Aug 1, 2013 - 1 min read

Indian Crow, Kutchan

A Fly Fishing Specialty Shop

By Chris Barnes

Community writer

Indian Crow specialty fly fishing shop in Kutchan, Niseko

There are various new flies lying around the store

Indian Crow stocks G Loomis fly rods, considered among the best in the world

Fly tying is an art form, the level of intricacy in Indian Crow's flies is second to none

I have visited many fishing shops, Indian Crow rates up there with the best in my books

Unique fly tying materials sourced from around the world

The shop is small however stocks almost anything you ever need to start fishing

Most of the stock inside Indian Crow is suited to the local region

Only the best quality Pheasant fly materials

Some of Urushihara-san's speciality flies

Only the best quality fly fishing accesorries in Indian Crow

Fly fishing clothing accessories are also sold at Indian Crow

Indian Crow specializes in intricate hand-made flies and some of the best fly fishing equipment available in Japan. The Shiribetsu River runs through the Niseko area and offers some of the most outstanding river fishing in Japan. The fishing season typically runs from May through October, with the best months being in July and August when dry fly fishing is at its peak. The Shiribetsu River is home to Chum, Cherry and Red-Spotted Masu Salmon, Whitespotted Char, Ayu, Stone Loach, Dolly Varden Trout, Brook Trout, and the Japanese Huchen - which is on the brink of extinction. Being an avid fisherman, I was excited to stumble across this store and was completely blown away by the quality of flies and fly tying accessories sold at Indian Crow. Urushihara-san ties all of his flies on sight and is happy to recommend the best suited flies for the local region and show you photos of his latest local catch.

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By Chris Barnes

Community writer

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Chris Barnes Photographer 10 years ago

Thanks Ed. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to wet a line while I was there. The owner said most of the locations were overgrown with foliage and really difficult to access at that time of year. In the autumn when the leaves start falling is the best and most accessible time to fish in the Shiribetsu region.