I also started with the Yamame for the same reasons. I do , when I'm lucky , run into some sizable fish at times. I started with the furled line from Tenkara USA but I think it's a little light for the rod. I want to go to a bit heaver one but am not sure which to try. Maybe I should ask John Scott. He is the guru of furled lines for sure. Let us all know how the new rod does when you get a chance to fish it. I think you'll really like it.