Product Review – Smith & Suncloud Sunglasses

Why I Choose Smith Optics and Suncloud for Fishing Around Livingston

by Max Smith and Matt Swan

Fishing around Livingston means dealing with a variety of water conditions—from the gin-clear spring creeks like DePuy’s and Armstrong’s to the bigger, often murkier Yellowstone River. On the Yellowstone, fishing can be challenging because spotting the fish themselves is tough. It’s a lot like what Tom Rosenbauer’s “How to Read the River” from Orvis teaches—success comes down to reading and understanding the structure and currents where fish hold. Being able to see rocks, logs, pockets, and deeper cut banks is key. These sunglasses make that possible by cutting glare and making the water clearer to your eyes so you can read the river better.

Smith Optics are a favorite because their lenses help colors and contrasts stand out using ChromaPop technology, making it easier to see subtle details and underwater structure. This helps reduce eye strain and lets you spot fish-holding spots, even in tougher water. My personal go-to is the Guide’s Choice brown lens—it’s perfect for the changing light and varied water conditions we see here. Plus, Smith’s glasses are durable, scratch-resistant, and offer full UVA/UVB protection—ideal for long days on Montana rivers.

Suncloud is a great option for anglers who want solid eye protection without the extremely advanced features – only subtlety less refined in contrast to Smith, perfect for your non-fishing wife and children Their styles are casual and stylish enough to wear every day and are equipped with great durability as well. Both brands offer plenty of lens color choices to fit your needs and preferences.

Both brands do great for long days on the water, and buying them at Sweetwater Fly Shop means you get unmatched local knowledge and service.

If you’re serious about fishing the Yellowstone River and local spring creeks, Smith and Suncloud sunglasses will give you the edge you need. Protect your eyes, see the structure clearly, and fish smarter every day.