Meet Casey (the owner and lead design artist) and Kevin (the main R&D designer, and everyday tenkara enthusiast that just so happens to be in charge of produce procurement) Canfield. Together, they are the couple that run Rocky MTN Tenkara from their spacious, spare bedroom closet in Albuquerque, New Mexico!
While the company wasn’t started by them, Casey purchased the company after seeing an ad on Facebook Marketplace for the sale of the company and its inventory. With Kevin retiring from the fire department, Casey thought to herself “why the heck not?” adding “I am not a spontaneous person, but instantly I knew I wanted to buy it. What better way to transition from a stressful chapter in life than to buy a small business?”
After learning a little about their purchase of Rocky MTN Tenkara, we were curious what originally got Casey and Kevin into tenkara. Casey goes on to tell us “Tenkara holds a special spot in our hearts, when COVID hit we were searching for a family activity that was away from everyone but also could teach our girls to enjoy the outside world. Both of us fly-fished before tenkara but trying to get any type of guidance or input during that time was nearly impossible. The retail price of outdoor equipment skyrocketed during the pandemic, so we searched for something that wouldn’t break the bank.” She goes on to talk about how they were looking for simple, fun ways to enjoy the outdoors, which led them to discovering tenkara. “This was a turning point for our family and reinforced our views on conservation and the way we treat our environment.” says Casey.
Tenkara was becoming something that the Canfields could enjoy with their daughters. Casey shared a little about their experiences in getting their kids out fishing. When we asked if their daughters enjoy fishing, she answered with “The short answer is yes but the long answer is that we try hard to make it less about fishing and more about them having fun. We have learned as parents that the attention span of a six and ten-year-old can sometimes be short, and they have not yet caught on to the tranquility of fishing. Our days require lots of encouragement, no expectations, and perfectly happy kiddos that end the day muddy and wet. Even if you get skunked you still had the best day ever! Remember kids don’t care about the size of the fish or how many in the net but they do remember the time dad fell in the river retrieving a 2-dollar fly (and the snacks you pack).”
As far as where the Canfields like to spend their time fishing, they mention their love of the San Juan River, but that came after they emphasized their love and appreciation for the small, remote streams tucked away in the mountains. “These streams hold a ton of non-native brown trout and Rio Grande Chubs, which can be a fun catch for the kids. The chubs are plentiful, not picky and are small enough for our tiniest angler. The remote areas hold a plethora of beautiful non-native German browns. The browns have taken over, but the cutthroat trout is slowly being reintroduced.”
Knowing the waters they liked to fish, we also wanted to know if they had a favorite season to get out and put some fish in the net! To our question, Casey replied “Yes, here in New Mexico we have green chile roasting season which usually starts at the end of August spanning the fall months, encompassing Balloon Fiesta, ending when the temperatures start dipping around November. Once the fragrant scent of roasting green chile awakens our senses, every New Mexican knows the transition from summer to fall is upon us – a cherished tradition. This time of the season brings cooler mornings, with the warmth gradually returning by noon, as the sun continues to cast its lingering summer rays, making it perfect for the angler to get to the stream or river around 7am, leaving only when the sun gets too hot. The hoppers are plentiful and the trout love smashing these guys.”
Of course, we wanted to know what their favorite rods from their lineup are, as well as what the most popular one is. Casey says that the “Chico” is hands down their best-selling rod, adding “This rod has truly set us apart as a unique company, known for making a stiff rod capable of handling overgrown, tight areas that hold large trout. I’ve personally tested it to the limit for nearly a year, and I can confidently say it effortlessly catches 20+ inch brown trout on a hopper fly in dense, overgrown terrain, even on uneven ground.” It seems the “Chico” is also Kevin’s favorite rod from the lineup - “The colors reflect the Jemez mountains in the fall and I love using it for blue lining.” Casey had a tough time choosing a favorite, saying “I really love the look and name of the Chupacabra but I also love bow and arrow casting with the Chico.”
One thing that we wanted to note about the shop on their website, is that they have expanded their offerings since purchasing the company. Since then, they have added plenty of flies, gear, accessories, and apparel to their listings.
Another thing that we wanted to note is their involvement in the angling community and events in their area. They have volunteered at tenkara clinics hosted by the Rangers of the Valles Caldera. Casey mentions, “It was a privilege to be part of this experience. A big shout-out to the Valles Caldera National Park Rangers - You’re some of the kindest and hardest-working people I’ve ever met!”
Casey has also joined the New Mexico Lady Anglers, adding “The group is made up of individuals from all walks of life, each with unique backgrounds and experiences, but we all share a passion for fishing. Our meetups are not only fun and social, but also incredibly informative, with members sharing tips, techniques, and stories. This year, they’ve planned some amazing fishing trips.”
It was great to get to know Casey and Kevin a bit more, and learn about their ambitions and accomplishments since purchasing Rocky MTN Tenkara. They have taken the company to new levels, and it’s been amazing to watch its growth!
If you haven't already, be sure to head over to their website to see their rod lineup and all they have to offer!
For our readers, the Canfields were kind enough to offer a discount code!
Use "HeritageTenkara15%" for 15% off your purchase from Rocky MTN Tenkara!
I love these two people. Real genuine enthusiast and deliver the small business five everyone dreams of. Wish absolutely nothing but the best for them and I love my Chico!
-Skiddy
Awesome story! Can't wait to see what the future holds for them.