Zen Suzume Tenkara Rod Revisited

A few years ago I reviewed the Zen Suzume Tenkara Rod. I found it to be a versatile small stream rod. I did make a few adjustments to its action so that it better matched my preferences, but overall I liked the rod quite a lot. I fished it for about a year, then reluctantly sold it.

Recently, I received a Suzume from Karin Miller at Zen Tenkara to re-review. Since I first fished the rod in 2016, Zen has added an option of changing the action of the rod by using a slightly stiffer tip section. Called the Interchangeable Performance Rod Tip, it comprises the top two sections of the rod and can replace the standard top two sections. By doing this, the rod action is stiffened slightly and casting and hookset characteristics are modified. In essence, this interchangeable tip section does to the Suzume what I was trying to achieve all those years ago.

Because the rod looks the same as it did in 2016, I refer you to my 2016 review for its physical characteristics. However, it should be noted that in 2016 the zoom post in the butt cap was nylon plastic, now its metal. It looks more refined and higher quality. As far as measurements, there are some differences between the 2016 version and the 2025 version, so for this review I’ll stick to the 2025 version.

Measurements

Performance

The Zen Suzume Tenkara Rod is a wonderful small stream rod. I liked it in 2016 and I still like it. It casts a #3 fluorocarbon level line well at all three lengths, but as you’d expect, the long lengths are more pleasurable to cast than the shortest length. Also, the length of the line makes a big difference. When fishing small, tight creeks you don’t end up casting very much anyway, due to the intervening branches. But modified roll cast and bow and arrow cast (slingshot cast) are excellent with this rod. For more casting analysis, I’ll refer you back to my 2016 review, because it’s about the same. It should be noted that the 2016 version was slightly softer in action with the Standard Tip than the current version. This is born out in the CCS and RFI numbers.

While I prefer to categorize rods by the Rod Flex Index and 10 Penny Bend Profile, Zen uses the FRAE (Fly Rod Approximate Equivalency) rating. In a nut shell, this system compares the action of a Zen tenkara rod to a conventional western fly rod. In the case of the Suzume, Zen states that it compares in action to a 2-weight fly rod.

The Standard Tip (as provided when purchasing) allows you to cast a light level line accurately. Exchanging to the Performance Tip stiffens the rod slightly and makes hooksets a little quicker and more decisive. In reality, there’s not a great difference in performance between the Standard Tip and Performance Tip, but that little difference may be preferred by some anglers.

Here is a brief vlog of the Suzume being used on a mountain creek, catching cutthroat trout:

Conclusion

Zen Tenkara is a highly respected tenkara company, and the Zen Suzume is an excellent rod. It excels at small creeks and streams, and it very versatile with its multi-length design. It’s also a reasonably packable rod, being only 54 cm (21 in.) when nested. It is a little more expensive ($268 USD at the time of publishing) compared to other similar designed rods from other companies, but it does come with an extra Standard Tip section replacement, rod sleeve and hard rod tube. It is robust, yet functional rod, and has the added feature of increased versatility with the optional Interchangeable Performance Tip section.

The Suzume should be on every small stream anglers radar. It’s versatile and fun to use, and doesn’t disappoint!

Disclaimer: My opinion regarding this rod is just that, my opinion. Your opinion may differ.  Also, your rod may not have the same length, issues, or functionality as my rod. There are variations between rods, even in the same production run. No description can fully tell you how a rod feels or fishes. For this, you must personally hold, cast, and fish the rod then make up your own mind. I was sent the rod by the Zen Tenkara to review. I have no formal affiliation with Zen Tenkara and there was no expectation of a positive review.

---

Do you have a story to tell? A photo to share? A fly recipe that’s too good to keep secret? If you would like to contribute content to Tenkara Angler, click HERE for more details.

When you buy something using the retail links within our articles or Gear Shop, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Tenkara Angler does not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.