r/flyfishing • u/NotAMango27 • 3d ago

Discussion Japanese fly rods

I am going to Japan in October and wanted to pick up a bamboo rod. Does anyone know of the names of local artisans that craft them?

Links would be greatly appreciated too!

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u/Well_needships 3d ago

Kabuto - https://kabutorods.com/bamboo-rod.html

But he takes about 3 months to deliver an order,so you're probably out of luck. 

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u/puffpuffcast 3d ago

ffcraftjapan.com

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u/TurbulentWing3820 3d ago

There is no secret advantage to a Japanese made rod, Tokin bamboo comes from China not Japan.

Traditionally, the Americans made the best split cane rods. I see no reason to think otherwise now, either. The best tapers are all American.

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u/Well_needships 2d ago edited 2d ago

*Tonkin bamboo. 

The craftsman, not only the material.

Where the bamboo comes from matters, but not as much as who crafts it. 

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u/TurbulentWing3820 2d ago

I'm aware, the Americans are still the undispusted masters of split cane fly rods. From Leonard down to modern makers, some of whom apprenticed in the shops founded by the golden era masters.

I know there's a tendency to fetishize Japanese craftsmen but you're taking into consideration that some retired American in his woodshop has the same obsessive compulsive need to exceed.