How to Tie a Tenkara Knot: A 3 Step Guide

tenkara knot

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Fly fishing with a Tenkara rod is a traditional Japanese technique that’s making waves globally, particularly in the USA. These rods are a delight to fish with, perfect for novices, and incredibly portable – they can even fit in your pocket!

When fly fishing with a Tenkara rod, you bypass the reel and simply attach your Tenkara fly line or a level line to the lillian – a small piece of line at the end of the Tenkara fly rod.

There are two different knots you can use for this – both simple and efficient. Let’s dive into how to tie each of these knots.

Choosing between the two knots depends on the line materials you’re attaching to your Tenkara rod, as explained below.

How To Tie The Girth Hitch

How To Tie The Girth Hitch

This is the simpler of the two Tenkara knots and it’s a breeze to tie. This is for attaching Tenkara fly lines to your rods.

Before you begin, ensure the rod tip isn’t pulled out to prevent breakage, and that you’ve extended a section of the lillian out the top about 6 inches.

Step 1

First, tie an overhand knot at the end of the lillian, which will act as a stopper knot. Now, take your Tenkara fly line and ensure it’s laid out tangle-free.

Step 2

At one end of your Tenkara line, you’ll find a braided loop. Open up this loop, hold it wide, and pull the Tenkara line through to create a slip knot.

Step 3

Slide the loop you just created over the lillian, making sure to go past the stopper knot from step 1.

When tightening this knot, always ensure you’re holding the lillian or have closed the rod’s opening. If not, you risk snapping the tip of your Tenkara rod.

With the rod secure, pull the fly line tightly until the slip loop is seated against the stopper knot. Now, attach your tippet to the tippet ring at the other end of the line with an improved clinch knot, and you’re ready to go fly fishing for some trout.

Here is a video for you to watch explaining the knot and how to set up Tenkara rods.

How To Tie The Level Line Knot

The level line knot is slightly more complex than the girth hitch but is useful for attaching your level line, which resembles a tippet, to the lillian.

Step 1

For the level line knot, first, extend 4-6 inches of the lillian from the rod and tie an overhand stopper knot at the end. Take your line and tie an overhand knot around the main line or level line – known as a slip loop knot.

Step 2

Take the lillian and wrap it twice around the slip loop, ensuring the stopper has passed through the loop as well.

Step 3

Pull the mainline to secure the slip loop to the lillian. Now trim the tag but leave it long, around two inches, and voila! You’ve tied the level line knot. Just add a smaller diameter tippet and fly, start casting at fish, and enjoy life on the water.

Here is a video showing you the Tenkara level line knot.

Tip

The long tag is used to loosen the level line knot after you’ve fished, so if you don’t leave it long, it will be hard to untie. You might even have to end up cutting your new fly line if you forget to do this, which as we know is not ideal, so remember to leave the tag long.

Keen to learn another knot you can use for fly fishing? Check out our guide on tying an improved Palomar knot.

FAQ

How do you tie a leader to a Tenkara line?

To tie a leader to a Tenkara line, you’ll need a surgeon’s knot. Start by laying the line and leader side by side. Then tie an overhand loop in the leader and pass the line through the loop twice. Pull the leader and line tight to form a secure knot.

Is a Tenkara knot strong?

Absolutely! The Tenkara knot is designed to hold your line and leader together securely. It’s also relatively easy to tie, even for beginners.

Do Tenkara flies float or sink?

Tenkara flies typically float, although some patterns can be designed to sink. Floating flies are ideal for fishing on or near the surface, while sinking flies are perfect for fishing deeper in the water.

Do you need a tippet for Tenkara?

A tippet isn’t mandatory for Tenkara fishing, but it can be beneficial. A tippet adds extra length and strength to your line and can also help to create a better presentation of your fly.

Can you catch big fish with Tenkara?

Definitely! Despite their lightweight design, Tenkara rods are capable of casting far and have enough strength to handle larger fish.

What kind of line do you use for tenkara?

What kind of line do you use for Tenkara?

You have two options when fishing with Tenkara: a short, normal fly line or a level line. The latter is a relatively new concept where you attach your tippet directly to the lillian.

Is Tenkara good for beginners?

Yes, Tenkara fly fishing is great for new anglers. It’s super easy as there’s no reel, which simplifies the casting process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the Tenkara knot can significantly enhance your fly fishing experience. Practice these knots, and you’ll be ready to hit the water and start fishing in no time. Want to learn more? Download our series of fly fishing books below for more expert tips and techniques.

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