Slow Loop is a Japanese manga written and illustrated by Maiko Uchino, serialized by Houbunsha since November 2018.
The series follows Hiyori Minagi, a high school student who bonds with her new stepsister, Koharu Minagi, through fly-fishing after their parents marry.
Set in seaside Yokosuka, it combines heartfelt family drama with detailed fishing and outdoor experiences.
The manga is acclaimed for its warm portrayal of found family, gentle humor, and authentic depiction of fishing as both a hobby and a way to connect with others.
An anime adaptation aired from January to March 2022, further boosting its popularity.
Creator Maiko Uchino developed Slow Loop after being encouraged by her editor to explore her personal hobbies in manga form, following her previous series' conclusion.
Although Uchino originally considered a camping manga, the already ongoing Laid-Back Camp prompted her to choose fishing, another favorite pastime—specifically fly-fishing, which she had the most experience in.
The series title, Slow Loop, was suggested by a friend and references a term in fly-fishing that contrasts with the technical "tight loop,” symbolizing the story’s relaxed vibe.
Early on, the working title was "Totokoi!"—a playful combination of a child’s word for fish and the hope of catching one.
Slow Loop is principally set in a coastal city inspired by Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture.
It features various local spots: a fly-fishing tackle shop called "Permit," the family-run fishing boat company "Fishing Fuku," and the students' high school, "Minami Kanagawa High School.”
The realistic settings play a crucial role in grounding the characters’ shared outdoor pursuits while also serving as backdrops for deeper family and friendship bonds.
Distinctive mascots like “Sea-nyan” (a catfish character) appear in various merchandise and background details, adding comfort and charm to the world.
Three years after losing her father to illness, Hiyori Minagi finds solace in fly-fishing, something she learned from him.
One day by the sea, she meets the cheerful and unpredictable Koharu Minagi, who is new to the area and immediately intrigued by Hiyori's hobby.
Their connection deepens when Koharu’s father and Hiyori’s mother marry, making them stepsisters.
Both girls, each carrying unique family scars and quirks, develop their bond and grow together, especially with the support of Hiyori's childhood friend, Koi Yoshinaga.
As Hiyori, Koharu, and their friends embark on fishing adventures, they discover the joys of family, friendship, and overcoming personal challenges.
- Fly-fishing: A method of angling using artificial flies as bait, emphasized in the series for its soothing and skillful nature.
- Slow Loop: Refers to a specific casting technique in fly-fishing, where the line forms a gentle loop in the air, reflecting the manga’s leisurely tone.
- Permit: The name of the fishing tackle shop, drawn from a real-life fly-fishing store.
- Sea-nyan: A recurring mascot—a catfish hybrid that adds a playful touch throughout the manga and anime, from keychains to actual merchandise.
The manga began serialization in Manga Time Kirara Forward and is now available with ten volumes as of March 2025.
It will continue on the Comic FUZ platform after a brief hiatus due to the author's health.
The anime adaptation aired on major networks such as AT-X and Tokyo MX from January to March 2022.
Various digital platforms like Nico Nico Live and dAnime Store offer streaming access.
A web radio show titled "Slow Loop Radio Loop" features the main cast and delivers behind-the-scenes fun and fishing tips.
Characters from Slow Loop also appeared in the mobile game Kirara Fantasia from March 2022.
The anime was produced by CONNECT studio under the direction of Noriyoshi Akitaya, with series composition by Yuka Yamada and music by Takuro Iga.
Character design was handled by Shoko Takimoto, ensuring the visual charm matched the manga’s gentle aesthetics.
CONSORTIUM, Houbunsha, Flying Dog, AT-X, and Kadokawa Media House formed the production committee.
Authentic fishing motion and outdoor details were supervised and animated with attention to those familiar with real-world techniques.
The opening, "Yajirushi→," performed by the duo Pokapoka Ion (Nao Toyama and Kiyono Yasuno), sets a warm, upbeat tone.
The ending, "Shuwashuwa," is sung by the main voice actresses under the group name Three∞Loop, capturing the series’ calm and friendly energy.
Special episode endings, like "Yuruyurariru," further tailor the vibe of important story moments.
Slow Loop is praised for its heartfelt storylines, relatable family struggles, and gentle humor.
Its careful depiction of fishing as both a sport and a vehicle for connection stands out even among other outdoor-themed anime and manga.
The anime contributed to local tourism in Yokosuka, inspiring special collaboration events, limited edition merchandise, and themed experiences on railways and businesses.
Fans cite its unique blend of "healing" slice-of-life drama and nuanced character growth as reasons for its strong following.
The series collaborated with other popular Kirara works like Bocchi the Rock!, resulting in fun crossover cameos.
Yokosuka’s tourism association and local high schools have produced featured goods and promoted Slow Loop in the city.
A special mascot, Sea-nyan, enjoys popularity in both the show’s world and real-life merchandise.
*Official anime website: (https://slowlooptv.com/)
*Official Twitter: @slowloop_tv
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