ミャク釣り（渓流）

Basic Structure of the Rig

• Rod (Keiryu Rod): Telescopic rods around 50cm when collapsed are common, with an extended length of about 5 meters being easy to handle. Depending on river width, rods between 4.5m and 6m are used.
• Line:
  Tenjo Line (Top Line) — Connected to the lillian at the rod tip, improving overall strength and visibility.
  Sinking Line — Thin line around 0.3–0.4号.
  Markers — 2–3 bright markers (yellow, pink, etc.) are attached to help visually detect line movement and bites.
• Sinker (Split Shot): Choose weights such as G1–G5 or B–3B depending on current speed. Usually placed 15–25cm above the hook.
• Hook: Stream hooks around size 5 are standard, adjusted according to bait size.
• Bait:
  Store‑bought — Waxworms, salmon eggs, and worms. For salmon eggs, hook two eggs and avoid piercing the orange center to prevent tearing.
  River Insects — Locally collected insects such as flat mayfly nymphs (hirata), kinpaku, and caddis larvae often produce better results.

Fishing Procedure

1. Preparation & Fishing Permit: Many rivers require a fishing permit. Wear felt‑soled waders for traction and polarized sunglasses to see underwater more clearly.
2. Spot Selection: Target slack water beside fast currents, behind rocks, below weirs, and undercut bedrock.
3. Approach (Stealth): Since trout face upstream, the basic method is to fish upstream from downstream. Approach quietly and stay low to avoid being seen.
4. Casting: Bend the rod tip slightly and use its rebound to underhand‑cast the bait slightly upstream of the target.
5. Drifting: Adjust the rod to let the bait drift naturally with the current (natural drift).
6. Bite & Hook‑set: When the marker stops or is pulled underwater, it indicates a bite. Snap your wrist to set the hook sharply.
7. Landing & Release: Use the rod’s elasticity to bring the fish close and scoop it with a net. Many rivers require releasing fish under 15cm to protect the population.