About TFO
Temple Fork Outfitters, commonly abbreviated TFO, is a Texas-based rod company founded by Rick Pope and associated early on with accessible fly rods designed with input from experienced anglers. The brand began with fly fishing but now covers both fly and conventional rods, including freshwater, bass, inshore, surf, offshore, salmon/steelhead, trout, panfish, and travel applications. Its catalog also includes fly reels, rod-and-reel kits, cases, parts, and accessories.
TFO is based in Grand Prairie, Texas and operates as a privately held, independent rod brand. Its reputation centers on offering technique-appropriate rods at moderate prices, with design input from well-known anglers such as Lefty Kreh, Gary Loomis, Blane Chocklett, and other specialists. Manufacturing varies by series, with TFO emphasizing control of design, factory production, quality testing, warranty support, and practical components rather than heavy marketing language. Recent lines also include U.S.-built rods such as Blue Bight, Centra Bass, and Pastime Trout-Panfish.
What TFO is known for
Temple Fork Outfitters is known for value-focused fly rods and conventional rods designed around real fishing use rather than luxury positioning. Fly anglers often associate TFO with accessible, guide-friendly rods, Lefty Kreh-influenced designs, and broad freshwater-to-saltwater coverage. Conventional anglers know the brand for practical inshore, bass, trout-panfish, walleye, and surf rods that balance sensitivity, durability, and warranty support. TFO’s niche is especially strong for anglers who want dependable rods with thoughtful actions and recognizable designer input without paying top-tier boutique prices.