There is no reason whey they wouldn't work on a "Western" fly fishing rig, but they will likely require the "appropriate presentation".

I would define Tenkara style flies that historically originated in Japan, whereas if you do some research, not all "Tenkara" flies have forward facing hackle, there are some with short stiff hackles, some that look very similar to traditional soft hackles and flymphs. Check these sites:

- http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-strea...g/tenkara.html
- http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-strea.../tenkara3.html
- http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-strea.../tenkara4.html
- http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-strea.../tenkara6.html
- http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-strea.../tenkara5.html

What is fascinating to me is that similar flies, equipment and techniques evolved (I assume) independently from each other in various geographical locations (Japan, Northern Italy, Highlands, etc.).

Tight Lines, -K