1. Fish species which can be caught with a bobber
2. Technique of fishing with bobber or float
3. What can You expect and how much it would cost
4. Example of one-day fishing trip schedule
5. Required tackle

Dear anglers,
when talking about fishing with bobber or float I mean the most simple fishing style for catching many–many fish species, which can be something new for those, who fish with lure or confess only fly fishing, or will become a great fishing school for children. With bobber You can fish all over the year in any type of water: river, lake, ocean…, You can get on the hook almost all fish species from the two-inches roach to the seven-feet catfish depending on the bait which do You use. This is also my favorite fishing style, because I have started 35 years ago my fishing career from a tiny perch, caught with earthworm and bobber, continuing later as a fishing guide in Prague. Of course, there is a huge difference between amateur and professional fishing with bobber, but I will help you to overcome this difference thanks to my experience in a really short time. So, have a look first which fish in Czech republic or Prague can take Your bait!

Fish species which can be caught with a bobber.

Barbel	Bleak	Bream	Crucian carp
Carp	Gudgeon	Ide	Roach
Rudd	Silver bream	Tench	Vimba

Technique of fishing with bobber or float.

Properly speaking, the bobber is just a floating bite alarm. You can use either antiquity cheap bamboo rod or expensive modern 30-feet rod for a thousand euro – it does not change the result. The main goal is properly speaking presentation of a bait in the right place and right time. With our help You can become a real “bobber-angler” in no time!

What can You expect and how much it would cost.

Half-day – 150 euro / angler

Full-day for one angler – 200 euro

Full-day for two anglers – 300 euro

Example of one-day fishing trip schedule.

• 6:00 – meeting at the hotel, transfer to fishing spot (up to 30 min)
• 7:00 – permit purchase (if needed)
• 7:30 – 16:30 – fishing with lesson (lunch box included)
• 17:00 – transfer back to Prague

The trip for one angler would cost 200 euro (incl. transportation, tackle hire, permit, guide service and lunch box). For two anglers this trip would cost 300 euro with the same conditions.

Required tackle.

There are any tackle at Your disposal in our Prague fishing club, however if You’d like to bring Your own equipment, I would recommend You following:

• Tackle: 20-25 feet strong pole (there are many carps in czech waters), 4 – 8 pounds line, different bobbers, hooks, leads and swivels. The landing net should be with long handgrip, up to 10 feet.
• Clothing and accessories: Sturdy shoes, waterproof jacket and pants (can be an overall), two or three pairs of warm socks, thermal underwear, polarized glasses, cap.
• Baits: though live baits can be purchased in fishing shop, don’t hesitate to try some good imitations of maggots or bloodworm.

Water and place: trout lake in Prague surroundings

Date of fishing: 11.02.2019

Weather and water conditions: cold morning with temperature -5 degrees C, partially cloudy, after 10 a.m.snowfall and pressure drop

Fishing method: active with marmyshka and silicone baits, passive with live baits

Tackle and baits: short ice fishing rods with spinning reel and fluorocarbon line 0,15 mm

Catch in total: a dozen of rainbow trouts and brook trouts, some of them – real monsters, a few others won freedom before photo session

The largest fish: stubborn 6 pounds rainbow trout

Special features of a fishing day: Morning greeted us with a light frost, unusual and unexpected after the previous 10-degree warming at the weekend, so we had to warm up by drinking hot herbal tee and slotting a few holes in quite thick ice. However, the morning bites from large rainbows were quite rough and showed us that the fishing day might be very good. A pair of nice trouts “looked” on the ice and one real monster has broken the line.

Around 10 a.m. has started a snowfall and fish suddenly stopped biting at all. So, rainbow trout is not a roach, which admire snowflakes…. Due to above mentioned reason we decided to make a pause for lunch and visited a traditional czech restaurant situated just nearby. In an hour or so we came back on the water reinforced by delicious czech cusine. And finally we had a pleasure to meet a few more amazing colorful trouts including one almost two feet long real monster female full of caviar, which was proudly presented with shaking hands in front of camera lenses

Photo report:

More about ice fishing in Czechia You can read here Ice fishing near Prague

Water and place: river Berounka in Prague surroundings

Date of fishing: 20.07.2018

Weather and water conditions: air temperature +30 C, water temperature +22 C, very sunny day with a few clouds, stable high pressure

Fishing method: fly fishing with french nymphs

Tackle and baits: 3,3 m (11 ft) 3# Greys Streamflex rod was a great choice with french nymph set, 2,7 m (9 ft) 4# Cormoran rod with czech nymph set

Catch in total: approx.30 bites, 15 fish landed. Among them 4 outstanding barbels and a few vimbas.

The biggest fish: barbel (Barbus barbus) 70 cm (28 inches)

Special features of a fishing day:The morning and afternoon session with Hector on river Berounka was unexpectedly outrageous. Though the water was clear, the flow little and there were many people on the banks and in the the river due to hot weather the fish took flies quite well, especially vimbas and even the queen of streams – barbel. I found that french nymph works well especially in such a hot days because of its sensitivity and thin tippet targeted on spooky fish.

Initially our main goal was catching a chub, but we didn’t find any of those large-mouth glutton in the morning. And of course after getting the first bite from the barbel we’ve payed attention just to this amazing fish. Though the barbel’s take is usually quite soft the fight this stubborn fish gives very strong bending the rod to its maximum possible curve. Four fish pricked, three landed, all carefully released back. Come to Czechia too and try fly fishing for non-trout species. I believe it will become for You an unforgettable adventure!

Photo report:

More detailed information about fly fishing in Czech republic You can get on the page Fly fishing Czech republic

Hello, Olivier!
Thank You very much for accepting my invitation and interview for my fishing blog www.fishinginprague.com

Hello, Olivier!

I am very exciting to take an interview from You. The first, most comprehensive book I’ve read about my favorite pikeperch was written by You on the end on 20th century and till now it’s still the most desired source of knowledges about this attractive fish. I am talking about „Heimliche Räuber.: Alles über das Zanderangeln.“, which was published on czech market in year 2005. Is the pikeperch still Your favorite fish till now? And why if so?

I love to fish for predators in general, but the zander definitely is among my favourite fish. The reason is quite simple: there are fish that you will never catch if they are not active – for example catfish and taimen. If they don’t want to attack, even the best angler of the world will not catch them. The charming aspect of zanderangling is the fact that it is possible to entice “sleeping” zander to become active, it is even possible to change an inactive group of zander into feeding frenzy …

Look: Spinning and lure fishing guide

As I can see in all Your publications You pay a great attention to photos, which are really outstanding! Which camera do You prefer for taking pictures near the water? Do You have a personal photographer?

I usually make the photos on my own, this is why I only have few photos of myself. To work on the water with one or two remote controlled flashlights, I need at least one or two assistants … In analog times I was a Nikon photographer, but Nikon was not really up to date when the digital times arrived. Today, I am a Canon photographer.

As I have realised You travel a lot fishing fishing rod. Photos with beluga from Raduta or taimen from Monglia (world record in year 2010) are absolutely gorgeous! Do You have a favorite destination? And if we talk about world records, do You have another?

I spend 6 – 8 months every year on fishing trips. There is not one place that I would qualify as my favourite one. Paradise does not exist on our planet. Wherever you go, there is always a rainseason or some nasty wintertime. I love to go to the Amazon, but only when the water levels are the lowest ones of the year – usually a small time window of 2 – 4 weeks a year! I love to go to Mongolia, but not in summertime as most rainfalls take place in July and August – rivers are then high and coloured. September/October is the right season for Mongolia. I could continue like that with many different countries …

Look: Interveiw with Konstantin Kuzmin (Russia)

Almost all famous anglers collaborate with some fishing tackle brands. Which one have You chosen? And, btw, as we are talking about tackle, what are Your recommendation for large fish in general?

My photos are exempt from publicity – no logos on shirts or caps. I have no contract with any tackle company. I am still and old school journalist: a journalist that sells is no journalist!

For large fish I recommend rather heavy tackle. Catching big fish on light tackle is a stupidity. The fight lasts too long for the fishing, which is bad for its survival chances. With heavy tackle it is much more fun to play a big fish – if you are mean with the fish, the fish will be mean with you! This is fun!

Let’s get back to the pikeperch! In Czechia, where I live, the most favorite fish for 90% of anglers is without doubts carp. However it’s quite unusual in comparison with another part of the Europe, especially eastern Europe. Have You ever fish in pikeperch in Czechia on Labe river or our deep reservoirs as Orlik or Slapy?

No, I never fished for zander in Czech Republic. The only waters I fished there were the lakes of Jakub Vagner and the lake of the presidential hunt in Lany.

Step by step we came to the most important part of equipment – the lure! It’s so hard to choose the good one, especially for such a moody fish as pikeperch is! Do You have some all–year–around lures?

The question about the right lures for zanderangling is rather uncomplicated. You might know the softplasticlure “Sandra” from the French fabric Delalande. I made that lure with my friend Michel Naudeau already in 1993 – and it is still being sold in good fishing tackle shops – after 25 years of existence! A good softplasticlure for zanderangling should be between 9 and 14 cm long. You can go for non-action lures, but in general I prefer lures with some action. Last year we landed our 70.000th zander on my boat, I had over ten years with more than 5000 zander yearly on the Ebro in Spain. After all these fish I can still not tell you what colour is the best! I come to the conclusion that the colour of the lure has absolutely no influence when angling for zander. This might surprise many anglers, but this my conclusion after 30 years of intense zanderangling …

Is there any special and quick way of research a new water?

Spinfishing is the right approach of new zanderwaters. On some open waters trolling can be an approach to make yourself an idea quite quickly, but that does not work in all kinds of waters …

Btw, when we’re talking about Orlik and Slapy, those artificial lakes are incredibly deep, up to 70 meters! And in many part those banks are steeply breaking off to the depth of 30 meters. How to fish for pikeperch successfully in such a deep waters? I mean if we don’t have a boat at disposal.

Boatfishing is usually the best approach when zanderangling, as you can fish from the shallow to the deep. On the bank you fish from the deep towards the shallow, which augments the risk of getting snagged. The best approach for zanderangling in deep water is to fish vertically from a boat. That allows also to do some vertical fishing for pelagic zander. Bankfishing for zander in deep waters is something I do not enjoy …

Dear Olivier, could You tell me a story about cayman fishing? As I found some of Your photos from the river Xingu I am totally shocked! Fishing for those beasts should be very risky, because the cayman couldn’t be compared with a pike and even with an alligator fish!

Once you have caught most big freshwater fresh you start to think about what else there can be to catch. And – logically – you end up with crocs & caymans! I caught them on many places in Africa and Southamerica, animals up 450 cm. It is great sensation to have an animal at the end of the line that can kill you within seconds – not many anglers know that feeling. In addition, there is always a good reason when I’ve been catching crocs. On the Nile I caught them because the soldiers that I had to take for my protection liked to shoot the crocs coming near our boats. I gave them some money not to kill them, caught the crocs with rod, line & surface lures, made some photos and released the crocs, convinced that they will be more shy in the future. Most of the crocs & caymans I caught in Southamerica was on the Rio Xingu, where the third biggest hydro-electric plant of our planet has been built. 80 km of the old riverbed felt dry, this is where I caught a maximum of crocs & caymans in order to release them in areas, where they will have water in the future …

Meanwhile, I’ve caught over 100 crocs & caymans … On one photo you see my 9 year old son Maximus playing a small croc …

Could You please say, what do You plan for the future fishing adventures and what is Your dream? And what would be Your message for young generation on anglers?

I had the chance to spend great time fishing in many countries. In total I fished in 43 countries. Throughout the years I’ve spent about 5 years on the Ebro, 14 months on the Nile in quest of huge nileperch, over a year in Mongolia in quest of taimen, pike and perch, over a year in the Amazon, in Romania and in Patagonia. But today, things have changed. The magic times on the Ebro are well over, I lived all the decline of nileperch angling on Lake Nasser, even in the Amazon angling is becoming more and more difficult. Who knows how long I’ll keep going to Mongolia – big scale mining is a big threat for the Mongolian rivers … Nowadays the fishing is not improving anywhere, the magic times are somewhat over … I’m part of a generation that could live magic moments in so many places of the world, but this is much more difficult for the coming generations: pollution, overfishing and global warming are the major threats … That is sad, I know …

Thank You very much for the interview, Olivier! I appreciate You shared such a significant moments of Your fishing life with me! Keep enjoying traveling and fishing, looking forward to impressions of Your following adventures!

Look: Beginner’s Fishing BIBLE, INTERVIEWS with Pro Anglers & Tackle REVIEWS

Fly fishing shop FishingPointPrague

Quite new fly fishing shop, established by famous czech flyfisherman Jan Slaninka, situated in Prague 2, Vinohrady, in almost central part of Prague.

Here you can find everything for fly fishing from main fly fishing tackle companies as Simms, Vision, Cortland etc. as well as fly tying suppliers as for example Veniard. Here you can order also very special flies suitable for your river or lake only. The owner is always ready to give you advice about fly fishing technique or tackle choice.

Unfortunately you can not get a license directly in this shop due to some bureaucracy in Czech republic, however the FishingPointPrague tackle store is connected with Czech Fishing Union, so if you’re going to live for a long time in Prague, you can pass an exam for fishing permission here too.

• Address: Slezská 34, 120 00 Praha 2
• Phone: +420 607 111 000
• Open hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00h – 12:00h and 13:00h – 18:00h. Saturday and Sunday by agreement
• Web site: http://www.fishingpointprague.cz/
• Categories: fly fishing

Tackle shop Black Bass

According to my suggestion this shop has a huge advantage for those, who is at work during whole week and can’t visit any shop during usual open hours from 9 am till 6 pm. Here you can purchase almost anything, however it’s strong suit is large offer of Megabass, Jackall and Illex lures. The shops is run by Jiri Ourednicek, famous czech anglers and simply a great fellow

• Address: Slezská 1324/44, Praha 2 – Vinohrady, 120 00
• Phone: +420 606 884 799
• Email: info@blackbass.cz
• Open hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:00h – 19:00h
• Web site: www.blackbass.cz
• Categories: carp fishing, bait fishing, light game fishing

Fly Fishing shop Muskareni Zeman

This shop belongs to eldest fly fishing shops not in Prague only, but in whole Czech republic. And if you’d like to purchase great czech nymphs and another high-quaity goods, you have to visit this tackle store. Traditionally as most of fishing shops this one offers too goods from world-known companies as Simms, Vision, Greys etc. Unfortunately the seller doesn’t speak english, however all equipment is presented in such a good way, that you will find without doubts whatever you need.

• Address: Radhošťská 2004/5, 130 00 Praha 3
• Phone: +420 222 715 855
• Open hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00h – 12:00h and 13:00h – 18:00h. Saturday and Sunday closed
• Web site: http://www.flyfishingprague.cz
• Categories: fly fishing

JV fishing store

This fishing shop is not a new one, however two years ago the owner has changed to Jakub Vagner, which is without doubts a well-known public figure. The JV fishing store is focused on sales of fishing equipment and trade representation of leading world brands, mainly for freshwater fishing and strives to become a leading player in the domestic market. One part of this tackle store is targeted on traditional carp fishing with a huge number of boilies and baits from such a companies as Tactic Carp, Tesinsky etc. The second part is under the logos of Westin, Faith and Mustad and is targeted on lure fishing, which became quite popular in Czech republic during last years. The main strategic and exclusive business partner of this shop is Alza.cz, one of a leading e–shops for Czechia. This shop is definitely worth to visit and quite easy accessible from the metro station Kobylisy by walk.

• Address: Trousilova 1065, 182 00 PRAHA 8
• Phone: +420 284 685 753
• Email: kobylisy@jvrybarstvi.cz
• Open hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00h – 18:00h. Saturday 8:30 – 12:00, Sunday closed
• Web site: www.jvrp.cz
• Categories: carp fishing, bait fishing, light game fishing

Hello, Frank!
Thank You very much for accepting my invitation and interview for my fishing blog www.fishinginprague.com

You are a real legend of carp fishing! Many years ago, when I made my first cast with carp rig I’ve learned “how–to” from a carp fishing book “To catch a carp” written by Tim Paisley, where he mention Your name many times. Also whenever I speak with my carp fishing friends from Russia or Czechia, everyone knows You. So, it’s just a couple of years when You’ve started with catching some freshwater monsters, isn’t it? Why have You chosen carp fishing?

I have been carp fishing for 48 years continually so its hardly recent, i caught fish that were as big as possible in those waters. What more can you do?

To me carp fishing is about so much more than just about the size of the fish you catch. It’s about the journey and more, about the way I do it that makes me happy.

Carp are different from another fish. They come in all shapes and sizes and eat such a variation of food items! There is far more to interest me with carp, because they are incredible creatures.

Last time on ECFCH2017 You’ve introduced to my juniour crew an outstanding casting technique. Which tackle (rod, reel, line) could You recommend for making very long casts and what is the maximim distance You’ve ever cast?

Well, I work for Sonik Sports and naturally I like their equipment. I happen to love the Gravity X rods and I really like the Dominator X reels; they are the best reels i have ever seen for the money, I like Gardner HD line – the new one its very good indeed. As far as my casting achievements, the longest cast I have made with a carp rod was 208 (!) meters, but this was with sensible line,– not silly thin nylon that makes you look good.

To tell You the truth I use just a few carp rigs as a blowback rig or helicopter rig. Which ones belong to Your favorite and why?

I use a longshank blow back rig a lot. With a shrink tube line aligner it turns quickly in the mouth looking for a grip. I also often use it with two of my inventions: the Anchor rig and the Shot on the hook rig, put these three together and its very effective at anti eject, of course I often use my other invention the Chod rig, which I have been using this since year 1996. Simply I like a rig that is easy to use and is hard for carp to mess with.

Look: Carp fishing pro guide in Czechia

At present time there are thousands of new baits and boilies on carp fishing market. Do You have some favorites or just use Your own?

I work with a British company called Spotted Fin as far as I am concerned the bait they do is as good as it gets. Also I have my own special hook bait range – a Frank Warwick signature range with them. I am an advisor to this company and consultant. They have two monumental food baits called The Catalyst and a new Fishmeal type bait based on my recipe called Smokey Jack, which is brilliant and I’ve caught some very good fish on it recently.

As far as boilie characteristics as taste, size, color etc., will You recommend something special for young anglers which don’t have enough budget to spend lots of money for carp food?

I would use the method feeder with either maize plastic corn or a wafter barrel boilie as hook bait.
Let other anglers who can afford it feed the carp if you dont have much money the method feeder is an inexpensive way of catching plenty of fish and its often overlooked by boilie only anglers.

Your personal bests are 64.6 lb mirror and 59.10 lb common carps. Is it correct or perhaps You’ve just overestimated this enourmous size too? Which kind of carp belongs to Your favorite?

No, my personal best mirror is 67.11 and my PB common is 70.2. You have read old news i think with these figures. I prefer mirror carp.

People all over the world always dream how to join together hobby and work. You were successful in fulfilling this dream. As an angling consultant do You earn enough for living or have any additional job(s)?

I have been an angling consultant living purely from fishing related work since 1997. I dont earn as much as i did in perhaps 2002 to 2010 but that was a really busy time in my life, where I was with many companies and it added up to a very lot of money each year, I got a bit fed up of being told what to do constantly by business heads not anglers, it was all about money. So I chose to only work with nice friendly companies that are good people, happiness means more than money alone, yes I pay my bills and still make a nice living from fishing, for a while recently (two years ago) I went welding in Norway. The money there is amazing and it was nice to have a change of scenery for a change, but i couldn’t do it permanently – its not like fishing.

Look: How to catch a big fish

Besides carp fishing and work You have some hobbies, don’t You? I’ve heard You do boxing or treasure hunting. Perhaps something else?

I used to race motorcycles to a very high level, which I did for 4 years British Superbikes. I raced in many different classes the 250, 500 and 1000cc. A serious accident ended my career in that. I also enjoyed boxing and kick boxing, as well as judo from being a kid, I also like treasure hunting with a metal detector and have just made some amazing finds.

You know, it’s always important being supported from a family, especially wife My wife for example loves fishing very much, however now we have a little baby and she can’t go out with me as she did before. Does Your family share carp fishing passion with You?

My three children all love fishing and my two sons in particular have become very good anglers indeed. They accompany me all over Europe and its one of lifes great pleasures seeing them enjoy their captures. And the memories are special, they have always been very supportive, especially my wife who has never complained at my often long missing periods when I was away fishing all over the world. She is great!

You have visited probably just a few times Czechia. What do You think about carp population I czech waters? This fish belongs without doubts to the national treasure in this country.

I only came to Czech with the England juniors at the World Junior Event, so i actually didn’t get to fish myself sadly, from what I see you have lots of very nice waters with and a very good head of carp in there. So maybe one time I will get to fish for myself.

And the last question: What will You wish to our young generation of anglers, not only in Europe, but all over the world?

I see angling as a fading light to some degree. I think we have seen the peak before the decline, I say this sadly because the younger generations seem to want to sit in front of computer screens or X boxes living in a virtual reality rather than experience things like we did as kids, I see none of the young ones read books any more rarely magazines either, if its not on Youtube forget it – they dont want to know.

I see all of these people springing up making films for Youtube, getting big followings yet. Many have never wrote an article or caught much never mind invented something yet they are popular, its the way things change I guess, its no longer “oh he is a good writer” its “oh he does good filmed blogs” im not sure I feel great about that.

Thank You very much for interview, Frank! Tight lines!

Look: Fishing reports from Czechia

Hello, Milijana!
Thank You for accepting an interview for my fishing blog www.fishinginprague.com Could You please say a few words about yourself and company?

M.M.: We are from Serbia. My father Dragoslav is into fly fishing for 35 years and fly tying for 25 years. At the beginning it was just a hobby for him, but after 5 years he decided to make some money from tying flies. So, the Gaga Flies company was established in year 2011. As for me I am engaged in flyfishing and flytying for 3 years, helping with this work to my father with my sense for creativity. After 500,000 flies Gaga Flies company had made, we still work hard, devoted to making new creative patterns, helping people to learn more about fly tying and raise both fly fishing and fly tying on higher levels.

You do a great job, because new fly patterns are always considering to be “the best”, especially those with unusual materials as for example Your transparent gammarus imitations. What do You base Your unique fly tying style on?

M.M.: First thing we keep in mind when trying new fly patterns is their look, which has to be very similar to a real insect. Unique style is usually developed with respect to correct proportions and colors as far as tying materials, which should act well in the water. Also we pay a high attention on such an important thing as transparency: for the best effect of the silhouette in water column or on the surface.

Look: Fishing in Czechia – fly fishing & fly tying

Tell me please a story of Your company’s name. Why Gaga flies?

M.M.: In most cases the nickname for serbian name Dragoslav is Gaga, so that’s why the name of the company is Gaga Flies. But it also sounds like crazy flies – crazy good flies!

Some fly patterns are not easy to tie. I remember when I’ve started fly tying it took for me almost one hour for one dry caddis imitation. You’ve mentioned a huge number of flies You’ve made – 500.000 pc! Could You tell me how is Your fly tying business set?

M.M.: Yes, as You say, the total number of flies we made is above 500.000 pieces, and I can say without doubts, that during the last 25 years my father made by his own hands over 200.000 flies! However we get also the some help from professional fly tyers who cooperate with our company – so that is the way how our business is set. Our clients are from all over the world! America, Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden), New Zealand, Spain, Italy! They usually order mix of flies – nymphs, gammarus, buzzers and dry flies. But recently the gammarus immitation became the most popular pattern.

As for fishing: all flies should be definitely “approved” by anglers and fish on the water. Do You fish with Your father too or just provide new fly patterns for some pro-anglers and guides?

M.M.: I’m in flyfishing a little more over one year and in flytying for 3 years. But I really enjoy both in the same way, because the passion for fly fishing and fly tying can’t be divided into different categories!

Look: Fishing reports from Czechia

What could You recommend for fly tying beginners (vise, materials, patterns), which just make their first steps in fly tying?

M.M.: Our recommendation is to use from the beginning materials from well-known fly tying suppliers and brands only. In this case You will be protected from wasting money with poor quality materials! For instance try fly tying with world famous patterns like Adams fly, Royal Wolf, Stimulators, Prince nymph, Hare’s ear, Copper John, Pheasant Tail etc. – in that way you can get a sense for proportions and color, and besides those patterns are really easy to tie and available in every catalogue. The vise should be rotated. Also follow the very important rule: Less is more (don’t exaggerate the quantity of materials used!). You dont need a bunch of materials for something in order to make it look good. Just right materials in right proportions!

Thank You for interview, Milijana!

Looking forward to try some of Your flies on czech waters!

Have a look: First tenkara fly fishing

However tenkara was introduced to me not by Japanese anglers, but by clients from bulgarian capital city Sofia, which had arrived for trout fishing on one of the small rivers lost somewhere in North Bohemia among Krkonose mountains. I taught them as a specialist in «czech nymphing» about a half-day how to catch from under the feet stubborn graylings and brown trouts, but after lunch Mitko, as one of them was named, took out of the backpack a pole, which looked rather like a child toy, fastened to the tip a brightly colored monofilament leader with one single fly on the thin tippet. And afterwards he began to pull out of the water nice little trouts one by one! Well, I’ve tried to do that in the same way…. and, as my friends later emphasized, tenkara can easily “hook” You as a drug. Real simplicity and elegance when Your hand moves as in japanese caligraphy! You can land Your first fish just in after a few minutes of training!

What is this wonderful fishing style TENKARA about?

Let’s start from a history

Once in medieval Japan during the Edo period, lasting from year 1608 to year 1863, the Tokugawa shogun established peace in the country and the clans stopped fighting each other. Then samurais, who were faithful vassals of the emperor, got an order to practicise fishing on fast mountain streams for training their agility and quick reaction, in addition to fencing with the japanese sword – catana. First tenkara fishing was an occupation for the privileged estates of the population, so the tackle was very expensive. Even flies were sometimes braided with a golden thread and, together with hand-made bamboo rods and a line of woven horse hair or silk, represented whole works of art. But one by one fishing was allowed for everyone and tenkara, along with the sea fishing, became also a source of income for the poor.

Being a mountainous country, Japan boasts a multitude of creeks and streams, inhabited by three species, which became the main targets for tenkara anglers. First, it’s IWANA (Salvelinus leucomaenis), which means “fish of stones”, the whitespotted char living in very cold mountain streams. Then it’s AMAGO (Oncorhynchus masou macrostomus) or “rain fish”, which really bites better in rainy weather, when the water becomes muddy. And, the last one is YAMAME (Oncorhynchus masou), not without reason carrying the name “woman of the mountains” for its beauty. All these fish already in the 18th century became a welcome dish on the table of nobles, and now they are served in the most exquisite restaurants.

The very name “tenkara” has appeared a little bit later and means “from heaven”, which is not surprising if you look at the fisherman’s movements from the side.

By the way, very similar to tenkara is also the traditional traditional japanese “ayu fishing”, called after the fish with the same name. For this type of fishing anglers use very strong and flexible poles up to 30 meters long both with an artificial fly and with the imitation of the ayu fish itself, which works well especially during spawning, when this fish protects its nest.

Have a look: Fly fishing guide in Czechia

The most common fish species that can be caught with tenkara in Europe except trout, char and grayling are although chub, perch, roach, bleak and even a crucian carp!

What kind a tackle and equipment is used for tenkara fishing?

The tenkara tackle is very simple and inexpensive and really distinguish in this way from fly fishing, which is not in vain considered as an elite fishing method. Just compare by Yourself: the average quality fly fishing set including rod, reel, fly line, two or three leaders, some tippets, fly box, vest and waders will cost at least 600 – 700 euros, while for tenkara you only need a rod with a price of up to 150 euros, tapered leader, tippet material and flies. Since fishing usually take a place in shallow creeks and small rivers, there is no necessity to bring waders, simple wading boots till waist will be probably enough. Furthemore all accessories fit into one pocket of a jacket!

The modern tenkara poles are in 90% of cases telescopic and have their own classification, which depends usually on their action. Their length varies from 11 to 14 feet, and the notations 8:2, 7:3, 6:4 and 5:5 show the ratio of hard and soft parts. Traditionally for tenkara existed a tapered leader made from horsehair, which was in modern times replaced either by a tapered line, or just by a heavy monofilament line in bright color with the length of 10-11 feet. It is possible to use as a leader just a common fishing line with a diameter of 0,4 or 0,5 mm, however usually those lines are not enough soft. The tippet is connected to the leader by simple knot.

Have a look: Tenkara near Carlsbad

The flies for tenkara is also usually very simple and easy–to–tie. Once in Japan there was only one fly for tenkara – KEBARI, which was made from pheasant’s or rooster’s feathers, but now the number of flies goes beyond one little fly box – same as in fly fishing. However if You’d like to be successfull on fishing the dozen of traditional kebari together with a few bead head nymphs and dry flies would be enough. Along with kebari and nymphs the one of my favorite flies is «killer bug» invented by Frank Sawyer, which can be really a «killer» of graylings. The secret in this case is a beige colored wool with a pinch of pink color, which costs on the Internet sometimes more than $ 100 for a tangle, because it’s almost impossible to find this proper color in common stores with wool.

——— The end of the First part! ———

In the next part 2/2 You will find the following:

• Casting technique and work with fly
• The main difference between tenkara and fly fishing

Hello, Jan!
Thank You for finding the time to share Your experience on my fishing blog www.fishinginprague.com

For instance I have for You perhaps very traditional question: when and how You got involved into fly fishing and why have You chosen this fishing style?

J.S.: I started fishing in the beginning of 90s, but at first it was not fly fishing, but spinning, which always attracted me. Before that I fished mainly with bamboo rod and bobber, like many another chlidren at that time. Fishing itself revealed for me my grandfather, because by the rules I could‘t go fishing at such a young age without accompanying of adult.

Afterwards I made my first independent steps with spinning rod on Berounka river and at the same time joined the fishing club in Prague district Vinohrady. Here I already participated my first spinning contest, from which it was already very close to fly fishing. And as fly fishing itself, then having engaged in this kind of fishing I was able to realize myself in fly tying.

Look: Fishing in Czechia – fly fishing & fly tying

Today You are engaged, however, not only in fly tying, but also in running Your own fly fishing store. What did You do before and when You decided to connect Your life completely with fishing?

J.S.: In fact I was quite successfully moving up the career ladder in several areas when decided to change my life. For instance it was a well-known company Philip Morris, followed by telephone operators O2 and Eurotel, where I held the position of the chief manager. As time passed by I became an executive director of the largest law firm in the Czech Republic – Havel a Holasek.

Having my own fly-shop was my dream, so I hired as manager and a salesman to the oldest Prague fly-fishing shop Muškáření Zemán, which was running by my colleagues at that time. Well, finally I was approached by several people who asked if I want to open my own store. We found very soon a suitable place in Prague Vinohrady and I started to fulfill my dream. My goal was to create a stylish fly fishing store with an indescribable atmosphere, where customers would feel good.

This is, if you say like that, an obsession with a specific goal, which at the end helps to achieve the desired horizon. I really like what I do for people, because this all is not just about selling, but also giving a joy. In the upshot fishing is not only about fish, but also about relationships, traveling and much more.

And You are really good at it, I like this place so much that sometimes do not want to leave! Btw, I see here a lot of famous names, such as Orvis, Simms, Cortland, Thomas & thomas and others. Is there anything unusual here?

J.S.: Definitely. We also represent here our own products, such as fly tying materials and wooden landing nets under the brand Johny Bacon, which is a free translation of my name into English. All landing nets are handmade mainly from nut, cherry, poplar and mahogany trees. The main emphasis in landing nets manufacturing we make on its durability and life-time service, which is provided by a high-quality glue as well as strong and at the same time lightweight construction. The customer can choose from 12 models, starting with small ones in various shapes and ending with long handle landing nets for boat fishing.

Look: Masterclasses – how to catch a big fish?

Very interesting! By the way, thank You very much for the landing net you presented me last fall. It’s so lightweight that sometimes I forget that I wear it on my back. In addition, the first fish I landed was a trophy rainbow trout during movie shooting about fishing in the Czech Republic for the Fishing & Hunting channel… Tell me, do You still have a spare time for fishing itself? And where do You usually prefer to go for fishing?

J.S.: Naturally, it is impossible to run a fishing shop and not to go fishing at the same time, since in this case it is already a part of the job. As for waters, I like fishing on Berounka and Sazava rivers in Prague surroundings, where I usually catch with a fly such a fish as chub, asp, barbel, roach…. I admire the sea and the ocean, mainly fishing for sea trout in Denmark or catching bonefish, GT and bluefin in Maldives or Mexico.

Since we are talking about fish, what catches have You just stocked in Your memory?

J.S.: For sure it will be a nile perch about 58 pounds in weight, caught from the shore in central Aswan (the Aswan Dam) by Rapala Shad Rap plug with orange stripes. A few pikes about a meter long from Scandinavia and Lapland, caught on a fly. Beautiful sea trout from Denmark, caught both on spinning and fly on the Fyn peninsula.
As for the czech catches, the most memorable were my successes from fishing contests, because earlier I participated in the competitions really very intensively, as many as 27 weekends from 52 per year.

Look: Fishing reports from Czechia

Talking about Your career in fishing sport, we can not overlook a lot of cups and medals in Your store. What moments do You consider as the best in your career?

J.S.: I got the title of the absolute champion of the Czech Republic in the individual classification with lure fishing in 1996. Along with this I would like to note my success in fly-fishing competitions and regional championships. Several times I was the champion of Prague in fly fishing and during one year I had a triple combination: champion of Prague in lure fishing, as well as a champion in regional competitions in team and individual classification. At the moment I actively participate in competitions of the second league, regional championships, but I do not go beyond the fly fishing. And still, now I’m trying to travel more, not contest.

Tell me, what fly fishing techniques are Your most favourable?

J.S.: Wet fly, streamer and dry fly. As far as gear I prefer rods producers Thomas & Thomas and Scott, reels from Waterworks Lamson, fly lines from Scientific Angler and Cortland. I’m rather a traditionalist in fly fishing.

Do You remember some interesting cases that have happened in Your fishing life?

J.S.: Yeah, I remember one bright case, when I caught the man riding a bike behind me when I was casting the fly line. He was terribly screaming and swearing, but finally we had not to call an ambulance, because it was just a small single barbless hook.
As far as more pleasant memories, I would like to mention GT and sailfish, which ease made screaming a fully tightened reel.

What would You like to wish to the readers of my blog?

J.S.: Perhaps I would like to remind that the reserves of nature are not unlimited and not every caught fish should be cooked on a frying pan. Take care of nature and the nature will pay you back a hundredfold.

Hello, Teruo! I’m very glad that You found some time for the interview!

How did You start to fish and how long have you been fishing?

T.N.: I have always been fishing since I was 5 year old. My father was an angler as well. Classic. I’m not rich or posh style angler, more like a hippie. I travel by local transport, eat local foods and share their philosophy etc. So that I, at least, stay there for 3 months.
Probably you now understand what kind of angler I am.

Which is Your favorite fishing method and why?

T.N.: Top water and jerkbait because, these are very offensive style of fishing. It’s also so exciting visually.

Famous people are always busy. How often do You go fishing just for pleasure?

T.N.: Well, almost half a year is spent in Amazon for fishing, it’s my pleasure. The photos etc. would be actually my work back in Japan though

Which company’s tackle do you have in Your bag or boat?

T.N.: Fishing rods from TULALA, reels are from Abu Garcia. My lures are mainly from YOZURI and Brazilian.

I am sure, You’ve visited many countries. Which “hot spot” in the world became Your favorite?

T.N.: Although I have been to several countries, it’s AMAZON INDEED!!

Traditional question: which is the largest fish You have ever caught?

T.N.: I’m actually not quite interested in size or weight. My point of view is more like an aqualist, so it’s more about how rare the fish are or excitement of game fishing. Well, it’s not a fish but my caiman record is 4 meters.

Tell us please some funny stories from Your fishing trips.

T.N.: I was almost dead, catching malaria…haha

Do You eat fish or just catch & release? May You describe how to cook Your favorite dish?

T.N.: Basically I only practice C&R but, especially Amazon is pure wild life place. I do eat fish if needed or if the fish is damaged. I just gril it with salt simply that is the best.

What is Your biggest challenge in fishing?

T.N.: I want to know deeply about the mysterious black water and the rest of untouched nature.

Thank you very much for the interview!

I wish You strong feet in traveling for new adventures, unforgettable impressions and I hope that one day we will cast our baits from one boat in the middle of the Amazon!