Dru -

Despite the fact that the Ayu is heavier than the Iwana ( I have and fish both ), it actually feels lighter in hand to me and fishes more comfortably over the course of a day than the Iwana. While lighter, the Iwana seems to take more attention and energy to fish. The Yamame was downright unpleasant for me compared to the other two.

I suggest that you spend as much time as possible with a variety of Tenkara rods to see which one fits best regardless of length, weight, or action.

John