Backing line for Tenkara

[Deleted]

Hi

I have tested Guideline Micron Backing 20lb as a tenkara line, and I can't decide whether I like it or not. It casts really, really well, it is soft and turns over well. And it is very, very visible, being flouro yellow and thick as it is. But using it sometimes makes me feel like I am handling a whip instead of fishing tenkara. Am I simply prejudiced thinking that it would only be suitable for old W-style flyfishermen who like their Tenkara rods stiff and prefer casting with heavy lines or is it a good choice for Tenkara fishing?
Have you tried it, and is there a 15lb micron backing (or similar) available somewhere?

[custheyder]

I've tried various braids and backings and find they hold water making them heavy and difficult to hold off the water after a while. Some I found too supple and it was difficult to transfer the power from the rod through to the tip.

I've also tried things like Powerflex and tapered shock leaders. I find them either too light or too thick and badly effected by the wind.

Fluorocarbon level line all the way, or tapered fluorocarbon with a hi-vis marker added at the tip.

[daves]

I fully agree. The braid may well; cast easily but a light fluorocarbon level line (3 weight) will cast well & will be much easier to hold off the water. Bright braid is great for use as a short indicator (held off the water) when bugging with Tenkara rods but I'd never use it as a casting line.

[cm_stewart]

Dec 3, 2013 11:54:56 GMT @tenkaraswede said:

Am I simply prejudiced thinking that it would only be suitable for old W-style flyfishermen who like their Tenkara rods stiff and prefer casting with heavy lines or is it a good choice for Tenkara fishing?

It's not a question of prejudice, it's a question of whether you like it. I've experimented with backing as well and always come back to fluorocarbon. Cortland makes a 12 lb and 20 lb Dacron backing. It is available only in white but the white is quite visible.