Micro Fishing Gear

[MuskieBait]

Any ultralight rod would do...but I do truly enjoy the tenkara rods. Most of them are quite expensive for casual micro fishing...and the Shakespear Crappie Poles are too big and heavy.

However, recently, Chris Stewart has this rod to offer. For $32, it looks and sounds like a really good micro rod.

http://www.tenkarabum.com/shimotsuke-kosasa.html

I'm actually considering getting one.

I don't use floats. I like a tight line so I can feel the lightest bite...and also be able to set the hook immediately. What I've started to do is to add a small bead about 1" from the hook so I can determine the location of the hook much easier. Most of my micro fishing is done by sight fishing. I want to be able to see my hook and see the micro suck in the bait. This is especially important with darters.

For hooks, I've used tanago hooks...but I find the hook up ratio and also landing ratio is rather poor. Maybe I just lack technique. I find small fly hooks...size #18 and smaller are good.

You also need some light tippet...1-2lb tippet is good.