I got my Daiwa fluorocarbon Plasma Line from Japan today. While I’m completely happy with my Tenkara Bum and Tenkara USA level lines, I Just wanted to try something a little different.
The diameter is 0.310 mm (0.012″) and is marked as a #3.5 line. This is a just little thinner than the Tenkara USA #3.5 level line, yet right in between the #3 and #4 Tenkara Bum lines. It might prove to be an interesting compromise of delicacy and castability in wind.
The color is pink and at first glance, doesn’t seem like it will be as visible as the Tenkara Bum Orange line.
I haven’t fished this line yet, but the first thing I did tonight was to make this 13 ft. line. I specifically tied a perfection loop at the end rather than a tippet ring so I have the flexibility to cut it down without having to worry about losing the ring on my upcoming backpacking trip.
I’m heading on a week long trip to Mt. Whitney Sunday and there’s a small lake on the way to the summit that made a fool of me last time I was there for not having a rod with me. There were dozens of trout cruising the surface with impunity just a few feet from shore and I was powerless. Not this time. I’m going fully armed with a Tenkara USA 12′ Iwana, a fully stocked fly box, and this line. Details to follow…
Jason,
I’m curious as to why you prefer the braid loop for attaching to the lillian instead of just a slip knot in the level line.
I recall your other article on adding this loop, but must have missed why you like this better. At this time, I’ve always found a simple slip knot is simpler and easier for me, but I know you are experienced and knowledgeable, so just wondering if this is a personal preference thing or whether I missing something more here.
best regards, and good luck for the upcoming trip.
craig
Hi Craig,
I just think it’s easier to connect. To me, the knot is more complicated. Everyone had their own preference and that’s fine. I’ve just always liked the way the traditional furled lines connected and wanted to see if there was a way to use the same connection on level lines.
I like this line. I too, shared your concerns regarding its visibility, but it’s pretty good once you get it outdoors, though I have no idea how it stacks up to TenkaraBum’s hi-vis line.
The spool is also pretty neat as well. It does a good job of keeping everything tidy.
Cliff,
I tried it this week and while it casts well, it is nowhere near as visible as Tenkara Bum lines. Just thought I’d let you know.
I suspected as much.
Thanks – I guess I will have to get some to try for those days or evenings when my eyes are a bit tired.
sorry, I tried this line last season. no where near as visible as Chris’s orange line. The old pink FC line that Daniel sold (and Chris still has a little of) is much more visible. Just not enough dye in the FC for my older eyes. Having said this, I can’t see anything much in the shadow on streams these days unless it is Chris’s hivis orange.
fyi, Chris’s hivis orange is also a far better sighter than the opaque Simans bicolor that comp czech nympher’s swear by. Let’s hope they don’t catch on…..ooops.
Craig
Jason, I love your write ups on Tenkara fishing. However, line diameter of 0.310mm should be read as 0.012″. Otherwise, I’m not going to catch any fish 🙂
R Naorem
Oops! Thanks for catching that. I’ll fix it.