Quote Originally Posted by Chris Stewart View Post
There are telescopic rods in Japan that are used in exactly that way, although they are shorter than 8m. They are used in high mountain streams where there isn't always room for a back cast. The line is very short relative to the rod, and the rods are quite stiff. They are generally (but not entirely) used with bait, and when a fish is hooked, it is brought in by collapsing the rod. Small fish are often lifted completely out of the water (even with the rod still fully extended) and then brought in by collapsing the rod.
Interesting. I got the impression that he was using a different type rod (more like keiryu) but, as I said, it seems to be working for him.