In the world of manga, the silent struggle behind the panels often goes unnoticed, yet it profoundly shapes the narratives we cherish. Sometimes, the most heartwarming stories emerge not just from the pages, but from the resilience of their creators. Such is the case with Maiko Uchino’s beloved slice-of-life fishing manga, Slow Loop, which has recently announced its highly anticipated return to serialization.
After a period of understandable concern and a temporary hiatus, fans can rejoice as Slow Loop is set to continue its charming tale of Hiyori, Koharu, and their shared passion for fly fishing. This resumption not only marks a welcome return for the series but also signals a significant transition in its publication platform, moving to a new digital home.
The Return of Slow Loop: A Testament to Resilience
The announcement that Slow Loop is resuming serialization has been met with widespread relief and excitement among its dedicated fanbase. The manga went on hiatus from Chapter 77 onwards in February 2025, a decision made to allow its creator, Maiko Uchino, to focus on her health. Uchino bravely revealed that she had undergone breast cancer removal surgery in January 2025 and would be commencing medication-based treatment. Her decision to openly share her diagnosis aimed to raise awareness about the importance of regular health check-ups, urging both her readers and fellow creators to prioritize their well-being.
The return of Slow Loop is a testament to Uchino-sensei’s strength and determination. Her personal statement expressed apologies for the two consecutive months of hiatus, explaining that potential side effects of her treatment could affect a stable serialization schedule. This transparency fostered immense support from the community, eager for her recovery and the manga’s continuation.
Transition to COMIC FUZ and New Release Schedule
A key development accompanying the resumption of Slow Loop is its migration from its long-standing home in Houbunsha’s Manga Time Kirara Forward magazine to the publisher’s digital platform, COMIC FUZ. This strategic move was made to accommodate Uchino-sensei’s treatment and potential side effects, ensuring a more flexible and stable environment for her to continue her work.
While specific future chapter release dates will be announced later through Manga Time Kirara Forward and COMIC FUZ, this transition highlights a growing trend in the manga industry towards digital platforms offering creators more adaptable schedules. The last collected volume released was the ninth volume in May 2024, with the tenth volume scheduled for March 2025.
Understanding Slow Loop: A Gentle Dive into Fly Fishing and Family
For those new to its waters, Slow Loop is a heartwarming slice-of-life manga that masterfully blends the niche world of recreational fly fishing with the universal themes of family, connection, and healing. The series debuted in Manga Time Kirara Forward in September 2018 and has since garnered a loyal following, leading to a popular anime adaptation that premiered in January 2022.
Key Themes and Appeal
At its core, Slow Loop centers on Hiyori Yamakawa, a high school girl who finds solace and connection through fly fishing, a hobby she inherited from her late father. Her life takes a significant turn when her mother remarries, introducing her to a new stepsister, Koharu Minagi—an energetic and cheerful girl who loves to cook.
The manga beautifully portrays the budding sisterhood between Hiyori and Koharu as they navigate their new family dynamics and bond over their shared experiences with fishing. The series is renowned for its calming atmosphere, detailed depiction of fly fishing techniques, and the genuine, wholesome interactions between its characters. It provides a gentle escape, teaching readers about the intricacies of fishing while exploring the emotional depths of building new familial ties and processing grief. The narrative emphasizes patience, observation, and the quiet joys found in nature and companionship.
The Impact on Fans and the Future of the Series
The hiatus of Slow Loop was a poignant reminder of the human element behind beloved creative works. Fans demonstrated immense empathy and support for Maiko Uchino’s health, proving that the bond between creators and their audience often extends beyond mere consumption of content. Online communities across platforms like Reddit expressed overwhelming support, wishing Uchino a swift and full recovery.
Anticipation and Community Reaction
The news of Slow Loop‘s resumption has ignited a renewed sense of anticipation within the manga community. Forums and social media are buzzing with excitement about new chapters and the continuation of Hiyori and Koharu’s journey. This move to COMIC FUZ might also introduce Slow Loop to a broader digital audience, potentially expanding its reach and fostering new readership.
The future of Slow Loop looks bright, not just as a continuation of a beloved story, but as a symbol of the creator’s perseverance. As Maiko Uchino continues her treatment, the flexible digital format of COMIC FUZ should allow her to maintain a sustainable pace, ensuring the longevity and quality of the series. Fans eagerly await the opportunity to once again cast their lines into the tranquil world of Slow Loop, reeling in new stories and continuing to celebrate the gentle rhythms of life, family, and fishing.
