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Product Spotlight

Consumer Choice Award Winner: Zen Tenkara Suzume Tri-Zoom Tenkara Rod

Product Spotlight

Everyone's favorite rod: The Tri-Zoom Suzume is the perfect rod for those small to mid-sized streams, creeks and bluelines. Fishable at 3 ideal lengths; 7'7", 9'3" and 10'8", the Suzume gives you effective options for a wide variety of situation and water. Weighing only 2.3oz and collapsing to 20.75", this rod can literally go anywhere. Accurate, graceful, responsive with a heart and backbone of gold, it's no wonder the Suzume won the Consumer Choice Award of BEST TENKARA ROD - 2026!

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ZEN'S HAPPY CUSTOMERS!

I'm sold on the rod and your company

- Frank, SC

Quality rods and gear designed to push the boundaries of tenkara by someone who enjoys pushing the boundaries and wants to share the experience

- Douglas, Alberta Canada

Such an exquisite, in depth and open sharing for an answer to an email inquiry. I did not expect it. I loved it. The kind of company, answer and owner one seldom experiences today

- Robert, Chicago

I want to thank you for the rapid response you gave me regarding my new Zen Tenkara Zako Rod I bought at the fly fishing expo! I got the new tips the next day after we talked! Thanks again for caring about a customer!

- James Franklin

I really appreciate the incredible customer service.

- Tyson, CA

Best Customer support experience that I've Ever had! This is a great company with great products!

- Jim, CO

Love the Sagi. Really apparent when I had to use my “other” rod yesterday. Thank you for making such a great product.

- Ron Wedemeyer

My wife loves her Zen Tenkara rod and has caught trout throughout Colorado. We have a wonderful opportunity to go to El Faro Lodge in Cuba. Thanks for a great product and all your leadership in the field.

- Mike West

WOW ! You totally caught me off guard with the Suzume rod. I was speechless

- Richard, Denver

Own 3 of your rods!

- Tracy

It was an absolute treat to get to hear Karin Miller (Owner, Zen Tenkara) present and discuss tenkara

- Matt, Colorado Springs

The Sagi rod is the bomb!

- Anonymous

Thanks once again for your personal amazing pointers you’ve provided on this page. This has been really unbelievably generous of you to give without restraint.

- Gremer

Outstanding customer service with such a quick response, thank you. Really impressive.

- Scott E.

Your enthusiasm for pushing the limits of what can be done with tenkara is contagious

- Doug

Thanks - you guys rock. I fly fish conventional but started out my 9 yo daughter on Tenkara this spring - her big sister (24) just moved home after college and grad school and got a little jealous, so I’m trying to get in several days on the water before the season closes in mid-October. Tenkara is PERFECT for our small, spring-fed trout streams and brookies on the Driftless. Both girls could immediately focus on reading the stream, sighting the rise, presentation, feeling the take and setting the hook. I was shocked at how many fundamentals they covered when they didn’t have to worry about line management. It compressed 2 or 3 seasons of learning into 1 season. They’re going to make me look bad pretty soon and I’ll just be the guy hauling the water, snacks and net. But, I’m a believer - begrudgingly. Thanks again.

- Ben

I am delighted with my Sagi rod. I took it to Mexico last year and managed to hook a couple baby tarpon

- Anonymous

Loving the Zen experience

- Harold, Oregon

F*ckin’ tremendous

- Burt

Great Gear!

- Anonymous

Used your floating line today for Golden trout in the Kernville, CA watershed – was I impressed! Casts easily with good control even in windy conditions, floated well without causing drag. Great line – worth the price.

- Art

Guaranteed to put many smiles on many faces!

- Robert, Denver

About Zen Tenkara

At Zen we're all about the duality of finding balance on the water and defining American Tenkara.

The yin: We strive for optimal balance between elegance and practicality, strength and beauty, uniqueness and tradition so that customers can truly experience peace and pleasure from their purchase.

The yang: Zen has taken traditional Japanese Tenkara where it hasn't gone before, testing limits, breaking boundaries and defining American Tenkara so that customers can push their skills to achieve a thrill like no other.

Learn more about Zen Tenkara's Story.

Zen Community

Zen is committed to helping you find your balance on the water. Simplicity and functionality drive the innovative designs of our products, but we care equally about your experience on the water. Whether you desire the tranquility of a small stream or the high thrill of saltwater species, we're here to offer guidance and support. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates. Connect through our Zen Blog for stories and articles. And Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for tips, information sharing and Zen specials.

Zen Destinations

Make each day an adventure to remember—and leave the crowds behind. The key to an unforgettable fishing adventure is location, prime location.

From Alaska to Mexico to Argentina and beyond, get ready for a trip of a lifetime and a Tenkara experience like no other.

Introducing our latest destination: Costa Rica.

Dan Van Buskirk
6 days ago
Nice quality and fit
Photo from customer review
Response from the owner:Makes us smile ear to ear
Andrea Oetting
1 month ago
OMG! I’m still thinking about the feel of casting the different Tenkara lines vs a western rod. I learned so much yesterday and I’m so grateful for how you taught us. You have a gift for teaching in a thoughtful and fun way. I’m psyched to get on the river with my Tenkara rod!!
Response from the owner:Awesome! So glad to hear it. You got this!
Kyle Flippo
1 month ago
Shipped quickly. Super happy with the line I got. Works great trying to get out further on those alpine lakes.
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Response from the owner:Awesome! That's what we kind to hear. So glad you're enjoying the line. Thanks for the kind review. Tight lines and happy fishing.
Jeff Wylde
2 months ago
Acquired the Suzumi and am thrilled by it's casting feel at all 3 lengths. I put it to use regularly on many small to mid sized streams last season, it's now my go-to rod for small streams!
Response from the owner:Thanks for choosing Zen. Let us know if we can support you in anyway. The Suzume is a GREAT rod.
Da Kaiser
3 months ago
Purchased the 22′ Hi Vis line. It’s a pale lime green, not overly neon but does help with seeing the line at dusk and also in bright sunlight. I purchased it to try out some long line Tenkara on local reservoirs. I have paired it with my TenkaraUSA Satoki, using a 9ft tapered leader and usually around 5ft of tippit. The Hi Vis line works great, while my casting of it is still a work in progress. When it all syncs up, it works perfect. I have landed multiple trout in the 12- 20″ range with no problem . Very happy with the purchase.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much. Very glad you're enjoying the line and doing some experimenting with longer lines. If we can offer any assistance or help please don't hesitate to reach out. Tight lines and happy fishing¡
K New
4 months ago
I love my zen tenkara suzume rod. It is so easy to pack I have started taking with me on all my day hikes near water, in case I want to fish. Customer service is also great. Questions are answered promptly.
Response from the owner:Whoot! Whoot! That's what we love to hear. It's not just about the rods it's also about the service. Thanks for taking us along on your hiking adventures.
Chad Grossman
5 months ago
It's clear from your first interaction with Karin how much passion and care she has for this community. She'll do anything she can to support tenkara anglers, regardless of whether or not they become customers. Being a customer, however, I must say I am absolutely blown away by the amazing support I've received from Zen Tenkara. Fantastic products, and great customer service - you couldn't ask for anything better!
Response from the owner:Thank you Chad. Always happy to help support other anglers, tenkara or otherwise 😊
Marty Shelton
7 months ago
My experience with Zen Tenkara goes back about 12 years now. Somewhat indirectly, but great nonetheless. I purchased a kit which had everything I needed while in Estes Park Colorado. And since this was my first introduction to Tenkara, the kit was invaluable. Fast forward to now. There were some items that were missing in my current tackle kit and need to be replenished. The crew at Zen Tenkara were more than prompt to fill the order. And they also went the extra mile with a special fly box. These boxes are works of art. And the line spools are just as dramatic. While in my favorite place, The Seed Exchange in Decorah Iowa, I honor each trout I catch there with Zen Tenkara equipment. Just the fact that the logo shows peace and fulfillment, is both beautiful and satisfying in such a beautiful environment. I’m not one to recommend restaurants and places to stay. But as far as equipment that lets me enjoy peace and solitude and to be one with the water….. Zen Tenkara is spot on. Thank you for being the art in our sport.
Response from the owner:Thanks Marty! We like our customers to be happy and work hard to make every purchase enjoyable. It's not just about delivering quality gear, its also delivering high quality customer service. Tight lines, happy fishing and fill that flybox with lots more wonderful memories.
jarrod megert
7 months ago
Just as advertised . Happy with my floating tenkara line !
Response from the owner:Thanks Jarrod glad you like it. And thank you for taking a moment to give us a review! We're here if you ever have a question or need support.
Frank Field
10 months ago
Honestly, I haven’t yet purchased one of their rods, but I subscribed to their newsletter. It only comes occasionally, and is written in a friendly way. Almost like you’re talking with a guide streamside, or a pro in a fly shop.
Response from the owner:Thanks Frank. We try not to bombard your inbox too much and aim for about every 6ish weeks for a newsletters. We don't want to annoy you. And we're glad you get our casual conversation style. We love talking to our customers, hearing their stories, answering questions and providing some advice here and there. Thanks for subscribing and reading- and for your review :) If there's a subject you want to hear about, let us know!
benaniba ala
1 year ago
Response from the owner:Thanks so much!
Robert Mayville
1 year ago
Great product. Great service. I own two zen tenkara rods.
Response from the owner:Awesome! We aim to please and make sure "happy" is a part of your Zen Tenkara experience. Thanks for the kind words 😁
Jama Goers
1 year ago
I learned so much during my 3-hour lesson with Karen ! She made learning tenkara fun, and was super approachable. We covered a ton of information through discussion, written materials, demos, and hands-on practice. I asked so many questions, and she explained it all with patience and clarity. She helped me understand not just how to use my rod, but the science and technique behind it. Her creative approach helped me "feel" the rod in a whole new way. I left the lesson totally fired up to get back on the water. If you’re thinking about a lesson....go for it. And if you’re looking for a rod, you’ve found the right company. I love my Suimenka Tenkara Rod!
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Response from the owner:Thrilled you enjoyed it and learned a lot. We are passionate about what we do! Thanks for the review and for choosing Zen Tenkara!
Ronald Stokley
2 years ago
Always informative. Great insite.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the kind review.
Roy Ramdeen
2 years ago
Great Tenkara...
Response from the owner:THANK YOU!
Scott Haskell
2 years ago
I own the Taka and the Suzumi, both of which are beautifully made and finished, well balanced and cast effortlessly! Took a bad fall a couple of years ago with the Suzumi in my back pocket and shattered every single section. I called Zen and left a message explaining the problem, as it is my favorite smallest stream rod and I was headed to a Tenkara campout in NH in about 1-1/2 weeks! Karin called me on her way back from a meet up in Montana and had the rod in the mail in time! Amazing customer service!
Response from the owner:Thanks for the kind review! It's not just about the rodsWe believe it's about the whole experience.
Hajiko Ahmef
2 years ago
Response from the owner:THANK YOU!
jay beck
2 years ago
Great quality company, wonderful rods and gear with the personal touch of great people!
Response from the owner:Thanks Jay. Glad we could take care of you in a pinch.
Philip Bain
2 years ago
I had a Tenkara lesson with Karin recently. I consider myself an intermediate level Tenkara angler. She gave me a comprehensive overview of Tenkara equipment and tactics. I learned so much and can’t wait to put these tips and tactics into practice on the water. I especially appreciated that she spent a great deal of time on the “why” behind many of the tactics. She is an excellent sensei!
Response from the owner:Thanks Phil! We're here to help if you need any support in the future. Tight lines and remember those "stops" in the front and back cast ;)
Mike Garrison
2 years ago
Everyone at Zen Tenkara delivers top shelf service and support. The owner Karin has personally answered questions and provided suggestions to me that have improved my experience with Tenkara AND regular fly fishing. I recommend her and here company without reservation.
Response from the owner:We appreciate your kind review and strive to treat customers the way we'd like to be treated.
Dale Y
2 years ago
Got the Kyojin rod for going after larger fish like salmon that I generally don’t have to cast far and figured this would work perfectly. Just lawn casted so far but will definitely take out this fall. Ordering was easy and delivery quick.
Response from the owner:Thanks for the review. Have fun with the Kyojin (stay out of the tip and play to the side) and send us pics when you land some lunkers. Tight Lines!
Demetria Montoya
3 years ago
I purchased my suzume zen tenkara rod two years ago - I love it! The Zen Tenkara group at the Fly Fishing Expo in Denver are top notch, both when I purchased my rod, and again today, when I came in for help to replace a broken part. My granddaughter and I accidentally stepped on my rod when pulling in her first fish on a tenkara rod! Thank you so much…I would recommend the rod to anyone wanting to give fly fishing a try, and the company to anyone who wants over the top customer service! Thank you Karin and all!
Photo from customer review
Response from the owner:We are so glad to have been able to take care of you and get you back on the water (once it warms up). And good for YOU for teaching your granddaughter! Tight lines to both of you and happy fishing. It's not just about selling you a rod, it's about supporting your adventures! Thank you for the kind review.
Michael Walsh
3 years ago
I own the Sagi rod and it’s been excellent. Recently I had a broken Lillian and I emailed the company and I believe the owner emailed me back in minutes. I explained my problem and she sent me not only the replacement parts but a couple extra goodys too. I would strongly recommend this company for buying a tenkara rod. They are the most versatile rod I’ve ever owned and I own over thirty rods.
Response from the owner:Thanks for taking the time to give us a review. So happy you are enjoying your Sagi and had a good customer service expereince. Tight lines and happy fishing!
Dan Van Buskirk
3 years ago
Very tight and exceptional build quality! My favorite rod for fishing mountain streams. Like using a high end 3 weight fly rod that fits in a day pack! Thank you Karin for your expertise and guidance.
Photo from customer review
Response from the owner:The pleasure is all mine/ours 😄
J T
3 years ago
These rods are beautifully and thoughtfully made. Zen Tenkara's products have little special touches that let you know someone cares about what they are making. Customer service is excellent. Karin has been great to communicate with and has shown her thoughtfulness and love for the customer each time she has shipped. I am sold on this brand.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review Jerry. We aim to please and treat our customers the way we would want to be treated ourselves. We know you had a choice and appreciate and are honored that you chose Zen Tenkara.

All rods come complete with a spare tip, rod sock, hard carbon fiber case and our "No-Hassles" guarantee.

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