RIGS was the first Tenkara USA dealer and Tenkara USA Certified Guide Service in Colorado. Our tenkara guides specialize in fishing the high country waters in southwestern Colorado.
“Our interest in tenkara was immediate. We saw the tenkara approach as an amazing tool for our regional waters. Our location, populated with a plethora of high mountain streams and headwaters, made a perfect fit for the tenkara method. Tenkara enables you to approach fly fishing a river or stream in a more connected and intuitive way by simplifying the process, allowing you to get closer to your target and hone your tactical presentation. It’s design also allows for more freedom with its lightweight, portable and compact nature – perfect for the angler who backpacks, hikes, mountain bikes or climbs. We focus our guiding on full day high country waters, multiday backpacking trips and half day instructional clinics.”

Tim Patterson (Owner)
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Years Guiding: 25

Patterson has led fly fishing, rafting, and eco-tours throughout Central America, Mexico, and the Southwestern U.S. since 1991. Patterson’s degree in Recreation Management from Prescott College set the stage for a career in adventure guiding and a passion for keeping tight lines on his home waters. “It’s not just about the fishing, it’s about the people,” Patterson says. “Our activities are kind of a metaphor for life. They can teach patience, strategy, versatility, and adapting to conditions.” Tim guiding clients in Tenkara since 2010 and truly enjoys its simplified approach to fly fishing.

MK Hooley-Underwood (Fly Shop/Fly Fishing Guide)
Hometown: Montrose, CO
Years Guiding: 2

MK is a Montrose native, and has been fly fishing the surrounding rivers and streams her whole life. After attending college in Fort Collins, CO, MK recently returned to the area and the waters she calls home. She loves spending time on the water in any capacity, but fly fishing and sharing the beauty of the area she grew up in gives her the most joy. MK loves the elegant, simplicity of Tenkara and truly enjoys guiding and using Tenkara on her own.