Bitterroot Retreat And Adventures

Category: Announcements

  • Lightweight Fly Shop | Thank You for an Incredible First Year

    Lightweight Fly Shop | Thank You for an Incredible First Year

    Thank You for an Amazing First Year

    When we opened the doors to Lightweight Fly Shop, we had one goal: build a space where fly fishing felt personal, helpful, and real.

    We didn’t know how many folks would walk through. But you showed up. You brought us your questions, your stories, your fish pics, your gear dreams, and your support.

    And because of that…
    We’re still here.
    We’re still growing.
    And we’re just getting started.

    What We’re Grateful For in 2025

    This year we:

    • Launched our first fly shop (!)
    • Stocked shelves with gear we love and trust
    • Welcomed brands like St. Croix, Bajío, Bozeman Flyworks, and Tornado Anchors
    • Partnered with artists like Jodi Monahan and Casey Underwood to bring something soulful into the shop
    • Watched new anglers take their first casts
    • Shared laughs, learning, coffee, and fish stories with this awesome community

    Every single sale, conversation, and moment this year helped build something special.

    This Holiday Season… We’re Just Feeling Grateful

    Thank you for:

    • Shopping small
    • Supporting local
    • Recommending us to your friends
    • Being patient as we figured out the quirks of first-year business life
    • Reminding us that fly fishing is still full of wonder, connection, and joy

    Need a Few Last-Minute Gift Ideas?

    🎣 Fly boxes, fly shop gear, and curated flies
    🎁 Gift cards for the angler who has everything
    🎨 Original art they won’t find anywhere else
    🧢 Hats, stickers & small stocking stuffers

    From Our Family to Yours

    If we haven’t said it enough: thank you for making our first year not only possible—but truly unforgettable.

    We can’t wait to keep growing, learning, and fishing alongside you in 2026.

    Until then—happy holidays, tight lines, and heartfelt thanks from all of us here at Lightweight Fly Shop.

  • Lightweight Fly Shop – A New Fly Fishing Store in Stevensville, Montana, Honoring a Fearless Spirit

    Lightweight Fly Shop – A New Fly Fishing Store in Stevensville, Montana, Honoring a Fearless Spirit

    Introducing Lightweight Fly Shop: A Tribute to Johnny Bizilia

    Montana’s rivers are wild, untamed, and full of adventure—just like our friend Jonathan “Johnny” Bizilia. This March, we’re opening Lightweight Fly Shop in Stevensville, Montana, not just as a fly fishing store, but as a living tribute to Johnny, a man who embraced every moment with passion and fearlessness.

    At just 27, Johnny was a skydiver, BASE jumper, and rock climber who pushed life to its limits. He was also a great friend, a brother in adventure, and someone who inspired everyone around him. Though he didn’t fish in Montana, he enjoyed casting a line with friends whenever he could. His energy, enthusiasm, and fearless approach to life are what inspired the name Lightweight Fly Shop—a phrase he yelled before every BASE jump, embodying the thrill of the unknown.

    This shop is more than just gear and tackle. It’s about community, adventure, and honoring Johnny’s legacy in a way that brings people together.

    What to Expect at Lightweight Fly Shop

    Located in Stevensville, Montana, Lightweight Fly Shop is dedicated to offering top-quality fly fishing gear while supporting local and national brands. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with:

    ✅ Locally Sourced Gear – We’re working with Montana-based suppliers to bring you handcrafted flies, rods, and accessories made by expert anglers.
    ✅ Top National Brands – We’re stocking gear from the best fly fishing brands across the U.S. to ensure you have everything you need on the water.
    ✅ Expert Advice & Community Support – Our shop is a place for anglers to connect, swap stories, and get expert recommendations on gear and fishing spots.
    ✅ A Tribute to Adventure – Every purchase, every story shared in our shop, and every trip to the river keeps Johnny’s fearless spirit alive.

    Why “Lightweight”? The Story Behind the Name

    If you knew Jonathan “Johnny” Bizilia, you knew his energy was contagious. As a skydiving instructor and passionate adventurer, he approached life head-on, embracing the unknown with open arms. Every time he leaped from a plane or soared off a cliff in his wingsuit, he’d yell:

    “LIGHTWEIGHT!”

    It wasn’t just a word—it was a philosophy. To Johnny, it meant letting go of fear, embracing the moment, and living life to the fullest. That’s the spirit we’re bringing to Lightweight Fly Shop—because fishing, like adventure, is about more than just the catch. It’s about freedom, connection, and the stories we create along the way.

    Grand Opening: Mid-March 2025

    🎣 Join us for our grand opening in March 2025! We’ll be celebrating with:

    ✅ Exclusive opening day discounts
    ✅ A first look at our premium fly fishing gear
    ✅ Community events & giveaways

    Follow us on social media for updates and the official grand opening date!

    More Than a Fly Shop – A Lasting Legacy

    Lightweight Fly Shop isn’t just about fishing—it’s about honoring a friend, a brother, and an inspiration. Johnny lived for adventure, and while he may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on in every new journey we take.

    So whether you’re here for fly fishing gear in Montana, looking to share stories, or just want to be part of something special, you’re always welcome here.

    We can’t wait to see you in Stevensville. Here’s to Johnny. Here’s to adventure. Here’s to Lightweight!

  • “Cast, Reel, Relax: Newly Remodeled Cabins Open for Fly Fishing Adventures!”

    “Cast, Reel, Relax: Newly Remodeled Cabins Open for Fly Fishing Adventures!”

    Exciting news for all fly fishing enthusiasts! After a complete remodel, our guest cabins are now open for business, offering the perfect retreat for your next fly fishing getaway. We’re thrilled to welcome you to our two newly renovated cabins, each designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer retreat, our cabins provide a cozy, modern base for your adventures.

    Not only do you get a relaxing place to stay, but you’ll also have access to our onsite fly fishing shop, stocked with all the gear and expertise you need. Located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Bitterroot River, our property offers unparalleled access to prime fly fishing spots right at your doorstep. Imagine waking up, grabbing your gear, and stepping straight into some of the best fly fishing waters around—all without the hassle of a long drive!

    So pack your rods and reels, and come experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Our cabins are ready to provide you with a memorable escape, filled with great fishing, stunning natural scenery, and a welcoming community of fellow fly fishing lovers. Book your stay today and get ready to cast your line into a new chapter of relaxation and excitement!

  • Meet Otto: The Cow Who Traded the Nevada Desert for Montana Meadows

    Meet Otto: The Cow Who Traded the Nevada Desert for Montana Meadows

    Today, we’re excited to share the heartwarming story of Otto—a gentle cow with a journey as unique as it is inspiring. Once orphaned in the harsh, sunbaked deserts of Nevada, Otto’s early days were filled with challenges. But fate had something special in store for him. Rescued and brought to our property in Montana, he quickly found solace and a new beginning in our expansive, green pasture.

    Now, Otto is living his best life under the wide Montana sky. He spends his days grazing peacefully, enjoying the crisp mountain air, and soaking up the serene beauty of his new home. It’s amazing to see how quickly he adapted, forming bonds with his new friends and proving that even the toughest starts can lead to a life filled with comfort and joy.

    Otto’s journey is a powerful reminder that every creature deserves a chance to thrive. His story—from the unforgiving Nevada desert to the welcoming embrace of Montana—embodies resilience, hope, and the magic of second chances. We’re incredibly proud to have him as part of our family and look forward to sharing more of his adventures in the days to come.

  • Hook, Line, and Construction: Our New Fly Shop is Coming Soon!

    Hook, Line, and Construction: Our New Fly Shop is Coming Soon!

    We’re excited to share that our brand-new fly shop is currently under construction—and we can’t wait for you to see it! Designed with fly fishing enthusiasts in mind, our upcoming shop will soon be your one-stop destination for all things fly fishing. Whether you’re looking for the latest gear, expert advice, or just a friendly chat about the best local spots, our team is working hard to build a space that caters to both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.

    While the shop is taking shape, we invite you to follow along on our progress. We’ll be sharing sneak peeks of the design, updates on the gear and services we plan to offer, and plenty of behind-the-scenes moments as we transform our vision into reality. Get ready to discover a place where quality equipment meets a passion for fly fishing, all right here in our community. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to gear up for your next adventure!