I grew up in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado, spending countless hours fishing the local water. I picked up a Hobie Sport in 2007, becoming one of the first to be fishing off a Hobie kayak in New Mexico. My primary fishing target has always been Rio Grande Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout with Pike being a close third. Fast forward to 2013, and I was lucky enough to be invited to join the Hobie fishing team. Working alongside Russ from Zia Kayaks, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with him to introduce and popularize Hobie kayaks and kayak fishing in New Mexico. I have been actively involved in both Zia Kayaks/Hobie events such as the annual tournament and kayak demos. I’ve also had the privilege of being part of local events organized by NM State Parks, even in the absence of Zia Kayaks. Witnessing the excitement on people’s faces as they experience it for themselves has been truly rewarding.