I take tenkara everywhere!

The Tenkara Guy

February 2025

By Zane Jacobs

Many times throughout my life I have heard people say that their chosen activity has taken them so many places. While I can understand the philosophical mindset they have, I can’t say I entirely agree. I have been fishing with flies for the better part of my life, but I can’t really say it has taken me anywhere.

Maybe it is due to my passion for fly fishing not hitting its stride until my late thirties. From there I developed a love for tenkara. I’m not saying I haven’t gone anywhere specifically to fish. I’m saying that fly fishing was not the guide to get me there. It is more or less the opposite. “Look where I took tenkara” would serve as a better phrase.

Photo by Adrian Fuentes.

The mobility of tenkara is outstanding. I am partial to rods that are often called a novelty due to their small dimensions. My favorite rods can fit in my favorite sling pack without causing a fuss. I even have a couple of rods that fit comfortably in a pocket. If a rod can be compressed down to under a foot long, it’s the rod for me. My affinity for such rods means I always have one with me.

I have taken tenkara on long hikes where I didn’t know if there was water. Tenkara has joined me at scummy little ponds off of forest service roads. I’ve taken it to the ocean, lakes, streams, rivers, creeks, cricks, springs, and whatever else you want to call a water source. I’ve carried it all throughout my journeys and I don’t plan to stop. Later this year I have a trip planned to Scotland and tenkara is coming with me just in case. I’m not going there to fish, but I’m taking fly fishing along for the ride.

Photo by Zane Jacobs.

I will often include fly fishing into the plans I make, but I would still go without it. For me, tenkara has made the option to include fly fishing much easier. Even with a 4-piece fly rod I would opt out of toting it along on many occasions. It felt cumbersome and unnecessary. I already carry plenty of cameras and equipment. I don’t need to add a bunch of fishing accessories to the mix. Tenkara only takes up the space of a Slim Jim and a Ritz cracker. I’d say that’s a bit better than a broomstick and a Moon Pie.

One day fly fishing might take me somewhere I wouldn’t have gone otherwise. I would love for that to be the case. Anyone who wants to sponsor a trip for me is more than welcome to. I could certainly consider that as the activity bringing me along. Until that day comes, I will gladly drag tenkara with me, willing or not.