Episode 79 | The 12 Stages of Backcountry Tenkara
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Summary
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan discusses the 12 Stages of backcountry Tenkara fly fishing.
Take the Course
In this Episode:
This episode is targeted to the backcountry angler who may be new to tenkara fly fishing, to help them understand (1) how tenkara fishing fits into the overall backcountry experience, and (2) the process of stalking, casting to, and catching fish.
- Stage 1 – Select Gear. Choose your Tenkara rod, line, flies, accessories, tools, and supplies.
- Stage 2- Plan a Hike. Use online mapping, fisheries and land management agency regulations, streamflow data, and other beta to discover and prepare for fishing in the backcountry.
- Stage 3 – Rigging. Lines, leaders, tippets, and knots.
- Stage 4 – Survey. Study where you’re fishing to learn where fish lie and to help you plan your approach.
- Stage 5 – Approach. Use stealth tactics to put yourself in position to cast.
- Stage 6 – Cast. This is the heart of the art and practice of tenkara.
- Stage 7 – Manage Drift. Plan where you want your fly to go and use the rod to guide it.
- Stage 8 – Fly Movement. Manipulate your fly and impart motion to it to elicit strikes.
- Stage 9 – Hook Set. Detect the strike, set the hook. Fish on!
- Stage 10 – Landing. Get the fish to net, and prepare it for release – or the fry pan!
- Stage 11 – Hook Removal. Your safety – and the safety and health of the fish – depend on effectively and carefully removing the hook.
- Stage 12 – Release (Cook). Revive and release the fish to ensure its maximum chance of survival. Or for the backcountry chef, ensure a great meal!
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Credits
Executive Producer - Backpacking Light; Show Director and Host - Ryan Jordan; Producer - Chase Jordan; Theme music: Look for Me in the Mountains written by Chris Cunningham and Ryan Jordan, performed by Chris Cunningham (acoustic guitar, lead and harmony vocals, harmonica), Chad Langford (upright bass), and Tom Murphy (mandolin), produced by Basecamp Studios in Bozeman, Montana.
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Disclosure
Sponsorship Policy: Backpacking Light does not accept compensation or donated/discounted products in exchange for product mentions or placements in editorial coverage, including any podcast episode content not excplicitly identified as sponsored content. Some (but not all) of the links in these show notes may be affiliate links. Learn more about affiliate commissions, influencer marketing, and our consumer advocacy work by reading our article Stop wasting money on gear.
Discussion
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Companion forum thread to: Episode 79 | Tenkara
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan discusses the 12 Stages of backcountry Tenkara fly fishing.
Become a member to post in the forums.