スミイカ和竿作り【竹ぞう】志村坂上／2012

Japanese Squid Rod Making by Takezo Shimura Sakagami, 2012 Excerpt from the October 19, 2012 issue Autumn fishing is off to a good start, with yellowtail, octopus, filefish, and squid. However, typhoons and strong winds often prevent us from setting out on the boat. This year, there may be particularly many such days. At such times, it's worth spending time maintaining your tackle, crafting your rig, or even making a Japanese rod. Here, we'll briefly introduce the appeal and process of Japanese rod making. The advantage of making your own rod is that you can adjust the length and action to your liking. However, the process can also be a great way to make new discoveries when your thoughts change or things don't go as planned. Because you work with the natural material of bamboo, which is unyielding in its flexibility, you can find the exact action and length you need. First, consider the type and thickness of bamboo needed based on the fish you're fishing for and the weight you'll be using. Hotei bamboo is common for sea fishing. Arrow bamboo is often used for delicate fishing such as tanago and mountain stream fishing. Depending on the target fish, it can also be used for sea fishing rods. 1. Decide how many pieces to join and what length to make. Since the nodes need to fit into the overall length, you need to choose from a wide variety of materials. Then, calculate the joint lengths and cut the rod into individual sections. This process is called "cutting and assembly." 2. Sand the cut pieces and remove the black dirt from the nodes with a cutter or similar tool. At the joints, sand down the bamboo's outer layer and strengthen it by wrapping it with sewing thread. Wrap from bottom to top, being careful not to overlap. This process takes time at first, but gets easier once you get used to it. 3. Use a "kozuri stick" to cut the bamboo core at the connecting section to fit the size of the inro core. Attach guides, apply lacquer in several coats, and add markers and decorations as desired. Going through these steps will allow you to appreciate the unique characteristics of the bamboo and deepen your appreciation for the rod. Your fishing trips will be even more fulfilling. Some fishing tackle shops offer workshops on how to make the rod, sell bamboo materials, and even semi-finished products, so feel free to inquire. Editorial Summary Takezo, located in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo, offers free lessons on how to make Japanese fishing rods. The only cost is the cost of materials. A single offshore fishing rod can be made for around ¥10,000. Tools are available in the store, so you can work on it there. If you want to take the rod home, you'll need specialized tools like a file, but these can be purchased here. Popular rods are for pufferfish, Japanese whiting, filefish, squid, and flathead. For freshwater tanago, they also teach you how to make small items like reeling tackle. Owner Takeoka also sells products carefully crafted by the owner. Photo 1 shows a squid rod for giant squid fishing, which has been filed and reeled in for reinforcement. Offshore fishing requires a stiff action, but it's quite interesting to take advantage of the strength of bamboo to create a rod. The bamboo's nodes taper upward, but this can be used to create strength. Knowing how to utilize the natural taper is key. The rod is sure to have a unique action. Photo 2 shows the owner instructing. By carving the core straight and drilling holes, you can create a rod with a strong joint. While it can be easily filed, it's surprisingly difficult. By focusing on "straightness" in this way, you may be able to straighten not only the bamboo, but your body and mind as well. Takezou Website http://www.takezou.shop-site.jp/ 03-5392-1016 Weekly Tsuri News Website http://www.tsurinews.co.jp/ I created this video with the YouTube Video Editor (   / editor  )