This will be the very first Tenkara Campout hosted by Rocky MTN Tenkara here in New Mexico, and we’d love to extend our backyard to any angler willing to make the trip. The campout will take place about 15 miles outside of Taos, surrounded by some of the best small-stream fishing in the region.
We chose this campground because it can comfortably accommodate up to 100 people and 30 vehicles, with outhouse facilities available on site. Its location also offers the convenience of being close to Taos, so if dry camping with the group isn’t quite your style, there are plenty of nearby lodging options.
The event will begin on Friday, July 24th, and run through Monday, July 27th, when we’ll wrap up with final cleanup and check-out. This is a free event (donations welcome) for anyone willing to make the trek to New Mexico and help us kick off our first Rocky MTN Tenkara campout.
This will be a “choose your own adventure” style Tenkara trip, with access to countless blue line streams as well as larger waters like the Rio Grande Box perfect for anglers looking for anything from an easy day on the water to a more adventurous hike in experience.
We’ll also be providing downloadable maps on our website, along with local fishing information to help you explore the area and make the most of your time in Northern New Mexico.
We’d also like to gather in the evenings after a full day on the water to talk shop, share stories, and swap a few after-action reports with fellow anglers.
The 12th Annual Owens River Clean Up is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM at Pleasant Valley Campground, Bishop CA
Early morning at Pleasant Valley Campground—volunteers gathering at the day-use area, sharing a warm cup of coffee before heading out. Coffee and donuts provided. 🌿☕
At the end of the Owens River Clean Up, Chris Leonard stood by the dumpster—about three-quarters full of trash collected by the volunteers—and declared it a victory. It wasn’t just about how much was removed, but what it represented: a community coming together, giving their time and effort to care for the river. A big thank you to Chris and all the volunteers for keeping the river clean for all of us to enjoy fishing.
Around 11:30 AM, volunteers gather for lunch and raffles—a well-earned break after the morning’s work.
There’s always something for everyone—no one goes home empty-handed.
The Trout Unlimited (TU) table, one of many sponsors present at the event, supporting the effort to keep the river clean and the community strong.
Hooray! Chris Leonard by the dumpster, filled by the efforts of the volunteers. A great day of giving back to the river.
This immersive two-day event brings together renowned Tenkara instructors from across the country. They will offer intensive seminars, hands-on workshops, and expert-led sessions. All activities are designed to elevate your skills and deepen your connection to the craft.
Saturday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
A full day of presentations and workshops with:
Frank Burr, Amanda Hoffner, Martin Montejano, Chris Leonard, Thomas Paulson, Fred Rowe, and Luong Tam
Covering Tenkara techniques, rod design, local waters, and more.
Sunday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
On-the-water session focused on casting, fly presentation, and practical fishing techniques using a Tenkara rod.
Connect with a vibrant community of anglers. These range from curious beginners to seasoned pros. They travel from across the country to share knowledge, stories, and a passion for Tenkara.
👉 Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend of learning, fishing, and community in the beautiful Eastern Sierra!
Enjoy included lunches, learn from top-tier presenters, and forge friendships with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of the Eastern Sierra. Whether you’re mastering precision casting or discovering tenkara’s minimalist charm, this event is your gateway to growth, camaraderie, and adventure.
I’m excited to share that Tenkara Bug Out is back this year.
As the first tenkara campout in the western United States, the Bug Out holds a special place in our community. Founded in 2017 by Jim Vandagrift, it was created as a gathering where anglers could come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the simple joy of fishing with tenkara.
After COVID and the fires in Oregon, the event was put on hold for a time. That is why its return feels especially meaningful. The Bug Out is not only coming back—it returns to a tenkara community that has continued to grow stronger, closer, and more connected over the years.
I’m also very happy that Amanda Hoffner, Tanuki Ambassador, known on social media as Lady TenkaraBum, is now working alongside Jim to help organize the event. After moving from South Carolina to Oregon, Amanda became part of the team helping bring the Bug Out back, and I’m grateful to join them as well in helping host the boot camp.
“This year we’re heading to La Pine, OR, putting us within reach of some world-class water: the Fall River, the Deschutes River, the Crooked River, and the Metolius River. If you like big fish energy, several of these rivers hold 20in + fish, with some tipping the scales into double digits. And if fishing smaller, more intimate settings is your vibe, we’ve got you covered there too.” Jim Vandagrift. For ongoing updates and community discussion, follow Tenkara Bug Out on Facebook.
Schedule Overview
(A detailed schedule will be provided as we get closer to the event.)
Friday 6/26/26 — Hit the rivers on your own. That evening, gather around the community campfire to connect, swap stories, and share ideas. Maps with river locations and access points will be provided ahead of the event.
Saturday 6/27/26 — Tanuki Tenkara Boot Camp takes over with presentations and hands-on learning throughout the day. We’ll close out the night around the campfire together.
Sunday 6/28/26 — Learning Stations and then back on the rivers, fishing on your own. Maps and access points provided ahead of the event.
Event Costs
Entry: $75 per person for the event +boot camp
If you would like to join us at our group campsite the package total for camping and the event will be $110 for the weekend (up to 3 nights — Thursday, Friday & Saturday). These open and large campsites will be shared between all those who attend.
Expect incredible door prizes from our sponsors and a raffle supporting local conservation efforts..
I’m truly looking forward to being part of it and seeing the Bug Out return. a weekend of fishing, learning, and community built around the art of traditional Japanese tenkara.
This year we’re heading to La Pine, OR, putting us within reach of some world-class water: the Fall River, the Deschutes River, the Crooked River, and the Metolius River.
If you like big fish energy, several of these rivers hold 20″+ fish, with some tipping the scales into double digits. And if fishing smaller, more intimate settings is your vibe, we’ve got you covered there too.
Expect incredible door prizes from our sponsors and a raffle supporting local conservation efforts.
Schedule Overview
(A detailed schedule will be provided as we get closer to the event.)
Friday 6/26/26 — Hit the rivers on your own. That evening, gather around the community campfire to connect, swap stories, and share ideas. Maps with river locations and access points will be provided ahead of the event.
Saturday 6/27/26 — Tanuki Tenkara Boot Camp takes over with presentations and hands-on learning throughout the day. We’ll close out the night around the campfire together.
Sunday 6/28/26 — Learning Stations and then back on the rivers, fishing on your own. Maps and access points provided ahead of the event.
Event Costs
Entry: $75 per person for the event
If you would like to join us at our group campsite the package total for camping and the event will be $110 for the weekend (up to 3 nights — Thursday, Friday & Saturday). These open and large campsites will be shared between all those who attend.
