In the video titled “I Bought the Cheapest Tenkara Line on AliExpress (Tenkara Fly Fishing),” posted by Tenkara Addict, the viewer is taken on a fishing adventure in the mountains of Utah. The YouTuber uses a Zen Tenkara Suzume rod and tests out the cheapest level line they purchased from AliExpress. Despite the line’s lack of visibility, they manage to catch multiple brook trout and a Bonneville cutthroat trout in the creek. The video concludes with the YouTuber catching a total of 20 fish, prompting them to consider if the trade-off of a cheap line is worth it.

Overview of the Fishing Adventure

In this video review titled “I Bought the Cheapest Tenkara Line on AliExpress (Tenkara Fly Fishing),” I’ll be sharing my experience of using the cheapest level line I could find on AliExpress for a day of fishing in Utah. I’ll provide an overview of the location of the fishing trip, the gear I used, and the purpose of the trip.

Location of the Fishing Trip

I’m currently in the beautiful mountains of Utah, exploring a new creek that I’ve never fished before. Fishing in new locations is always an exciting adventure for me, and I can’t wait to see what this creek has in store for me.

Gear Used during the Trip

For this fishing trip, I decided to use my go-to rod, the Zen Tenkara Suzume. This rod is incredibly versatile and perfect for small creeks like the one I’m fishing in. Additionally, I purchased the cheapest level line I could find from AliExpress. It’s a 9-foot level line with a 100% fluorocarbon construction and an orange tint. To ensure success during the fishing session, I also equipped myself with various size 12 kebari flies and the Medium Measure Net with a rubberized net bag.

Purpose of the Trip

The purpose of this fishing trip is to test the performance and quality of the cheap Tenkara line from AliExpress. I want to see if this affordable line can hold up during a full day of fishing and if it can deliver the results I’m looking for. Additionally, I’m excited to explore and fish in a new creek, hoping to have a memorable and successful fishing experience.

The Tenkara Rod

In this section, I’ll discuss the features of the Zen Tenkara Suzume rod, the advantages it offers for small creek fishing, and its performance during the fishing session.

Features of the Zen Tenkara Suzume Rod

The Zen Tenkara Suzume rod is a reliable and versatile rod specifically designed for small creek fishing. It has a length of around nine feet, which makes it perfect for maneuvering in tight spaces and casting with precision. The rod’s lightweight construction and sensitive tip allow for accurate and delicate presentations, ensuring that the fish aren’t spooked.

Advantages of the Rod in Small Creek Fishing

The Zen Tenkara Suzume rod offers several advantages when it comes to fishing in small creeks. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through dense vegetation, allowing for better access to those hard-to-reach fishing spots. The rod’s sensitive tip also provides increased sensitivity, making it easier to detect subtle strikes from fish in the creek.

Performance of the Rod during the Fishing Session

Throughout the fishing session, the Zen Tenkara Suzume rod performed exceptionally well. Its lightweight and nimble design allowed me to cast accurately and effortlessly, reaching even the most secluded spots in the creek. The rod’s sensitivity helped me detect even the slightest taps from the fish, resulting in a successful day of fishing.

The Tenkara Line

In this section, I’ll provide details about the cheap line I purchased from AliExpress, discuss any concerns regarding its color and visibility, and evaluate its performance during casting and fishing.

Details of the Cheap Line from AliExpress

The cheap line I bought from AliExpress is a 9-foot level line with a #3 rating. It is made of 100% fluorocarbon material and features a transparent construction with an orange tint. The line comes on a spool containing 50 meters of line, making it a cost-effective option for anglers on a budget.

Color and Visibility Concerns

One of the main concerns with this cheap line is its lack of visibility compared to my preferred line. The transparency of the line, combined with its orange tint, makes it challenging to see in different lighting conditions. This can pose difficulties when trying to detect strikes from fish, as the line may go unnoticed.

Performance during Casting

Despite its limited visibility, the cheap line from AliExpress performed well during casting. It maintained good control and allowed for accurate presentations of the flies. The line’s flexibility and responsiveness contributed to smooth and effortless casting motions, enhancing my overall fishing experience.

Viability of the Line in Fishing

While the cheap line from AliExpress may not offer the best visibility, it is still a functional option for fishing. It is affordable and serves its purpose of allowing anglers to cast and present their flies effectively. However, the lack of visibility can make it challenging to detect strikes, requiring anglers to rely on other indicators or techniques to ensure a successful hookup.

Fishing Experience with the Line

In this section, I’ll share the number and type of fish I caught during the fishing session, provide my impressions about the new creek I explored, and discuss any challenges encountered while fishing.

Number and Type of Fish Caught

During my time in the creek, I had a successful fishing session, catching several fish. I managed to land multiple brook trout and even had the exciting experience of catching a Bonneville cutthroat trout as my very first fish. The creek proved to be a fruitful location, offering a diverse range of fish species to target.

Impressions about the New Creek

Exploring the new creek in the mountains of Utah was a memorable experience. The creek’s scenery was breathtaking, with its crystal-clear water, lush vegetation, and serene surroundings. It provided the perfect setting for a peaceful and enjoyable fishing adventure, allowing me to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.

Challenges Encountered While Fishing

One of the primary challenges I faced during the fishing session was the visibility of the cheap Tenkara line. Its lack of visibility made it difficult to detect strikes from fish, requiring me to rely on other sensory cues or instincts to determine when to set the hook. While this challenge didn’t significantly hinder my overall fishing experience, it did add an additional level of complexity to the process.

Reflections on the Line Visibility

In this section, I’ll discuss the issue of the line’s lack of visibility in more detail, explore its impact on detecting strikes, and provide strategies to manage the visibility challenge.

Issue of the Line’s Lack of Visibility

The primary concern with the cheap Tenkara line from AliExpress is its limited visibility. When fishing in creeks or rivers where visibility plays a crucial role in strike detection, a highly visible line is essential. Unfortunately, this line’s transparency and orange tint make it challenging to spot, potentially resulting in missed hooksets.

Impact on Detecting Strikes

The line’s lack of visibility poses a notable challenge when it comes to detecting strikes from fish. In situations where fish exhibit subtle taps or gentle bites, the line’s limited visibility can make it difficult to identify these signals. Anglers using this line must rely on other indicators, such as line movement or changes in tension, to determine if a fish has taken the bait.

Strategies to Manage the Visibility Challenge

To overcome the visibility challenge posed by the cheap Tenkara line, several strategies can be employed. One approach is to focus on other indicators of fish strikes, such as the movement or behavior of the line, rather than solely relying on visual cues. Additionally, anglers can enhance the visibility of the line by incorporating brightly colored strike indicators or attaching visual markers along the line. These techniques can help improve strike detection and increase the chances of successful hooksets.

Exploring the Utah Creek

In this section, I’ll discuss the beauty of the creek’s scenery, explore the different sections of the creek I explored, and analyze the impact of various locations on the catch.

Beauty of the Creek Scenery

The Utah creek I had the opportunity to fish in boasted stunning scenery that added to the overall experience. With its clear, babbling water, flanked by vibrant green vegetation and tall, majestic mountains, the creek provided a picturesque backdrop for a day of fishing. The tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings created a sense of serenity and connectedness with the environment.

Different Sections of the Creek Explored

Throughout the day, I ventured into various sections of the creek in search of different fishing spots and fish species. Each section had its own unique characteristics, including deeper pools, faster riffles, and pockets of calm water. Exploring these different areas allowed me to understand the nuances of the creek and adapt my fishing techniques accordingly.

Impact of Locations on the Catch

The different sections of the creek I explored had varying effects on the catch. Some areas, such as the deeper pools, seemed to harbor larger fish, while others, like the faster riffles, were populated by smaller, more agile fish. By moving between these sections and adapting my approach, I was able to target different species and optimize my chances of landing fish throughout the day.

The Fishing Results

In this section, I’ll provide an overview of the fish count and their types caught during the fishing session, express my surprise at catching a cutthroat trout as the first fish, and comment on the quality of the fishing location.

Count and Type of Fish Caught

During the fishing session, I had a successful day on the water, catching a total of 20 fish. The creek proved to be abundant in fish, with brook trout being the most common species caught. However, the highlight of the day was catching a Bonneville cutthroat trout as my very first fish, which added to the excitement and enjoyment of the fishing adventure.

Surprise at Catching a Cutthroat Trout First

Catching a cutthroat trout as the very first fish was a pleasant surprise. It set the tone for the rest of the fishing session and added an element of excitement and suspense. The presence of cutthroat trout in the creek showcased the diversity of fish species and the quality of the fishing location.

Comment on the Fishing Location Quality

The fishing location in the Utah creek exceeded my expectations in terms of its quality. The creek’s abundance of fish and the variety of fishing opportunities it provided made for a highly enjoyable experience. The healthy fish population and the beautiful surroundings contributed to a successful and memorable fishing adventure.

Reviewing the Fishing Gear

In this section, I’ll provide an assessment of the cheap AliExpress line, share my thoughts on the trade-off between cost and visibility, and offer potential recommendations for or against using the line.

Assessment of the Cheap AliExpress Line

The cheap Tenkara line I purchased from AliExpress proved to be a functional option for fishing. It performed adequately, allowing me to cast accurately and present my flies effectively. However, its main drawback is its limited visibility, which hampers strike detection. Despite this, the line serves its purpose and provides an affordable alternative for anglers on a tight budget.

Thoughts on the Trade-off of Cost and Visibility

When considering the trade-off between cost and visibility, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. The cheap AliExpress line offers affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious anglers. However, the compromise lies in its limited visibility, which can pose challenges in detecting strikes from fish. Anglers must decide whether the cost savings outweigh the potential difficulties associated with the line’s visibility.

Potential Recommendations for or Against the Line

Based on my experience, I would recommend the cheap AliExpress line for anglers on a tight budget who are willing to compromise on visibility. If visibility is a crucial factor in strike detection and overall fishing success, it may be worth investing in a more expensive line with superior visibility. However, for those looking for a cost-effective option that still performs adequately, the cheap Tenkara line from AliExpress is a viable choice.

Engaging with Viewers

In this section, I’ll request feedback and questions from viewers, invite them to subscribe to the channel, and promote visiting the Myflytyingyarn.com store.

Request for Feedback and Questions

I value the opinions and input of my viewers, and I encourage you to share your feedback and ask any questions you may have about the fishing adventure or the gear used. Your perspectives and inquiries contribute to fostering a sense of community and knowledge-sharing among fellow anglers.

Invitation to Subscribe to the Channel

If you enjoyed this video review and found the content valuable, I invite you to subscribe to the channel. Subscribing ensures that you won’t miss any future fishing adventures, gear reviews, and tips and tricks related to Tenkara fly fishing. Join our community of fishing enthusiasts and stay up to date with the latest content.

Promotion to Visit Myflytyingyarn.com Store

As part of supporting the channel’s growth and sustainability, I encourage you to visit the Myflytyingyarn.com store, where you can find a wide range of high-quality fly tying materials, tools, and accessories. By making a purchase through the store, you not only equip yourself with top-notch gear but also contribute to the production of future videos and content.

Mention of Another YouTube Channel – SUV RVing

Before concluding, I would like to mention another YouTube channel called SUV RVing. If you’re interested in non-fishing outdoor adventures, such as exploring national parks, camping, or overlanding, I highly recommend checking out their content. They provide valuable insights and inspiration for outdoor enthusiasts seeking new experiences and discoveries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my fishing adventure with the cheapest Tenkara line from AliExpress proved to be a worthwhile experience. Despite its limited visibility, the line performed adequately, allowing me to cast and present my flies effectively. Exploring the Utah creek was a memorable adventure, with its breathtaking scenery and abundant fish population. While the visibility challenge posed by the line was notable, strategies can be employed to manage this issue.

The Zen Tenkara Suzume rod exceeded expectations, offering versatility and performance in small creek fishing. Its compact design and sensitive tip made it a pleasure to use throughout the fishing session. The variety of fish caught, including the surprise catch of a Bonneville cutthroat trout as the first fish, highlighted the quality and potential of the fishing location.

Ultimately, the cheap Tenkara line from AliExpress provides an affordable option for anglers on a budget. While its visibility may present challenges, it remains functional and serves its purpose. Anglers must consider their priorities and decide if the cost savings outweigh the visibility trade-off. By engaging with viewers, requesting feedback and questions, and promoting further support to the channel, we can continue to foster a thriving and informative fishing community.