アユイング

Basic Structure of the Rig

• Rod: A 9–10 ft rod designed for Ayu‑ing is recommended. Eging rods or seabass rods can also be used as substitutes.
• Reel: Use a 2000–2500 size spinning reel or a baitcasting reel suitable for lightweight lures.
• Line: The standard setup is PE line (0.6–0.8号) as the main line, paired with a fluorocarbon leader (1–2号).
• Lures (Ayu‑ing Minnows): Use dedicated minnows in the 9–11cm range. They come in floating, sinking, and jointed types, chosen according to depth and current speed. There is no front hook; instead, a special hook is attached to the rear via a built‑in keeper.
• Hooks (Ikari Hooks): Three‑pronged ikari hooks (fox‑type, etc.) used in traditional ayu fishing are recommended. Sharpness directly affects catch rate, so frequent replacement is essential. The standard tippet length is three finger widths (about 7–10cm), adjusted based on fish activity.

Fishing Procedure

1. Preparation & Regulations:
   Always purchase a fishing permit before your trip and confirm that Ayu‑ing is allowed in the river or area.
   Wear a life jacket for safety and shoes designed for slippery riverbeds (such as welt‑spike soles).
2. Spot Selection:
   Ayu feed on algae growing on rocks, so target stones with visible “bite marks” or shiny brown surfaces.
   Prime spots include “se” and “se‑gashira”, where the current begins to speed up and territorial behavior is strongest.
3. Casting:
   Search widely in a fan shape, or use a slow upstream retrieve from downstream (“vertical fishing”).
   Avoid long casts—approach carefully and fish close to avoid spooking ayu.
4. Action (Luring):
   Rather than reeling, use the river’s current to hold the lure in place (stay) or slide it gently sideways into the ayu’s territory.
   Maintain a range where you can feel the lure’s lip occasionally hitting rocks—this bottom contact is crucial.
5. Bite & Hook‑set:
   Ayu often body‑check the lure to drive it out of their territory, producing a sharp “thud” in your hand.
   When hooked, avoid lifting the rod too high; keep it low and guide the fish in slowly to reduce the chance of tearing free.
6. Landing:
   Scoop the fish with a dedicated net and store it in a “tomobune” (floating keeper) to maintain freshness.