Tenkara Fly Shop

While searching the interwebs for a quality Tenkara kebari (flies) source I came across Jim Wright’s Tenkara Fly Shop. Jim Wright is a craftsman who has been tying trout flies for over 50 years. He’s a bit of an old school throwback who takes pride in his craft producing beautiful Tenkara Kebari (flies) that are built to last. One of the things I love about this sport is the people like Jim, the masters of their craft who still believe in hard work and value the traditions.

His website warns you that there is a “wait time” for his quality, hand tied flies but I have to say they are well worth the wait. If you’re looking for high-quality craftsmanship then give Jim’s kebari a try. Jim states that he uses a Leisenring style which involves using waxed silk with dubbing to create a bulkier body. I ordered 4 different flies, three variations of the Dr. Ishigaki style and a western killer bug pink.

All four flies are beautifully crafted and will surely increase your chances on the stream. Jim’s own interpretation of the Dr. Ishigaki style is well worth the wait and competitively priced. My personal favorite is the Red Full Dr. Ishigaki style. Thanks to the Tenkara Fly Shop, I will no longer experience the frustrations of cheap flies that don’t last or produce.

“Craftsmanship means dwelling on a task for a long time and going deeply into it, because you want to get it right.” Matthew B. Crawford, Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry Into the Value of Work