Best Tenkara Rod For Backpacking (2024 Updated)

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Tenkara is a traditional Japanese method of fly fishing that has gained popularity in recent years, especially among backpackers and hikers. The simplicity and effectiveness of this technique make it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy fly fishing while traveling light. However, choosing the best tenkara rod for backpacking can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you are new to this sport. In this article, we will provide you with a short guide on what to consider when looking for the best tenkara rod for backpacking.

Firstly, you should consider the length and weight of the rod. A shorter and lighter rod is easier to carry and maneuver, but it may not be suitable for larger fish or windy conditions. Secondly, the material of the rod is also important. Carbon fiber rods are more durable and flexible than fiberglass or bamboo rods, but they may be more expensive. Thirdly, the action of the rod affects its sensitivity and casting performance. A fast action rod is more responsive and powerful, while a slow action rod is more forgiving and accurate. Fourthly, the grip and handle of the rod should be comfortable and ergonomic, especially if you plan to fish for long periods. Lastly, you should consider the price and warranty of the rod, as well as the brand reputation and customer reviews.

In summary, when looking for the best tenkara rod for backpacking, you should consider the length, weight, material, action, grip, price, warranty, and brand reputation. By choosing a rod that suits your needs and preferences, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of fly fishing in the wilderness.

10 Best Tenkara Rod For Backpacking

1. 10ft10in Tenkara Usa Hane Rod: Super Compact All-Around Fly Fishing Rod For Small & Medium Fish, Carbon Fiber & Lightweight With Case.

The Tenkara USA Fly Fishing HANEâ„¢ Rod with Case is a popular choice among anglers for its super compact design and versatility in various fishing conditions. Made with carbon fiber, this lightweight rod is perfect for small and medium-sized fish, making it an excellent all-around adventure rod.

One of the most significant advantages of the HANE is its compact and lightweight design. Measuring just under 15 inches when collapsed, this rod extends to 10ft 10in (330cm) when assembled, making it easy to carry in a small day pack for backpacking, bikefishing, and other adventures. Additionally, its ultra-portable design makes it a popular choice for kids.

The HANE is also an ideal choice for beginners who are new to the tenkara method of fly fishing. The tenkara method is considered an excellent approach for beginners, and the HANE, along with the Sato and Iwana, is among the most popular tenkara rods for beginners. Its versatility, ease of use, and compact design make it an excellent choice for those new to the sport.

For those who enjoy fishing in small streams or tight waters, the HANE's compact design makes it a perfect option. It's a great rod to tag along on any adventure of your choice, without compromising on durability.

At Tenkara USA, we stand behind our products and offer a lifetime warranty on all our rods. Our responsive team of tenkara anglers is always available to help with any questions or concerns you may have about your tenkara rod or other gear we make. We strive to provide the best customer service possible and will do everything we can to quickly get you back in the water.

In conclusion, the Tenkara USA Fly Fishing HANEâ„¢ Rod with Case is an excellent option for those who are looking for a versatile, compact, and lightweight tenkara rod. Its popularity among anglers, beginners, and kids, is a testament to its quality and performance. Whether you're targeting trout in a mountain stream or bass in an urban pond, the HANE is an adventure rod that won't disappoint.

2. Reyr Gear's First Cast Fly Rod Combo – Portable Telescoping Fishing Gear For Travel And Backpacking, 4wt Blue Rod And Reel With Right-Hand Rod/lh Retrieve.

Introducing the REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo, the ultimate solution for fly fishing enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of casting a line in new and exciting locations. This innovative product is designed for easy setup and fast performance, making it perfect for both novice and experienced anglers.

The REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo boasts a no-knot setup with a pre-rigged telescoping fly rod, which means that making the first cast is a breeze, even for those who are new to fly fishing. What's more, the travel fishing rod functions like your tenkara rods and traditional fly rods, only better! The FIRST CAST internal-lined graphite fly rod combines the best of those styles and boasts a med-fast action, providing the perfect balance of speed and accuracy.

The REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo is innovatively designed, with the fly line running inside the rod to remove eyelets that can break during travel on other telescoping rods. The fishing rod has a CNC aluminum reel (75mm OD) with an adjustable carbon drag. The crank reel flips left/right, making it easy to retrieve the line with ease.

The REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo is portable and easy to carry, weighing only 9 oz and packing down to 19 inches. It comes with a 2 oz neoprene case that fits inside most backpacks and under car seats, making it perfect for those who love to travel and explore new locations.

The REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo is available in two versions, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers alike. These collapsible fly rods extend up to 9 ft and are available in 4WT(19 inches collapsed) for general trout fishing and smaller streams, and 6WT(17 inches collapsed) for bass, carp or bigger fish.

In conclusion, the REYR Gear – First CAST Fly Rod, Telescoping Travel Fly Rod and Reel Combo is a game-changer for fly fishing enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of casting a line in new and exciting locations. With its innovative design, fast performance, and portability, this product is sure to become a favorite for anglers of all skill levels.

3. Reyr Gear's Telescoping Travel Fly Rod And Reel Combo Is The First Cast Fly Rod, Perfect For Backpacking And Travel. It Features A 6wt Fishing Rod With A Red Reel And Right-Hand Rod/left-Hand Retrieve.

Introducing the REYR Gear First CAST Fly Rod and Reel Combo, the ultimate portable fly fishing gear for traveling and backpacking. This innovative telescoping travel fly rod and reel combo is designed to provide quick and easy setup, making it perfect for anglers of all levels.

Featuring a no-knot setup with a pre-rigged telescoping fly rod, the REYR Gear First CAST Fly Rod and Reel Combo is designed for fast performance. The internal-lined graphite fly rod has a med-fast action, combining the best of traditional fly rods and tenkara rods to provide unparalleled performance.

The REYR Gear First CAST Fly Rod and Reel Combo is innovatively designed with the fly line running inside the telescopic rod, eliminating the need for eyelets that can break during travel. The CNC aluminum reel (75mm OD) features an adjustable carbon drag and can be flipped left or right for easy line retrieval.

At only 9 oz in weight and packing down to 19 inches, this collapsible fly rod combo is incredibly portable and easy to carry. It comes with a 2 oz neoprene case that fits inside most backpacks and under car seats, making it perfect for any adventure.

The REYR Gear First CAST Fly Rod and Reel Combo is available in two versions, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers. The 4WT (19 inches collapsed) version is perfect for general trout fishing and smaller streams, while the 6WT (17 inches collapsed) version is ideal for bass, carp, or bigger fish.

In summary, the REYR Gear First CAST Fly Rod and Reel Combo is an innovative and portable fly fishing gear that is perfect for traveling and backpacking. With its quick and easy setup, fast performance, and innovative design, this telescoping travel fly rod and reel combo is the ultimate choice for any angler looking to seize their next big catch.

4. Tenkara Fly Fishing Starter Kit With 12ft Graphite Rod, Hard Tube Case, Fly Box, Flies And 3 Lines.

The Wild Water Complete Tenkara Fly Fishing Starter Package is an all-in-one package that is perfect for those who are new to the world of tenkara fly fishing. This package includes a 12-foot extendable graphite rod with a 6:4 rod action made of durable IM8 graphite. The 9-section rod pole kit is lightweight, weighing in at just 3 ounces. The cork handle is 9 3/4 inches long and comes with a wooden plug for protecting the rod during storage. The end cap is aluminum and has a laser-etched Wild Water logo. The knurl on the end cap allows for easy disassembly of the entire rod for cleaning and replacing sections.

The Wild Water Fly Fishing Starter Package also includes a protective rod case, which is made of durable nylon and comes with a soft, stretchy rod sock for travel and storage. The case features a 22-inch PVC rod tube and a carrying strap, making it easy to transport the rod to your favorite fishing spot. Additionally, this starter package comes with a waterproof fly box that can hold up to 372 flies. The fly box comes with twelve flies to get you started, including black, olive, tan, and hi-vis orange indicator kebari and tan hen & hound flies.

To make your tenkara fishing experience even better, the Wild Water Fly Fishing Starter Package includes three different types of tenkara fishing lines. The traditional tenkara line is 10.5 feet of chartreuse furled polyester line with a metal ring to attach tippet. The modern floating PVC tenkara line is 11 feet of blue-colored PVC floating line with a welded loop for tippet. The modern hybrid tenkara line is 15 feet of olive-colored PVC floating line with a polyester-furled level line and a metal ring to attach tippet.

In addition to the rod, case, fly box, and lines, the Wild Water Fly Fishing Starter Package includes several accessories that will make your tenkara fishing experience more enjoyable. The foam spool is perfect for storing your line when not in use, and the plastic line storage clip set with o-rings will help keep your lines organized. The 30-meter spool of 5X tippet is perfect for catching trout or panfish, and the line nipper and retractable reel make it easy to fish in small to medium-sized streams and ponds. The rod's size and carrying case make it perfect for backpacking, so you can easily take it with you on all of your outdoor adventures.

Overall, the Wild Water Complete Tenkara Fly Fishing Starter Package is an excellent choice for those who are new to tenkara fishing. With everything you need to get started, including a durable rod, protective case, waterproof fly box, and three different types of tenkara fishing lines, this starter package is perfect for catching trout or panfish in small to medium-sized streams and ponds.

5. Goture 12ft Tenkara Rod Kit – Portable Carbon Fiber Fly Fishing Combo With Line & Lures For Travel, Trout, Bass, Crappie, Saltwater & Freshwater.

The Goture 12FT/3.6M Tenkara Rod Kit is an exceptional product that offers a complete package for fly fishing enthusiasts. This kit includes a 30T carbon fiber portable telescopic fly fishing rod combo with line lures carrier bag for travel trout bass crappie saltwater freshwater.

One of the standout features of this tenkara rod is the extra free tip set that comes with each kit. Each tenkara rod comes with an extra tip (top 2 section) for replacement, ensuring that users can continue fishing without any interruptions.

The high-quality tenkara rod is made of solid IM8+10 carbon fiber material rod blank, making it lightweight while staying strong enough to handle a variety of fish. The AAA+ cork grip or carbon fiber grip is ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue and calluses after a long time of fishing. The aluminum alloy butt cap is anti-rust and more durable than any other cheap plastic.

The classical size and action of the Goture tenkara rod make it the best all-around rod for beginners and any experience level. The 7:3 action and 12ft length allow the tenkara to handle a variety of fish, even giving the angler the chance to fight with large fishes. Its light action makes casting quite easy, and fighting fish is fun but can get interesting. It can be widely used for trout, panfish, small to medium streams, ponds, and backpacking.

The 12ft, 13 sections, collapsed rod length of only 14 inches make it easy to put the tenkara rod into your bag and convenient to carry. It's a great choice to take backpacking for its lightweight. The complete tenkara package contains any tool you need for fishing, no need for any other preparation, just take our rod box and go!

Goture offers a six-month worry-free after-sales guarantee and unlimited consultation services to do their best to solve any problems that users may experience with their products. They are committed to doing everything they can to solve the problem as soon as possible.

In conclusion, the Goture 12FT/3.6M Tenkara Rod Kit is a must-have for any fly fishing enthusiast. Its high-quality construction, classical size and action, and complete package make it an exceptional product that offers value for money. With the added bonus of a six-month warranty, users can trust that they are getting a product that is built to last.

6. Dragontail Mizuchi Zx340 Zoom Small Stream 3 Length Tenkara Rod (With Level Line Starter Kit)

The DRAGONtail MIZUCHI zx340 Zoom Small Stream 3 Length Tenkara Rod is a versatile and functional tool for any angler. This innovative rod is designed to accommodate tight spots and open casting, making it perfect for small streams, backpackers, and young, growing kids.

This rod is co-designed by Tom Davis of Teton Tenkara, ensuring that it is built with the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship. The rod features three lengths in one, measuring 8ft, 9.6ft, and 11ft, which makes it an ideal pick for any fishing situation.

The package comes complete with a hard case and sock, making it easy to transport and protect. Additionally, it includes a spool of level line, two line holders, three flies, and tippet, ensuring that you have everything you need to get started.

The DRAGONtail MIZUCHI zx340 Zoom Small Stream 3 Length Tenkara Rod is designed to be a great fit for small streams, backpackers, and young growing kids. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle, while its three-length feature allows it to adapt to any fishing situation.

As a USA-based company, DRAGONtail provides excellent customer support, ensuring that you get the best possible experience with your purchase. The DRAGONtail MIZUCHI zx340 Zoom Small Stream 3 Length Tenkara Rod is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and durable fishing rod that can handle any fishing situation.

7. Goture Tenkara Rod Kit – Telescopic Fly Fishing Rod With Carry Case For Streams, Trout, Bass, Crappie, Salmon (11-13ft)

The Goture Tenkara Rod Kit is a high-quality and versatile fishing rod that comes with a variety of features and accessories that make it perfect for anglers of all experience levels. Made from solid IM8+10 carbon fiber material, the rod is both lightweight and strong, ensuring that it can handle a variety of fish without weighing you down.

One of the standout features of this rod is its ergonomic design. The AAA+ cork grip or carbon fiber grip is designed to reduce hand fatigue and calluses, making it comfortable to use even after a long day of fishing. The aluminum alloy butt cap is also anti-rust and more durable than other cheap plastic alternatives.

At 12ft in length, this rod is the perfect all-around size and action for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Its 7:3 action makes casting easy, while its strength allows it to handle a variety of fish, including trout, panfish, and even larger species. It's a versatile tool that can be used in small to medium streams, ponds, and even for backpacking.

The Goture Tenkara Rod Kit also comes with an extra tip set for replacement, ensuring that you can continue to use the rod even if one of the tips becomes damaged. The rod collapses down to only 14 inches, making it easy to pack and carry in the included carrying case. The package also includes all the tools you need for fishing, so you can simply grab the rod box and go.

Finally, Goture offers a six-month worry-free after-sales guarantee and unlimited consultation services to ensure that you are satisfied with your purchase. If you experience any problems with the product, you can contact Goture at any time for assistance.

Overall, the Goture Tenkara Rod Kit is a high-quality and versatile fishing rod that is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Its lightweight design, ergonomic grip, and all-around size and action make it a great choice for a variety of fishing situations, while its included accessories and after-sales support ensure that you can use it with confidence.

8. Dragontail Shadowfire 365 12' Tenkara Rod Starter Kit With Flies, Leader, Tippet, Line Holder, Tube, And Sock.

The DRAGONtail Shadowfire 365 12' Tenkara Rod Plus Complete Starter Package is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to get started in tenkara fly fishing. This high-quality rod is made from IM 10 graphite, which is strong yet lightweight and can handle medium-sized fish. It is comparable to other mid-tier rods that are priced much higher, offering excellent value for money.

The complete starter package includes everything you need to start tenkara fly fishing. You will receive 3 soft hackle flies, ultra-premium American made furled Moonlit line, tippet, an EVA foam line holder, storage tube, and stylish rod sock. With this package, you can be sure that you have all the gear you need to get started, without having to invest in tons of expensive fly fishing gear.

One of the best things about tenkara fly fishing is its simplicity. With no reel, you can rig up quickly and hit the water. The Shadowfire 365 12' Tenkara Rod is designed with this simplicity in mind, and you can set it up in under 3 minutes. This means you can spend more time fishing and less time fiddling around with gear.

The Shadowfire Tenkara Rod is a classic rod, measuring 12 ft long and weighing only 2.9 oz. It has a 6:4 action and 8 segments, giving lots of play but also strong enough to give an experienced angler a fighting chance against larger trout. This rod is perfect for anyone who wants to fish in rivers, streams, and small ponds.

The Shadowfire Tenkara Rod is also backpacker fishing friendly. It collapses to 23.25 in, making it easy to fit into your backpack for fishing the backcountry or as a general-purpose travel fishing rod. This means you can take it with you wherever you go, whether you're backpacking, camping, or just exploring the great outdoors.

In conclusion, the DRAGONtail Shadowfire 365 12' Tenkara Rod Plus Complete Starter Package is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to get started in tenkara fly fishing. With its high-quality rod, complete starter package, simplicity, and backpacker-friendly design, you'll be able to enjoy this timeless style of fishing in no time.

9. 40l Waterproof Hiking Backpack For Men And Women, Ideal For Trekking And Camping, Orange

The SHENHU Hiking Backpack 40L is a versatile and durable daypack designed for outdoor sports, trekking, camping, and other activities. With a large storage capacity of 40L, this backpack features a multi-compartment design that includes a main zipped compartment, a zipped front pocket, and two side pockets. It also has a separator and a small zippered pocket in the main compartment, making it easy to organize all your essential items.

Made of extra thick, tear-resistant, water-resistant, and anti-abrasion polyester fiber, this backpack is built to last. All stress points are reinforced with bar tacking to increase its longevity, making it ideal for rugged outdoor adventures.

The SHENHU backpack is designed for maximum comfort, with a soft multi-panel ventilated padding that makes for maximum back airflow and support. The breathable and adjustable shoulder straps are ergonomically designed to relieve the stress on your shoulders, even when the pack is fully loaded. The backpack also features a foldable design that allows it to be easily stored in its own pocket.

Whether you're going on a day trip, a holiday, or a camping adventure, the SHENHU Hiking Backpack 40L is the perfect choice. Its sturdy shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding provide ideal comfort for daily use or extended outdoor excursions.

If you're not satisfied with the backpack, the manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Simply contact them immediately to receive a satisfactory solution.

Best Tenkara Rod For Backpacking FAQs

Are there any specific features or materials that make a tenkara rod particularly well-suited for backpacking?

Tenkara rods are popular for backpacking due to their compact size, light weight, and simplicity. The absence of a reel and minimal components reduce weight and make packing easy. The telescoping design allows for a longer rod length while remaining compact when collapsed.

Materials used in tenkara rods are also important. High-quality carbon fiber materials are often used to create lightweight, durable, and sensitive rods. Carbon fiber is also known to withstand harsh weather conditions and remain sturdy even when under pressure.

Other features that make tenkara rods ideal for backpacking include their versatility, ease of use, and affordability. Tenkara rods can be used for various fishing situations, including small streams and large rivers. The simple design also makes them easy to set up and use, even for beginners. Finally, tenkara rods are often less expensive than traditional fly fishing equipment, making them accessible to a broader range of backpackers.

How does the length and action of a tenkara rod affect its performance while backpacking?

The length and action of a tenkara rod will affect its performance while backpacking in several ways. A longer rod will allow for longer casts and greater reach, making it ideal for larger bodies of water or when fishing from a distance. However, a longer rod may also be more cumbersome to carry and handle on narrow trails.

The action of a tenkara rod refers to its flexibility and responsiveness. A faster action rod will be more sensitive and allow for quicker hook sets, but may also be more difficult to control in windy conditions. A slower action rod will be more forgiving and easier to cast, but may sacrifice sensitivity and responsiveness.

When backpacking, it is important to consider the type of water you will be fishing, the terrain you will be navigating, and your personal preferences in rod length and action. Ultimately, the right tenkara rod for backpacking will strike a balance between performance and portability.

What are some recommended tenkara rods for backpackers based on their performance, weight, and compactness?

For backpackers seeking a high-performing, lightweight, and compact tenkara rod, several options are available. One example is the Tenkara USA Sato rod, which can be adjusted to three different lengths and has a smooth, responsive action. Another is the Daiwa Kiyose SF rod, which is ultra-lightweight and collapses into a compact size for easy storage. The Nissin Royal Stage Tenkara rod is also a popular choice for backpackers, with its fast action and durable construction. Additionally, the Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth rod is a versatile and lightweight option, weighing only 2.4 ounces and packing down to just 15 inches. Overall, these tenkara rods offer the performance, weight, and compactness necessary for backpacking trips and are highly recommended by professionals in the field.

What are the lightest and most compact tenkara rods suitable for backpacking?

The lightest and most compact tenkara rods suitable for backpacking are typically those made from high-quality carbon fiber materials. These rods are designed to be both lightweight and strong, making them ideal for carrying on extended hiking trips. Some of the lightest and most compact tenkara rods available on the market today include the Tenkara USA Rhodo, the Patagonia Tenkara ZOOM, and the Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth. These rods are typically between 8-12 feet in length when fully extended, but they can be broken down into smaller pieces for easy storage and transport. Additionally, many of these rods come with their own carrying cases, which can help protect them from damage while on the trail. Ultimately, the best tenkara rod for backpacking will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so be sure to do your research and choose a rod that is right for you.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a tenkara rod for backpacking?

When choosing a tenkara rod for backpacking, there are a few important factors to consider. The first is the weight of the rod. Since backpackers need to carry all their gear with them, they want a lightweight rod that won't add too much weight to their load. The length of the rod is also important. A shorter rod is easier to pack and carry, but a longer rod can give you more reach and make it easier to cast in windy conditions. The material of the rod is also important. Carbon fiber is a popular choice because it's strong and lightweight, but there are other materials to consider as well. Finally, the price of the rod is also a consideration. Backpackers may want to look for a rod that is affordable but still of good quality. Overall, it's important to find a tenkara rod that is lightweight, durable, and easy to pack, while still being able to handle a variety of fishing conditions.

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