wonderful alternative for trekking or even travelling to distant areas. This is portable and may be taken anywhere.
However, if you like something with a bit more action, consider one of our other suggestions.
Pros
- Portable and portable
- Collapses to a mere 15.”
- Well-rounded player
- Compatible with trout and bass
- Sleek, contemporary design
Cons
- Suitable for bigger fish
- Somewhat top-heavy
Wild Water Tenkara Combo
When you purchase the Wild Water Tenkara Combo, you’ll have everything you need to go fishing. You will receive everything you need, including a pamphlet with instructions on how to get started at a discount.
The Wild Water Combo is a very high-quality tenkara beginning kit. The rod is robust and long-lasting, with a modest action and moderate flex. It folds down compact, allowing you to bring it on camping vacations and spend up to two hours on the water. After a few attempts, you’ll quickly get the hang of it and be able to assemble it in minutes.
Additionally, a Lifetime Warranty is included with every purchase. If you experience any problems and require a replacement component, Wild Water provides superior customer service and will be more than pleased to assist you.
Pros
- Permanent Warranty
- Includes several valuable tools
- Complete Tenkara Kit
Cons
- Slow behavior
- Difficult to construct
Tenkara Iwana 12′ Tenkara Rod
Consider the Tenkara Iwana if fishing is about more than just bringing home a trophy-sized fish. When using the Iwana, you’ll be blown away by the precision of your casts and the delicacy of your presentation, despite the fact that you won’t be targeting large fish. Not only is it tiny and light, making it simple to carry in a backpack, but it is also constructed of high-quality materials.
The Tenkara Iwana is not the most affordable tenkara fishing rod on the market, but it is constructed to last. This purchase should not necessitate a replacement or upgrade for several years.
When utilizing the Iwana made of carbon fiber, the increased sensitivity will astound you. Instantaneous detection of strikes equates to more catches! You’ll also find that this rod will put up a fight, and you’ll feel the fish the entire time, making each hit amazing.
Pros
- Unique, eye-catching style
- Can cast accurately
- Delicate water presentation
- Appropriate for tiny fish
Cons
- Slightly more costly
- Insufficient for bigger fish
DRAGONtail Shadowfire 365 Tenkara Rod
This carbon fiber DRAGONtail Shadowfire may be precisely what you’re seeking if you’re trying out a new approach but don’t want to spend a lot of money. You may get started with tenkara fishing without putting a significant dent in your money account, as the rod is available both as part of a combination set and separately.
This rod is made from premium graphite and features a 6:4 action with the perfect amount of flex. Do not believe that you will only be able to catch little panfish with this setup; you will have no problem landing medium-sized fish.
If you’re an experienced hiker or traveler, you’ll be glad to know that it compresses to a mere 23″ in length. This makes it the ideal item to bring with you the next time you go wilderness camping.
The DRAGONtail Shadowfire is the most affordable tenkara kit on the market. We recommend it to anyone who is on the fence about tenkara and wants to give it a try, as well as to travelers seeking a lightweight, portable rod.
Pros
- Affordable starting tenkara kit
- The entire apparatus is light
- Ideal for isolated mountain stream hikes
Cons
- Rubber plug has a propensity to detach if care is not taken.
Maxcatch Tenkara Combo Kit
The Maxcatch Tenkara Combo Kit is a great option for anybody wishing to begin tenkara fishing. It consists of a rod, line, tippet, hooks, and flies, as well as a carrying case.
Regarding the rod, it is both lightweight and remarkably sturdy. This Maxcatch model, which is available in 11′, 12′, and 13′ lengths, will allow you to catch fish with ease. These models are constructed with care since they are comprised of high-quality materials. Thanks to the rotating Lillian, you won’t need to worry about your line being tangled.
This Maxcatch is an excellent option for those fishing in tiny waters. It can withstand a struggle with fish of reasonable size without breaking. The fast learning curve means that even novice anglers may begin catching fish quickly.
Pros
- Provides everything necessary
- Superior cork handles
- Lightweight but durable
- Less expensive than purchasing all equipment individually
Cons
- Slow behavior
- Some portions seem to be rather fragile
Keiryu Rod Co. Telescoping Keiryu Rod
Keiryu is another Japanese fishing method; you might say it’s the older brother of tenkara! Fishing Keiryu-style necessitates the use of stiffer rods and heavier flies or bait in order to reach the fish’s hiding places.
If you are still undecided about tenkara or if you just enjoy pursuing large trout, you should check out this high-quality telescopic rod that stretches to an astonishing 17.7 feet in length. Equally useful for tenkara enthusiasts who like to experiment with new techniques.
This set includes a Kevlar furled line and a bait line with a split shot, allowing you to fish dry flies, bait, and weighted flies. This type gives far more adaptability than conventional ones.
You’ll be shocked by how simple it is to cast — try a side cast, bow cast, or orbit cast – and how natural and fluid the presentation will be. You will not risk frightening the trout with loud water or dragging a line on the surface. As a result of the drag-free drift and enhanced strike detection, you will catch more fish!
With a short learning curve, this Keiryu rod is appropriate for anglers of all skill levels, from novice to expert. I promise that you will catch a substantial number of trout with this setup.
Pros
- 10-year guarantee
- Capable of drag-free drifting
- Natural and effective delivery
- Useful for bluegill and bass
Cons
- So sensitive
How Traditional Fly Rods Differ From Tenkara Rods?
They are distinct from conventional rods in every way. First of all, there are no reels; you must rely only on your rod. This is why tenkara rods must strike the ideal balance between delicacy and sturdiness: flexibility and accuracy to throw properly and sturdiness to land the fish.
They do not divide into distinct portions. They are instead telescoping and compressed to a tiny, compact size. This makes them ideal for hiking, camping, bike fishing, and venturing into distant, overgrown wilderness locations.
These models lack line guides as well. Instead, the end of the rod features a flexible fiber called a Lillian. The Lillian increases the rod’s motion and is also where you’ll tie a slip knot or girth hitch to attach your line (depending on the type of line you use).
Buyers Guide
Tenkara fishing is becoming increasingly popular in the United States [2]. There is something almost spiritual about simplifying your fly fishing techniques, not to mention the tremendous sensitivity you’ll experience when a fish strikes.
Before you travel to the store or browse Amazon, there are a few crucial elements to consider while searching for a quality rod.
Here you can find our picks for the finest bass fishing rod.
Length
They are longer than standard rods and often range between 10 and 15 feet in length. This enables you to simply access the likely locations where fish are hiding.
The advantage of a longer rod is not limited to a greater reach. You will also discover that they are often far more sensitive, allowing you to detect every hit swiftly and accurately.
However, if precision and accuracy are essential, you may wish to choose a shorter one. In general, shorter versions are also stronger and more durable.
Power
As there is no reel to alleviate part of the strain on the rod, power or the strength of the rod is essential. You play the fish with the rod rather than the drag on the reel.
Models with greater power and aggressive motion will be able to wear out a fish. If your goal is to catch the largest fish possible, search for a stronger rod. Although shorter variants tend to be stronger, they provide less flexibility than longer rods.
Smaller fish are better suited to rods with a light action because they bend more easily. Action, or flex, as it is referred to in tenkara fishing, might be difficult to comprehend.
Weight
Almost all of the fishing rods are lightweight. However, it is crucial to examine not just the stated weight but also how it will feel in your hand. Some rods appear to handle differently than their weight would suggest.
Handle
Nowadays, handles are often crafted from premium cork or solid EVA foam. Look for a cork handle that is ergonomic and comfy for your hands. Be wary of plastic or low-quality handles since they are prone to chipping or being destroyed rapidly.
On occasion, you might find rods with hardwood handles constructed in the traditional manner. Wood handles are more sensitive, allowing for a stronger connection with your rod, but they can be difficult on the hands after a few hours of use.
Price
You may buy reasonably priced tenkara fishing rods and even whole sets. This is ideal if you are unsure if you will love tenkara fishing or if you are on a restricted budget.
In general, though, you should get the best fishing equipment you can afford; the investment should pay off in the long run.
The Final Words
The greatest rod for Tenkara fly fishing, in our view, is the Tenkara USA Sato. It is a very light and tiny rod that fits neatly in any backpack.
This concludes our evaluations of the top tenkara fishing rods currently available. If you are interested in attempting this thrilling fishing approach, you cannot go wrong with any of these options!