The Sakasa Kebari is usually defined by firstly, its reverse hackle and secondly, by its simplicity[1] as compared to western style flies.

This fly was originally created to be used in the small, high gradient streams in Japan while fishing for native trout and char.

[citation needed] This fly was originally created and used by sustenance fishermen in Japan,[5] hence its minimalistic construction.

While most are unweighted, bead heads and lead wrapping can be used to apply weight so the fly can be fished deeper than otherwise possible.

[citation needed] While Sakasa Kebari all have similar attributes, such as the reverse hackle and a simpler construction than their western counterparts there are many different variations.

[7] The Takayama Sakasa Kebari, in addition to thread and a pheasant feather, also uses peacock herl for the thorax of the fly.

[citation needed] Tenkara anglers in Japan have been known to create unique fly patterns using alternative materials.

[11] Instead of ‘matching the hatch’ the Sakasa Kebari tends to be a more impressionistic fly, it roughly mimics a large variety of insects and not one in particular.

Flies designed in the same style, with the reverse hackle, have been known to be used in other parts of the world where stream fishing is popular.