Returning to Tenkara and Black Moshannon

Article by Jerry Reitz

After a long hiatus due to knee surgery, the call of the stream became too strong to resist. With my trusty 10-foot favorite tenkara rod in hand and my loyal Blue Heeler, Sydney, by my side, I finally made my way back to the familiar waters of Black Moshannon. It’s been a while, and the anticipation of feeling a fish on the line with just a simple rod, a 3.5-weight level line, and my go-to “one bug” pattern was perfect for this outing.

Black Moshannon is a unique and challenging stream, and it quickly reminded me of its distinct characteristics. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the water’s dark, almost black, hue. This isn’t due to pollution but rather a natural phenomenon caused by the plant tannins leached from decaying vegetation in the surrounding bogs and forests. The dense canopy overhead also contributes to the never-ending shade, further deepening the water’s color.

This darkness presents a unique set of challenges for the tenkara angler. Visibility, both for spotting fish and presenting the fly, is significantly reduced. It forces a more intuitive approach, relying on feel and subtle cues rather than sight. The “one bug” strategy becomes even more critical here; rather than constantly changing patterns, I focus on presenting my trusted fly with precision and allowing its natural drift to entice a strike.

Sydney, ever the patient companion, seemed to understand the solemnity of the moment. She stood vigil on a fallen log that spanned the stream, her keen eyes scanning the water, perhaps for a glimpse of what I was after. The current here can be surprisingly swift, especially after recent rains, and the uneven stream bed, often littered with submerged logs and rocks, demands careful footing, a particular concern for my recovering knee.

Despite the challenges, the return to Black Moshannon was a triumphant one. The rhythmic cast of the tenkara rod felt natural again, and the subtle tug of a fish on the line, even in the dark water, was a profound joy. Each trout brought to hand, a vibrant rainbow, a speckled brown felt like a small victory, a testament to the resilience of both nature and oneself.

Stepping back into the life of tenkara fishing after a long absence was more than just a recreational outing; it was a therapeutic reconnection with a passion. With Sydney as my steadfast companion, and the enduring challenge of Black Moshannon’s dark waters, every cast was a reminder of the simple beauty and deep satisfaction that this minimalist form of fishing provides.

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Jerry Reitz, a native of Pennsylvania, developed a deep-rooted love for the outdoors at a young age. Growing up in the Nittany Valley, he spent his days exploring the limestone small mountain streams and honing his angling skills. In recent years, Jerry’s passion for fishing took an exciting turn when he discovered tenkara.

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