Defining one’s art and establishing a unique brand is a hallmark of a talented and astute artist. In the world of fly-fishing, there exists a culture that not only accepts but also encourages and nurtures a supportive and appreciative environment for artists willing to share their work with a broader audience. Casey Underwood, in this regard, stands out not only as a rare talent but as an artist and designer who captivates viewers with his interpretation of the natural world through vivid colors and intricate lines.
Having earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a focus on printmaking and painting from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, Underwood honed his artistic style while residing in Seattle and pursuing wild steelhead in the Olympic Peninsula. Following his marriage, he and his wife relocated to Bozeman, Montana. Casey’s primary focus is on painting, drawing, and photography. In 2015, he made the transition to working as a full-time artist and has since gained recognition as one of the prominent artists in the outdoor and wildlife art space. This California transplant, with a deep appreciation for west slope cutthroat trout, made a significant impact as a bold artist and designer within the fly-fishing and outdoor communities. He collaborated with renowned companies such as Sage, Filson, Bench made, and currently, Abel Reels.
Casey is a prolific illustrator with a portfolio that includes over 100 different species of fish and wildlife. His freelance design work is in high demand by leading brands in the outdoor industry. His distinctive style is characterized by clean lines, layered colors, and crosshatched detailing.
Growing up in a family deeply immersed in fly fishing, Casey was introduced to the sport at a young age. His passion for angling and hunting runs deep, and he’s always held a special fascination for birds and fish. His profound love for rivers is reflected in the flowing and dynamic nature of his artistic designs.
After completing his college education, he embarked on a three-month road trip across the Western United States. Armed with his fly rod, he explored various regions in search of different trout species. This adventure served as a powerful inspiration for him to start creating art centered around his beloved subjects: fish, birds, and other wildlife.
One of Casey’s most admirable qualities is his commitment to making his art accessible to a wide audience. He’s passionate about “getting art on people’s walls,” and that’s why he offers open-edition prints of his work, ensuring that more individuals can enjoy and appreciate his creations.
His artwork is a product of his deep love for fly fishing, and the Pacific Northwest is a place that truly nourishes that passion. With the Olympic Peninsula, the Cascades, and Puget Sound all nearby, Seattle offers an unparalleled hub for a wide range of fly-fishing experiences. In terms of inspiration, it’s a continuous cycle: his art drives him to venture out onto the river, and his time on the river fuels his desire to create more artwork. This connection between his craft and the natural world is a constant source of motivation.
Casey Underwood’s journey in the world of art has come a long way since his early days of holding art shows in his grandmother’s driveway. Through his collaboration series with Abel Reels, he has reached a point where his art merges with functionality.
Abel Reels’ Vice President, Jeff Patterson, expresses pride in having Casey as part of their select team of exceptional outdoor artists. Casey dedicated his time to creating six original designs for Abel Reels, each corresponding with different reel models in their lineup.
In the upcoming months, he has plans to develop many fresh ideas. His primary focus is shifting toward creating large, unique paintings. However, he remains committed to ensuring that his art is accessible to anyone who admires it. Whether it’s an original piece, an open edition print, or a decal, he aims to make his artwork available to people at various levels of interest so that they can obtain the pieces that truly excite them.
