Category: Our Brands

  • Jodi Monahan Art at Lightweight Fly Shop: Original Oil Paintings Inspired by the Water

    Jodi Monahan Art at Lightweight Fly Shop: Original Oil Paintings Inspired by the Water

    Some art just stops you in your tracks. Jodi Monahan’s original oil paintings don’t just show fish, rivers, or landscapes—they capture the soul of fly fishing. At Lightweight Fly Shop, we’re honored to carry her one-of-a-kind oil paintings—each piece hand-painted, inspired by nature, and infused with emotion. These aren’t prints. They’re originals. And they belong in spaces where the love for water runs deep.

    Who Is Jodi Monahan?

    Jodi Monahan is an artist rooted in the rhythms of nature. Her pieces explore the beauty of trout, rivers, wildlife, and the deep calm of the outdoors.

    Each brushstroke reflects time spent on the water. Every canvas tells a quiet story—of still mornings, golden hours, and that peaceful hum that comes when everything just clicks.

    She paints from outdoor experiences, using texture, light, and color to evoke that unmistakable feeling anglers know so well: this is exactly where I want to be.


    Why We Carry Her Original Paintings at Lightweight Fly Shop

    There’s something powerful about an original.

    When you pick up one of Jodi’s paintings, you’re not just buying decor—you’re taking home a singular moment captured in oil. No two pieces are alike, and once it’s gone, it’s truly gone.

    We carry Jodi’s work because:

    • It reflects the beauty and emotion behind every cast
    • It supports a passionate, local artist with deep ties to the fly fishing lifestyle
    • It adds a layer of authenticity and soul to the shop
    • And frankly—it’s just stunning to look at

    Originals You’ll Find In Our Shop

    We rotate our collection regularly, but here are the kinds of original pieces you might find on our walls:

    1. Trout Portraits

    Up-close, textured, and detailed renderings of trout species in motion. Browns, rainbows, and cutthroats with their unique color palettes come to life in oil.

    2. River Landscapes

    From quiet bends to rushing riffles, these paintings bring the outdoors inside—with a softness that invites you to pause and breathe.

    3. Moment-Captured Pieces

    Sometimes it’s a casting silhouette, sometimes a rise in still water—these originals freeze those fleeting moments we often remember long after the fish is gone.

    No prints. No reproductions. Just the real thing, created by hand and ready to hang in a space that appreciates it.


    How Anglers Are Displaying Jodi’s Work

    Looking for ideas on where these paintings really shine?

    • Cabins & lodges – A natural fit for rustic walls and cozy corners
    • Fly tying benches – Inspiration right where creativity happens
    • Home offices – A daily reminder of what really matters
    • Gifts – For guides, partners, or anglers who already have everything

    Each painting is a true original—signed by the artist and steeped in meaning.


    FAQs About Jodi Monahan’s Original Oil Paintings

    Q: Are these pieces framed?
    Some come framed, others are stretched canvas ready to hang or frame to your taste. Details available in-store.

    Q: Do you sell prints or digital copies?
    Nope. We only offer original, one-of-a-kind oil paintings by Jodi Monahan.

    Q: Can I reserve or commission a piece?
    We sell originals first-come, first-served. For commissions, let us know—we’ll check availability directly with Jodi.

    Q: How often do new paintings come in?
    We bring in new work seasonally or when Jodi completes a new series. Each piece is unique, so check back often!


    Final Thoughts: Real Art for People Who Love the Real Outdoors

    There’s something irreplaceable about an original oil painting. The texture. The brushstrokes. The sense that someone poured their heart into it.

    Jodi Monahan’s work embodies what we love about fly fishing—the quiet, the color, the connection. We’re honored to hang her pieces on our walls and help them find good homes with people who truly appreciate wild places and wild things.

    Stop by Lightweight Fly Shop to see her latest work in person. But don’t wait too long—each piece is one of one, and when it’s gone, it’s gone.

  • Oros Strike Indicators at Lightweight Fly Shop: Simpler Rigs, Cleaner Drifts, More Fish

    Oros Strike Indicators at Lightweight Fly Shop: Simpler Rigs, Cleaner Drifts, More Fish

    Strike indicators have been around forever, but Oros took the old-school bobber and gave it a serious upgrade. With their smooth, spherical design and ultra-simple threading system, Oros Strike Indicators are a go-to for any angler who wants fewer tangles, better drifts, and more fish in the net. At Lightweight Fly Shop, we keep ’em stocked because once you try one, there’s no going back.


    What Makes Oros Strike Indicators So Different?

    Let’s face it—most strike indicators are either a pain to rig, throw your cast out of balance, or just don’t stay put. Oros changed the game with a design that’s ridiculously easy to use and surprisingly stealthy.

    Here’s what makes them stand out:

    • No exposed hardware – Everything is tucked neatly inside the indicator. No awkward nubs or metal stems.
    • Perfectly spherical – Yup, no weird shapes or drag. They float like a dream and cast smooth.
    • Simple twist-on system – Just unscrew, place your leader between the halves, and twist shut. Done.
    • No pinched lines – The indicator sandwiches your line gently without kinking it.
    • Eco-friendlier foam – Oros indicators are made with biodegradable foam. Win-win.

    It’s that combo of smart design, less tangling, and better drifts that has anglers switching over in droves.


    Why We Carry Oros at Lightweight Fly Shop

    We’re not ones to fill our shelves with gimmicks. If it’s in the shop, it works. Period.

    We brought in Oros Strike Indicators because:

    • They rig faster than anything we’ve tried
    • They don’t tangle up like traditional indicators
    • They’re easier to cast than big foamies or thingamabobbers
    • And… they actually stay where you put them on the leader

    It’s one of those small upgrades that makes a big difference in your day on the water. Whether you’re tight-lining a deep pool or floating a double-nymph rig on a long drift, Oros just does the job better.


    How to Rig an Oros Strike Indicator (It’s Easy, Promise)

    If you can open a jar of peanut butter, you can rig an Oros. Here’s the breakdown:

    1. Unscrew the two halves of the indicator
    2. Lay your leader or tippet inside the notch on the bottom half
    3. Screw the top half back on, aligning the notch with the line
    4. Adjust up or down as needed by loosening and sliding

    No knots. No hardware. No headaches. And when you’re done? Just unscrew and stash it in your pack.


    Best Times to Use an Oros Indicator

    Oros works in almost any nymphing scenario, but here are some sweet spots where they really shine:

    • Deep runs with strong current – They’re buoyant and stable in heavy water
    • Long technical drifts – Less drag means better presentation
    • Cold days when fingers don’t work – They’re super easy to rig, even with gloves
    • Teaching beginners – Easy to see, easy to adjust, and confidence-building

    They’re also killer for dry-dropper setups when you need a floating indicator that doubles as a dry.


    Pro Tips from the Lightweight Crew

    🎯 Match the size to your rig – Bigger indicators for heavier flies or weight, smaller ones for stealth
    🌈 Use different colors for different light – Bright orange pops on cloudy days, while white can be stealthier on spooky streams
    🔁 Carry a few sizes – Keep a small selection in your pack to adjust as conditions change

    FAQs About Oros Strike Indicators

    Q: Do Oros indicators float well?
    You bet. They float high and ride smooth even in rough water, thanks to their round shape and foam construction.

    Q: Will they kink or damage my line?
    Nope! That’s one of their best features. They clamp gently around your line without pinching or kinking it.

    Q: Are they reusable?
    Yes! You can take them off and use them again and again. They’re durable and built to last.

    Q: What sizes do they come in?
    Small, Medium, and Large—so you can match the size to the weight of your fly setup.

    Q: Are they made in the USA?
    Yes, Oros is proudly made in the USA and designed with both performance and sustainability in mind.


    Why Oros Strike Indicators Should Be in Every Fly Box

    They’re small, they’re affordable, and they make a huge impact on your nymphing game. Whether you’re running two flies in a deep run or teaching a kid how to read a drift, Oros takes the frustration out of strike detection.

    We love ’em at Lightweight Fly Shop because they work. Simple as that. And we think once you try one, you’ll wonder how you ever fished without it.

    🎣 Swing by the shop or grab a few online—Oros Strike Indicators might be the smartest $10 you spend this season.

  • Bajío Sunglasses at Lightweight Fly Shop: Polarized Performance with a Purpose

    Bajío Sunglasses at Lightweight Fly Shop: Polarized Performance with a Purpose

    Whether you’re stalking trout in the Rockies or scanning the flats for tailing reds, seeing clearly matters. Enter Bajío Sunglasses—a brand built by anglers, for anglers. With razor-sharp polarized lenses and a serious commitment to sustainability, Bajío helps you see fish better and fish longer. At Lightweight Fly Shop, we love their clarity, comfort, and clean environmental mission. These aren’t just shades—they’re tools of the trade.

    The Bajío Backstory: Born on the Water, Built for the Future

    “Bajío” (pronounced bah-hee-oh) means “shallows” in Spanish—and that name says it all. The brand was founded by a passionate group of guides, anglers, and visionaries who left the corporate world to make sunglasses that serve both people and the planet.

    Their team? Stacked with ex-Costa execs and legit fish fanatics.
    Their mission? Simple: Build next-level polarized lenses that enhance your vision and reduce your impact on the world’s oceans and rivers.

    Bajío isn’t just selling sunglasses—they’re advocating for healthier water systems, clean manufacturing, and the kind of gear that lasts.

    Why We Carry Bajío Sunglasses at Lightweight Fly Shop

    At Lightweight Fly Shop, we choose brands that match our values: passion, performance, and purpose. Bajío delivers all three in spades:

    • Top-tier optics: Their lenses are made with LAPIS™ technology to block more blue light and reduce eye fatigue
    • Sustainable materials: Frames made from plant-based, biodegradable materials
    • Serious fishing utility: Designed specifically for anglers—no fluff, just function
    • Support for clean water initiatives: They’re literally giving back to the fish and rivers we love

    When customers try on a pair, they can see the difference—and so can the fish.

    Best Bajío Styles We Carry

    Here are a few of our favorite Bajío frames that fly anglers are loving right now:

    🕶️ 1. Bales Beach

    A classic wrap-style frame perfect for long days on the water. Lightweight, durable, and secure even when you’re bending over to release that 20-inch cutthroat.

    🌊 2. Nato

    Sleek and modern with a wide field of vision—great for spotting rising fish or cruising tarpon in shallow water. Comes with venting to reduce fogging on humid days.

    🐟 3. Roca

    Perfect blend of coverage and comfort. Fits medium to large faces and comes with some of the most color-enhancing lenses we’ve seen.

    Each style is available with glass or polycarbonate lenses, depending on your preference for clarity vs. weight. Either way, you’re getting serious tech.

    Which Lens Color Is Right for You?

    Picking the right lens can make or break your experience on the water. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

    • Green Mirror: Killer for freshwater—think streams, lakes, and rivers.
    • Blue Mirror: Designed for bright, open water days—ideal for flats fishing or salt.
    • Copper Base: All-around option. Great contrast and clarity for mixed light.
    • Silver Mirror: Best for cloudy days or low light. A good “everyday” lens.

    If you’re not sure, swing by the shop—we’ll help you try on a few pairs and pick the best lens for your fishing style.


    FAQs: Bajío Sunglasses at Lightweight Fly Shop

    Q: Are Bajío sunglasses worth the price?
    Absolutely. They’re made with high-end optics and durable, eco-friendly materials that outperform a lot of the big brands—at a better value.

    Q: Do you carry both glass and polycarbonate lenses?
    Yep! We offer a range of lens options in both materials. Glass offers better clarity; poly is lighter and more impact-resistant.

    Q: Can I use Bajío shades off the water too?
    Of course! Their styles look great on the river and at the brewery afterward. Functional and fly.

    Q: What’s the warranty like?
    Bajío offers a solid warranty and repair program. They stand behind their product, which we love.


    Our Take: Bajío Brings Vision to Fly Fishing—Literally

    At the end of the day, great fishing is about more than just technique—it’s about seeing. Bajío helps you see better:

    • Clearer fish
    • Cleaner water
    • A bigger picture of how your gear impacts the planet

    We’re proud to offer Bajío Sunglasses at Lightweight Fly Shop because they check all the boxes: smart design, epic performance, and real heart.

    🎣 Whether you’re chasing browns in big water or hiking into a backcountry brookie stream, Bajío helps you see more, cast better, and fish longer. Come by the shop and try a few on—you’ll feel the difference the second you put them on.


  • Top Fly Fishing Brands at Lightweight Fly Shop | Gear You Can Trust

    Montana Fly Company at Lightweight Fly Shop | Premium Flies

    Wondering what makes Lightweight Fly Shop a go-to for fly fishers? It’s all about the gear. We’ve carefully curated a collection of high-quality, trusted brands—from rods and reels to art and accessories—that we know fly anglers love. Whether you’re just starting out or have a dozen fly rods under your belt, we’ve got gear from brands that deliver every single time.

    If you’re serious about flies—or just want to make your fly box a thing of beauty—Montana Fly Company (MFC) should be on your radar. Known for their innovative fly patterns, premium tying materials, and artistic flair, MFC has become a trusted go-to in the fly fishing world. At Lightweight Fly Shop, we’re proud to carry their gear because it delivers performance and personality on the water.


    🧾 What This Blog Will Cover:

    • A deep dive into Montana Fly Company’s roots and what they’re all about
    • Why Lightweight Fly Shop chooses to carry their products
    • Tips for anglers looking to step up their fly game
    • A few fun facts and frequently asked questions
    • A chill wrap-up that nudges the reader to stop by the shop or browse online


    Montana Fly Company at Lightweight Fly Shop: Flies with Soul, Gear with Purpose


    Meet Montana Fly Company: Innovation Born on the Banks of the Bitterroot

    Based in Columbia Falls, Montana, just a stone’s throw from Glacier National Park, Montana Fly Company was born out of passion for the craft. Since the late ‘90s, they’ve carved out a name for themselves with flies that combine function, beauty, and originality.

    What sets MFC apart?

    • They partner with pro-tier designers and legendary tiers
    • They’re constantly pushing fly patterns forward—think more innovation, less imitation
    • Their flies are hand-tied, with precision and care
    • And yep, their fly boxes and artwork are actually cool

    Whether you’re casting dries on a Montana freestone or swinging streamers on your local tailwater, MFC’s patterns are designed to do more than just match the hatch—they turn heads and fool fish.


    Why We Carry Montana Fly Company Gear at Lightweight Fly Shop

    We’re picky about the brands we bring into the shop—because we know you’re picky about what’s in your vest. Montana Fly Company has earned their spot on our shelves for a few solid reasons:

    • Quality that holds up in any conditions
    • Creative patterns that work, not just in the Rockies, but all over the country
    • Beautiful packaging and presentation, making them great gifts or personal upgrades
    • Support for artists and the fly fishing community, which we 100% vibe with

    When customers ask us for recommendations on flies that work, it’s hard not to point straight to MFC’s bins.


    Tips for Fishing with MFC Flies

    Wanna get the most out of your Montana Fly Company gear? Here are a few tips from the Lightweight Fly Shop crew:

    • Size down for spooky fish – MFC’s detail shines in smaller sizes, especially in clear water.
    • Add movement – Many of their patterns are designed with movement in mind. Short strips and twitches go a long way.
    • Use their fly boxes to stay organized – Sounds obvious, but having dries, nymphs, and streamers sorted in MFC boxes is a game-changer.

    FAQs: Montana Fly Company at Lightweight Fly Shop

    Q: Are MFC flies good for beginners?
    Absolutely. They’re easy to cast, durable, and effective across a range of conditions.

    Q: Do you carry the full line of MFC products?
    We stock a strong selection of their bestsellers, and we’re always adding more based on what anglers are asking for.

    Q: Can I order MFC products from your online store?
    Yep! Check out our online shop or swing by the shop in person—we’d love to walk you through our favorites.


    A Final Cast: Why MFC Belongs in Your Fly Box

    Montana Fly Company brings together the art and science of fly fishing in a way that few brands can. Whether you’re tying your own bugs or just need a solid day on the water, MFC’s flies and gear deliver time and time again.

    At Lightweight Fly Shop, we’re proud to carry MFC because we know it works—for beginners, pros, and everyone in between. So come grab a few flies, check out their stunning fly boxes, or dive into some tying materials and get those creative juices flowing.

    🎣 Tight lines and clean drifts—see ya on the water!