Nothing big to write about today–just a few glimpses of what’s going on at Tenkara Talk headquarters…
Tenkara USA Hemostats and Nippers
I recently got a chance to try out the Tenkara USA Hemostat and Line Nipper combo. At first glance, they don’t seem remarkable. They look just like any forceps and line nipper and perform their unglamorous (though necessary) functions dutifully. They both have a nice black matte finish that won’t reflect sunlight and scare off spooky fish. What is remarkable though is the price. The combo sells for about $12. My Dr. Slick hemostats alone were $15 and are of the same quality. My comparable nippers from Orvis were $10 so this combo is a steal in my opinion. Honestly, I don’t know how T-USA can sell this combo for 50% of what I paid for comparable tools separately and still make a profit. It’s good to know there are still some great deals out there.
Christmas Card from Tenkara Bum
I got a nice surprise in the mail today–a Christmas card from Chris Stewart, the Tenkara Bum himself! While I’m not big on snail mail, it’s nice to know there are still good people who recognize the value of hand writing a card, taking it to the post office, and actually putting effort into sending a card that involves more than the click of a mouse. Thanks Chris and happy holidays to you too! And, yes, this is going into the archives for the future Tenkara Museum!
Little Dark Kebari
Speaking of Tenkara Bum, I finally got a chance to tie with some of the little dark kebari yarn I got from Chris. I tied an interpretation of the little dark kebari that is a little different than the way Chris ties it–namely, it’s a reverse hackle with a more slender body (more like a typical sakasa kebari than the Hida Takayama style which resembles more of a western soft hackle). But I like the way the way it came out. The yarn and starling hackle compliment each other well and I will be fishing this fly as my “small, dark pattern” the next time the situation calls for it.
Which rod next?
I recently got a Tenkara USA Yamame and it has taken up residence in the #11 spot of my tenkara rod rack that holds 12 rods. Now that I own the complete Tenkara USA lineup, the only question is which rod will occupy the #12 spot? Either Daniel is going to have to design a new rod or I’m going to have to fly to Japan. This could get expensive!
Maybe a 10ft handle on the rack?
The nipper and forceps are standard run of the mill stuff. Aimed at keeping them very lightweight and nothing fancy.
A lot of what we do is to add value to our customers by offering some basic things at very reasonable prices. Consider quite a few as giveaways, like our booklets, etc.
That’s great Daniel. Keep it up!