Inside My Tenkara Fishing Kit
Welcome, fellow angler ~
Below is everything I use in my personal tenkara fishing setup. This is not a “you need to buy all of this” list. I made a TikTok that went kind of viral because of what I carry, and figured I’d write it all out here as well, with links (some affiliate) to the exact products I use.
Enjoy!
1. My Tenkara Rod
The rod I use is the Tenkara USA HANE. It’s my one and only ride-or-die rod. The way it feels when casting is unbeatable to me. I wanted to truly learn and master a single rod, and I feel like I’m there with this one.
It’s an ultra-compact, 3.5-ounce rod that collapses down to 15 inches, making it perfect for tossing in my bag when hiking. It’s an all-around rod that extends out to a mighty 10.8 feet and handles a wide range of water really well.
This rod has been with me from the Texas coast to the mountains of Montana, and it has never failed me.
Even when I broke a rod tip in New York, I was able to purchase a replacement part without buying an entirely new rod. That kind of support goes a long way, I’m a big Tenkara USA fan.
2. My Tenkara Line + Tippet Wheel
I use the Tenkara USA “keeper” wheel to hold my line and tippet. It has a spot to hook the fly you’re using, which makes it easy to connect to the lilian and unwind your line quickly. There’s also a small compartment to hold flies. It’s a simple system that helps me get on the water faster.
3. My Fly Box
My fly box is pretty straightforward. I carry a small selection of nymphs, streamers, worms, and topwater flies. I like having options in case I need to switch things up, or if I lose a fly to a branch while fishing (smh).
4. My Essential Tools
Tool-wise, all I carry are forceps, nippers, and a net. Those three things are enough to help me land a fish safely, de-hook it with care, and cut my line quickly when changing flies.
As time goes on, I might add a few things here and there, but if you’re aiming for a minimalist tenkara setup, these are the only tools you really need.
5. My Tenkara Chest Pack
I carry everything in my Fishpond Chest Pack. This pack holds all of my tenkara essentials, from my fly box to my wallet. When I want to fish a nearby pond or creek, I just grab the pack and go.
It even holds my rod in one of the elastic holders and keeps everything else organized inside. If you’re looking for something compact yet practical, I couldn’t recommend it enough.
6. My Add-Ons
A few other essentials will vary depending on the weather and conditions. I always bring polarized sunglasses (I wear Goodr) and a hat. Both help protect from sun exposure, and the sunglasses are especially important for eye protection in case a hook comes flying back at you. Don’t forget water! Stay hydrated kids.
What to Take Tenkara Fishing
What I love most about tenkara fishing is how much less of a production it is compared to fishing with a conventional rod. All I need is a handful of flies, a small pack, my rod, a packable net, and a few tools. I can walk out the door and be fishing within minutes.
Build a setup that fits your style. We all fish in different conditions—what works in a colder climate might not be necessary in a hotter one. Experiment, refine, and let your tenkara kit evolve over time.
