The 1st Step 360 rod is is specially designed to be “the Starter” . It gives you all the precision in casting you could possibly want and sufficient backbone to handle larger fish in smaller areas. With a very gradual transition from the softer tip sections to the stiffer mid and butt sections, you will find casting stroke is remarkably smooth. . It has certain additional strength to reduce the risk of harm which can be inherent in beginners. This rod is optimal for casting level lines #3.5-#4 and light-weighted 3,6 m furled lines. In windy conditions it will not find itself overburdened with the #4.5 size or heavy-weighted furled lines.
Closed length: 56,5 cm
Weight: 86 grams
Handle length: 28 cm
Number of segments: 8
Closed length: 57,5 cm
Weight: 56 grams
Handle length: 23 cm
Number of segments: 7 Action: 6:4
Closed length: 57,5 cm
Weight: 62 grams
Handle length: 27 cm
Number of segments: 8 Action: 6:4
Tenkara rods represent a beautifully minimalist approach to fly fishing, stripping away the complexity of reels and excess tackle in favor of a simple, elegant fixed-line system. Originating from Japanese mountain streams, these telescoping rods collapse to a compact length for easy carrying on long hikes into remote waters. Anglers appreciate how the design lets them focus entirely on presentation and reading the water rather than managing equipment. The result is a more meditative, connected experience with the sport that has drawn devoted practitioners worldwide who value both the tradition and the practical effectiveness of the method.
The feel of a tenkara rod during the cast is one of its most distinctive qualities, allowing anglers to sense the energy loading through every section of the blank. Different rod flex profiles offer varied casting experiences, from deep, slow bends suited for delicate presentations to stiffer tip sections that transmit sharper feedback. This sensitivity becomes especially valuable when fishing classic wet flies, where detecting subtle takes requires intimate contact with the line. Anglers often describe how the rod becomes an extension of their own movement, making each cast an intuitive, flowing motion that traditional tackle setups can sometimes complicate.
Choosing the right tenkara rod involves considering length, weight, and the type of water you plan to fish. Shorter rods excel in tight quarters with overhanging vegetation, while longer rods help manage line on wider streams and open rivers. Lightweight construction matters for long days of casting and for those who count every gram in their pack. Many anglers begin with a versatile mid-length model that handles a range of conditions, then add specialized rods as their preferences and fishing grounds expand. The variety available today means there is genuinely a rod suited to nearly every style.
Beyond the rod itself, tenkara fishing relies on a thoughtful collection of lines, flies, and small accessories that complete the system. Lines come in different lengths, weights, and tapered designs to match various rod actions and fishing situations. Kebari, the traditional Japanese-style flies, are versatile patterns that imitate a wide range of aquatic life and work effectively across countless waters. Simple accessories like line holders, spools, and tippet spools round out a kit that remains refreshingly compact compared to conventional fly fishing gear, embodying the philosophy that less often means more on the stream.
Closed length: 57,5 cm
Weight: 82 grams
Handle length: 28 cm
Number of segments: 9
The WaterShed TM rods are the premium rods. They are based on the The Tenkara Times guiding design principles: a full flex blank with a stiffer tip. The WaterShed rod series is softer than the TRY rods and it is targeted at more experienced tenkara anglers. It casts #2-3 level effortlessly and does it’s job very well: which is to place the fly where you want it to go. The blank has a matte dark grey finish with a short glossy section near the handle where the model name is printed. The best possible cork is used for the grip. We recommend using tippets no stronger than 5X.
WaterShed 300Z is the best for small overgrown streams. The zoom function gives you the ability to adjust the rod length to the fishing room size.
Closed length: 52,5 cm
Weight: 59 grams
Handle length: 23 cm
Number of segments: 7
Action: 6:4
Testimonials & critics:
This 13 ft. (390 cm) rod was LIGHT! http://www.tenkaratalk.com/2013/09/tenkara-times-try-390-73-rod
The review is at Grayling Society Magazine pages >>
David Walker (US):
It is a joy to cast. The Watershed is light, well balanced and very comfortable to cast for long periods holding the grip at the butt end of the rod...I fished mostly with 5m of #3.5 PALS level line. + 1 m of tippet. It was easy to cast the line out to full extension on most cast without having to concentrate on the cast. The flex of the rod practically cast the line itself. As with the TRY 390 rod, the
Watershed 400
bumped out another rod from my list of top five favorite tenkara rods. I find both of the TT rods I have tried are very good rods and the best rods for the price available.
Tom Davis (US)
: I like this rod. I have been impressed with all of Tenkara Times rods. I like their weight, balance and casting characteristics. The
Watershed 360
is no exception. It is a very nice rod and would give any tenkara fisher outstanding performance.
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