two-target fish
There are two types of native species for fly fishing in the Tohoku mountain streams: Iwana and Yamame.
- yamame
-
- iwana
-
Average-sized Yamame and typical-looking Iwana in our home river.
yamame
(Cherry Salmon)
Yamame, which are a type of landlocked cherry salmon, are referred to as the "Queen of the Mountain Stream" due to their exceptional beauty. The appearance of Yamame changes dramatically throughout the seasons. In spring, Yamame are slightly darker. By summer, they display beautiful parr marks, which then begin to fade as their entire bodies darken with spawning coloration in autumn. Some males also develop a pointed and hooked snout.
When it comes to fishing behavier, they are naturally quick and nervous. As they get bigger, they become more cautious and difficult to fish with a fly. This means there are only a few chances to cast, which is why the joy of catching "Shaku Yamame" feels so exciting.
iwana
（Japanese Char）
Iwana (Japanese char) are the signature fish of the Tohoku mountain streams.
Although they belong to the same species, their appearance and patterns vary greatly depending on the environment of the stream they inhabit.
Some individuals have dark spots that allow them to blend into the rock face.
While others possess bodies that shimmer with a golden hue—their expressions are infinitely varied.
Even if you have fished for them before, standing in a different stream means encountering an entirely new target—this is the essence of Iwana fishing in Tohoku.
