On my way to work on the commuter (Trek Lane with Tektro Oryz 992A cantilever brakes), I came millimeters away from hitting a deer that darted in front of me. The stopping power on the cantilever brakes just isn’t adequate. Going down some hills it can feel like I’m not going to be able to stop at all. I’ve tried everything with these brakes: shorter pads, lots of toe-in, better cable housing… nothing seems to work. I’m thinking of switching to V-brakes with Travel Agents so I can keep my STI brifters. Has anyone here used Travel Agents? If so, what’s your experience with them been? I like this bike a great deal and don't want to give it up. I know I could use direct pull levers, but want to keep brifters on it instead. Any insights would be appreciated.

rather a fussy piece, but they do work ..

Consider something like Paul's Mini Moto.. a shorter arm V brake (made in California),
for cyclo cross and road Brifter users. by making the arms shorter ,
they match the higher MA in the short cable pull aero brake lever.

I have different cantilevers than yours, old Mafac bought new in 1976 ,
After all that time I am still OK with them .

Do you think the Mini Motos will clear mudguards?