Serving Amador and Surrounding Communities

About Tight Lines Tackle & Fly:
Your Local Experts in Premium Fishing Gear

tight lines tackle and fly

Deep Roots in the Motherlode & Sierra

Welcome to Tight Lines Tackle & Fly, founded by John Hixson, a third-generation Amador County Native, US Air Force Veteran, and life-long angler. We are more than just a tackle shop; we are a community hub for anglers, born out of love for the diverse waters of California Motherlode.

From the aggressive bass in our local reservoir to the elusive wild trout in the high country lakes and streams, we know that success on the water comes down to one thing: having the right fishing gear and the local knowledge to use it.

Close-up of a person holding a freshly caught brown trout with red spots, resting over a landing net and dry pine needles, with the Tight Lines Tackle & Fly logo overlay.

Commitment to the Sport

To ensure our customers have access to the best resources and that our local fisheries remain protected, we are proud active members of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA).

members of american sportfishing
members of bass

The Tight Lines
Mission

A collage  of fishing gear showing a close-up of a spinning reel attached to a fishing rod, with a blurred background of a calm river reflecting trees and a blue sky.

We started Tight Lines Tackle & Fly with a simple observation: the local big-box stores were selling plenty of cheap stuff, but they weren’t selling solutions. You deserve better than the limited, mass-market supplies found at Walmart or Big 5.

Our mission is to curate the highest quality fishing gear available—brands like Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, and Z-Man—and put it directly into the hands of the anglers who need it most.

We are dedicated to providing anglers with more than gear — delivering local fishing expertise, practical guidance, and a welcoming community that supports confidence, self-reliance, and respect for the outdoors.

A green circular badge featuring a classic brass fly reel with a gold ribbon below reading "QUALITY OVER QUANTITY".

Quality Gear for Every Budget

We believe everyone should have access to gear that lasts. That’s why we stock a range of equipment that balances performance with value—from entry-level setups to pro-grade kits.

Every rod, reel, and fly in our shop is hand-selected because it’s proven to work in our local Sierra foothills and mountain waters.

A shield-shaped logo showing two hands shaking over a largemouth bass and a river landscape, with a gold ribbon reading "COMMUNITY FIRST" and the Oro Madre Bass Anglers logo.

Community First

At our core, we are locals supporting locals. We are proud supporters of the Oro Madre Bass Anglers and are dedicated to the future of local conservation.

When you choose Tight Lines, you aren’t just buying fishing gear; you are investing in a business that cares about the health of our local fisheries and the people who enjoy them.

Join Us on the Water

Our retail store is opening this Spring 2026. Follow us on Facebook for updates.

Experience the difference that premium fishing gear makes.