What People Are Saying

What People Are Saying About Their Connection
with Derek’s Innovative Artwork & Unique Merchandise


Derek & Janell,

My wife and I wanted to share how much we love the cubist dripping brown canvas we got from you. Plus, it has brought me really good luck fishing lately.  I caught a nice 24” hookjaw after Christmas. Two weeks later, I caught a brown trout of a lifetime: 33” & 18lbs5oz.  Both were released.  Hope the luck continues 🙂

Thank you again for creating art that inspires fishermen to enjoy their passion in the home and on the water.

Byron & Kim
Fresno, CA


Hi Derek and Janell, Got my 4 Panel Brown Pere Marquette canvas print yesterday, and it’s absolutely beautiful! I’ve long admired your work and I figured it was time to have a canvas above my tying desk. On the weekends I enjoy chasing browns in the backcountry with my dachshund princess. You’d love it up there, high elevation mountains with lots of streams, lakes and lots of great wildlife to take pics of. I wish you both the best and I’ll be purchasing more in the future. Cheers – Bobby


“From my earliest of days on the Fly Fishing Show circuit, I knew I always wanted to have something to hang on my wall by Derek DeYoung, and when I inherited a little something from my Grandma G when she passed away, the economy had taken a turn for the worst, but I decided then, why not do it now – then I can enjoy it longer – and so I did commission this painting in his earlier days – 4 special fish of mine, from special places and special moments.

My Dad wrote me a letter when I told him about the art and sent an image that I’ve kept – and it said something to the effect: “in economic hard times, art is one of the last things people buy, so this says about you, you have courage, knowing no matter what happens, you’ll make it through.” I’d say, that was also my Grandma, who loved the arts and loved that I walked to the beat of my own drum. Thanks Derek for the amazing piece we collaborated on way back when!” – Nicole Bellevue, WA


“When I approached Derek about designing our new hard cider logo, he seemed to be immediately excited to help me. He loved the idea of working with our local business, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, to promote one of our bestselling locally produced products, our Spirit Cider.

Though his specialty is high end modern fish art, he was eager to branch out and create something that fit our vision and brand. I wasn’t sure the steps it would take to get to our final logo, but he and his wife and business partner, Janell, explained the steps to the process. They graciously invited me to their home to sit down and discuss what I was looking for. They patiently listened to the story and background of our Spirit Cider, and why I wanted a totem pole as the logo; and they seemed genuinely interested in the product and its history.

Spirit-Cider-testimonial

Derek immediately started sketching. First he showed several different directions we could go with our logo. With each option, he explained the benefit of the layout on our growlers and merchandise. He also explained the different angles and sizes he could paint and which aspect of the totem pole would “pop” based on the direction we concluded on.

Not only did he deliver the ideal size and proportion for our logo, but he incorporated woodland animals, fish, symbols that were important to me. Throughout the painting process, Derek texted me sketches, color ideas, and progress on the actual painting. He asked for feedback the whole time, making me feel a part of the design and respecting my vision.

The more I got to know Derek and Janell, I realized what wonderful, warm and caring people they are; in addition, they are talented, professional, and a joy to work with.”  – Kristy McClellan


“Merry Christmas [2016] from a very happy angler and fan!!”   – Karen, Boston MA

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“Janell & Derek,

Received shirts in mid-day mail & was quite pleased.

Painting arrived 5 PM & was gobsmacked when I unsheathed the canvases.  An incredibly vibrant work, and one that I think really captures the essence of what makes redfish so special on the Gulf coast.  Can’t wait to get it hung in our house.  Will send you a photo of the mounted work when I can get off work long enough to get down to the house (& do some fishing).

Keep up the great and highly imaginative art.  The angling art scene needed someone like you to shake things up a bit.

Best regards, & keep me in the loop on future work.  Would love to hear about your fishing trips (& associated videos) as well.  Will try to keep up on your website.

Thanks again for a great piece of art,”
Don S., Alabama

 


 

“Hi Janell and Derek,

CutthroatlamarWe received Cutthroat-Lamar today.  It arrived safe and sound.  You were right, this painting is amazing to see in person.

I love how the water on the face changes at different angles and light.  We absolutely love it!!! It’s such a joy seeing this painting everyday.  Take us away from the rat race of the bay area!

Thank you so much for what you do.  This will be a center piece in our home for a life time.  Take care and hope to get the chance to meet you both in person some day.”

Take care, Davin and Heather, San Jose, CA

 


“The first time I saw Derek’s work was at a local restaurant in Missoula, Montana. Immediately I knew his art would be perfect above the fireplace in our homse on the nearby Bitterroot River.  After spending some time looking at the various paintings on Derek’s website, I came up with an idea to incorporate our home into a painting of a Bitterroot brown trout.

I contacted Derek to discuss a commissioned piece and my idea. He was totally receptive as we collaborated over the phone. I sent him a few photos of our house and the space where the painting would be mounted and we were on the way. A few weeks later Derek sent me an approval sketch and a few weeks after that the painting was complete. What was really cool about the process is Derek would text me photos of the progress he was making on the painting, so we were actually able to see our painting come to life.

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We couldn’t be happier with the end result, what we call “Missoula Riverfront Retreat – Brown”. The vibrant colors contrast perfectly with the nature stone and woodwork making a perfect focal point in our living area. Everyone who has seen the painting in person is amazed.
Photos don’t do it justice!

Thank you Derek and Janell!
John L, California


“The rocks glasses rock! Perfect compliment to the artwork and completed the bar. Can’t wait to add more of your stuff to the collection. Love what you guys are doing!”
-Jake Maier, St. Charles, MO

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grant-wiswell“I have had the sincere pleasure of working with Derek and Janell several times over the past five years. Derek’s special talent for transforming everyday fish images into amazing art is truly unique.  From a vibrant palate, to the mastering of color, I remain inspired each time he sits at the canvas.  While his traditional trout faces speak to my love of freestones and five-weights, his new tarpon series has struck a deeper cord.  We are currently working on a film called Atlanticus, which focuses on the magnificent Tarpon.  Derek thank you for sharing your talents with all of us, “Silver King” will proudly be hung in my office during the production of our next film!  Keep up the great work…”
Grant Wiswell, Owner, Castaway Films

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Derek,

“The painting arrived 100% in tack and beautifully shipped.

ALL I CAN SAY IS I AM BLOWN AWAY!!!! It is so beautiful, vibrant and ALIVE!!

Thank you so much for this and it will always grace our home. It will always remind me of the beauty of these perfect creatures we are lucky to see and once in awhile touch, not to mention enjoy their environment.”
rob-art

“I just wanted to share with you how your wonderful painting is hung. I really could not be happier and all who come to our home love the work! We hung it in our most important room, the kitchen where I admire it every day. Bottom line, I love it! Thank you again!
-Rob, Durango, CO


jerry-phone-cover
“I just received my iPhone case in the mail and put my phone in it.  It’s even better looking than the photos on your website.

Even if it’s “just” a cell phone case, I’m pleased to have a piece of your art.
Thank you,”
-Jerry, Seattle, WA

 


“Item arrived today. It’s perfect! Thanks again.”
-Jake, Missouri

Jake-testimonial-a

 


“Janell,
The Tiger Musky Flank original exceeded my expectations it is absolutely beautiful. Please tell Derek and hope to purchase more original art.”
Sincerely, John B., Atlanta, GA

Tiger-Musky


what an amazing piece of art…& it fits beautifully!
I hope you two are well! congratulations & best wishes for your new home.”
regards, allison

A note from Janell about this special piece, The Brown Trout/Tarpon Hybrid. Derek worked on this piece while at the ICAST show in Orlando this year (2015) as a custom commission piece for a client who loves to fish Brown Trout and Tarpon, and this piece reflects the best of both worlds.

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The painting is spectacular! Thank you so much. The sketch is also really neat, and thanks for the note cards.I had wanted one of Derek’s trout paintings for a long time and I got a great one. ”
-Mike, Georgia

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“Thank you Derek. We just hung up Brown October and love it. I have the painting in my office so I can look at it and think of tight lines when I’m not fishing. Hang loose. Mahalo.”
– Jim R, Arizona

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“Derek,  Thanks again, you truly have inspired not only myself but my students that I teach. You are the Van Gogh in the fish world. Keep Rockin’  – Rock the Arts!
Sincerely, Matthew

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“Hi Mr. DeYoung,
My name is Dominick, and I am a sophomore in high school from the east coast.

For my final project in art class this year, I was assigned to create a piece based on a current artist’s style; yet, I also needed to incorporate my own ideas and characteristics into the work. Although I am not very experienced with using acrylic paint, I decided to create my project with it because I wanted to be able to replicate your use of vibrant colors.

As you probably know, California has been parched by the worst drought it has experienced in decades. The California Golden Trout has been facing many dangers in the past few years, and as the population continues do decline, a lack of water certainly isn’t doing much good for the species. I wanted to show this concept through my artwork; as the man reaches an empty riverbed, he is met with the sight of a lonesome road sign, and an abstracted golden trout face
as the background.

I wanted to share this with you and also say thank you for being an inspiration
for a young artist like myself! I really like your style and hope to continue
to refer to it as I begin to develop my own.

Thank You, and hope you’re enjoying the summer!”

dominick-honoring-derekDominick’s finished Golden Trout Face art project


“Hi Janell! The canvas is absolutely perfect!!! Definitely the best birthday gift EVER!! My husband was so surprised and he loves it! I think I just won wife of the year!

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Thank you for all of your help and for this beautiful piece of art we can look at every day!”
– Kristen

 


“Hi Janell: Just wanted to let you and Derek know we received the canvases and they are beautiful. We could not be more pleased. We look forward to collecting more of your beautiful art. We have attached a photo so you can see the magnificent piece of art in our place.

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Thanks again and we hope to order more soon.”
Best regards, Jay and Elizabeth

 


 

“Hello, Smiling from ear to ear. I received the three original art pieces that I purchased from the holiday sale today! They arrived a day earlier than expected and in great shape. The care in packing the art was amazing and it may have taken the most amount of patience I’ve ever experienced to slowly cut through the layers of cardboard and bubble wrap to get to the prize. The framing on the Abel knife looks great and the colors are amazing, great choice.

The time Janell took to guide me through my purchases while fielding dozens of questions in combination with the astonishing art that Derek creates, has made me a member of your loyal following for years to come.

NeonBrownStudy1

I appreciate your contribution to my home and can’t wait for the next opportunity to adopt another one of your masterpieces! Addicted to DeYoung,” – Gordon

 


 

owl-nick

“The owl painting arrived safely and I didn’t open it until taking it to the cabin this weekend (wanted to keep it safely packed for the drive). I absolutely love it. I can’t tell you how many times I went back to marvel at the brush strokes and detail, appreciating some little nuance with each return. It’s funny, but I think I own six originals now and I still go up to each one frequently and admire the details before drifting off into some good fishing or Montana memory. Art really is good medicine.

– Nick, Washington

 


 

“I have a total of seven of Derek’s paintings displayed throughout my house, two of which were commissioned paintings and two of which have been on the covers of magazines. Regarding the two commissioned paintings, Derek was very patient in understanding my vision of what I was trying to capture in each painting. Derek listened intently, asked probing questions, and was able to take my “stick figure representations” (yes, literally) and turn them into beautiful works of art.

Derek accomplished this by producing a number of drawings of each proposed painting, we came to agreement on the content of each painting, and then Derek worked his magic. Derek did a great job of periodically sharing pictures of his progress on each painting.

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My favorite commissioned painting was of my two sons catching large, beautiful trout on the Missouri River and the Madison River. It was through numerous conversations that Derek came up with the idea of having a neutral setting in between the two boys that allowed for the painting to actually be two physically separate paintings that were connected together. So for now, I am the proud owner of one large painting of my two sons holding up fish in a driftboat. At some point, as each boy grows up, we can separate that painting so that each boy can have his own painting. Brilliant!

Derek’s use of vibrant colors truly captures the experience of pulling a beautiful trout out of the water. At this point, my only constraint in owning more of Derek’s paintings is having suitable wall space to display such beautiful works of arts. Oh, and did I mention that he is a hoot to fish with?”

– Tom, Alton, Illinois

 


 

“Thank you for your time. Most of all, thank you for your beautiful artwork! You know, there’s a joy and beauty in fly fishing that mirrors the joy and beauty of your art.

There’s a quiet joy, when I’m casting my husband’s handmade, diamond midge into the cold, crisp White River. I’m so engrossed in making that perfect cast, then I notice the stillness. Peace comes when I stop to listen to the silence. I look down to the foggy bend to see my husband’s silhouette, quietly casting and reaching. Due to the cold, misty rain, we are alone. With the frigid waters almost overtaking my waders, my indicator disappears.

The fight is on, even though it will, most likely, be a smaller Rainbow or, if extremely blessed, a Brown! It doesn’t matter if it’s big or little, Rainbow or Brown, it still fills the holes in my soul. I smile as I scoop it into my net and see the beautiful reflections of colors.

Just then, I see Wayne turn my way, and I know he is smiling with me. Then comes the bald eagle ten feet overhead, scanning the waters for a meal; or I hear the wild turkeys fussing in the woods; or I spot a lonely deer, hesitantly coming to drink along the edge. Wonder and serenity, all wrapped in one moment of joy.

Your beautiful artwork reminds me of beautiful times like this. Again, thank you for seeing the beauty and bringing it to canvas.”

Sincerely, Kathy

 


 

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“After dating for 7 and half years, I knew it was time to pop the question to my girlfriend Alyssia Duvall. Fly fishing was something that we had done together the last few years and I knew with fall coming up that the White River would be the perfect setting.

After eating breakfast, I talked her into taking a walk before we went out on the river for the day. Without her knowing, I had friends set up to taking pictures from the hill above us.

With the help of the DeYoung fly box, I got down on one knee and proposed. I knew this was fitting for us because you are our favorite fishing artist and Alyssia is hooked on brook trout. Thanks again for your awesome products and I can’t wait to see what you create next.” – Kyle Barton

flybox_web

Congratulations Kyle and Alyssia! What an honor for Kyle to use one of my fly boxes to present the “fly” that his fiance will cherish for the rest of her life…thank you for your story! – Derek

 


 

brett

“Hi Janell, I wanted to let you know that I received all three canvas prints in good order. Thank you for the efficient and careful shipping and handling.

They are amazing to see in person – much greater than I even expected! I’m really fortunate to have gotten in touch with Derek’s work and to proudly show it in my home. Fits perfectly well here in Naples, Florida!”

Thanks again, Brett

 


“Hello!! I ordered 2 coffee mugs on Thursday for my partner for fathers day. I’ve already received them!! I am blown away. They are fantastic and much bigger than I expected. I can’t wait to give them to him along with the coasters and sticker, he will be absolutely ecstatic to own anything by his favourite artist. Your service is amazing and your artwork absolutely beautiful. I hope to one day have one of your paintings on our wall. Thank you so much for everything.” – Amanda Kelly

 


 

“Derek, I don’t know what to say – it’s beyond beautiful… I’ve just been sitting in my living room looking at all 3 panels and I can’t pick one of them as my favorite – they each have a “favorite” component. I love the jaguar in the last panel. The pirahanas – they are almost my favorite, even over the peacock bass. They are so “alive” – REALLY!

anna_use

You can see the water movement in how you painted them!!! I love the hammocks, the amazonian guide, and the sky in the evening and night scene. It really is quite incredible …

– Anna, Little Rock, AR

 


 

“I have been in the fishing industry since 1990 and have seen many different outdoor artists along the way. Most of these were the typical “fish swimming on canvas”; none of which I was interested in displaying in my own home. This all changed when I first met Derek at The Fly Fishing show in Somerset, NJ in 2006. Derek had a booth behind ours and the word around the show was that his paintings were amazing and inspiring. I walked over to his booth and at first glance I could tell that not only was Derek a true artist but that he lived in his paintings. They brought to life my feelings about the sport that I love so much. His art is mesmerizing!

I am proud to have Derek’s art in my own home and it will always have a home in the TCO stores as well.” – Tony, Reading, Pennsylvania

 


 

4-in-1-full-Pads_4

“We received the 4 in 1 – Lilypads painting yesterday…..David was super surprised. We were both utterly overwhelmed by how beautiful the painting was. We spent literally all evening admiring it while listening to groovy music (David is a vinyl junky and fly fishing fanatic) and drinking yummy dark Maine-made beer out of our new pilsner glasses. We will cherish your masterpiece forever, Derek.” – Lora, Maine

 


 

“I used to think that Derek was an extremely talented artist. Then we went fishing. Now I’m not sure whether he’s an angler with a brush or an artist with a fly rod. Either way, there are not many people in the world able to combine the two geniuses as well as he does. Even my non-fishing friends (there are a few) are captivated by his work.

When we finished our home in Montana, looking at the fireplace, it did not take one second before my wife and I thought, “this place needs a DeYoung.”

jimd

We later met Derek and Janell at an event in San Francisco where we talked about what we wanted. Derek then “saw” a vision that is now turning into the centerpiece of our home. There are a lot of people who love to fish, and many others who can translate visions onto canvas; but there is no one who can combine the two like Derek DeYoung.” –

Jim, San Francisco CA

 


 

“Boom! Got the DeYoungs hung, now tomorrow finish the tile around the fireplace. Thanks Derek DeYoung for the amazing addition to the house.”

– John, Livingston, MT

 

 

 


 

“I first saw Derek’s work while walking into the Trout Hunter Bar in Idaho a few summers ago. I was immediately struck by his use of colour and the unique composition of his paintings. There were a number of pieces in there at the time but the 4in1 really caught my eye and guaranteed that at some stage, I would be getting one for my FlyShop down here in Australia. Two years passed and I finally contacted Derek to purchase one of the pieces that he had listed on his site. I was so impressed when it arrived that I immediately ordered another one to commemorate a fly pattern that was developed by one of the guides that works here.

A few months later while fishing in Montana, I stopped by Derek’s studio to check out the custom painting (Abstract Brown – KnobbyX) before it was shipped to me, only to see yet another one that I loved (Drive-In Hatch). Add to this a ‘Trout Confetti’ (#5) and a 4in1 to come next January and I have what I consider to be a nice collection of Derek’s work.

anthony-deyoung-gallery

To me Derek’s paintings represent a new way of visualising a subject that we all know so well. Artworks based around a fly fishing theme have been around for a long time and it is seldom that you see something that breaks with conventional wisdom as much as Derek’s work. So many of the artists that depict trout strive for precise, life-like representations of their subjects; almost like they were producing a taxonomist’s hand guide. Derek’s work jumps off the canvas and assaults your senses with vibrant colours and a fresh point of view.

Derek is very relaxed by nature but is thoroughly professional when it comes to his work. He is a great communicator, answering emails promptly and sending status updates as a painting progresses. Also worth mentioning is that he somehow managed to keep to the timelines he gave me during the consultation period of the process. Something most artists struggle with. ‘Bare footed but on time’ is how I would choose to describe him. My only criticism of Derek would be a tiny slight on his personal character. He has far too many streamers in his fly collection with too few dry flies. I don’t think you can ever completely trust a guy like that.”

– Antony, Goulburn River, Thornton, Australia

 


 

giclee-print-Amado-1“Dear Derek and Janell, I received the giclee print I ordered and thought I would show you it’s new home. This is my new house in the Catskills and the room is my cozy little den.

It was intended to be the splash of color and I think we succeeded. Even my decorator loves it. Thanks a lot.”

-Bill Amado

 


 

kevins_c_print-e1351873511920“Came home today to find my print had arrived in the mail and immediately went to work to hang it. Could not be happier with how it turned out!

– Kevin, Michigan (via Facebook)

 


 

“Hello again, I received my glasses and they are even better looking in person. I also received a set of coasters and a DeYoung sticker with my order as a gift. I cannot thank you enough for the awesome products and exceptional service. Your small gestures really stick with customers. I will be “visiting” the online store again soon. THANK YOU AND DEREK SO MUCH!”- Jerrett

 


 

“Janell – Received shirt today – Quality, Quality, Quality, Artwork – Unbelievable, Artwork application – Excellent, Shirt Quality – Excellent, lightweight, perfect for summer.”

Thanks again, Kenneth

 


 

“Thank you SO much for my UV shirt! I’m in love with it, it’s perfect!!! This is going to be my new shirt that I don’t ever want to take off! It’s so cool and different and I’m super happy with it!”

Thanks again! Dalia

 


 

“Hi Janell, I wanted to let you know that I received the order that I placed and I am absolutely in love with everything. The flank series pilsner glasses are so beautiful – they look even better than I had imagined. I can not wait to give them to my fiance and see the look on his face! He is going to be so excited and I’m sure we will enjoy them for years to come! Thank you so much for the wonderful customer service. Looking forward to ordering more DeYoung artwork and merchandise in the future.”

Thank you again, Megan

 


 

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We love our new stuff!!

Thank you sooo much! It brightens up our little Cody place. You two are great!! (Steve is happy guy)”

– Glen, Cody, Wyoming

 

 

 


 

“Thank you so much for the update on Kevin’s canvas. He is so excited to have one of Derek’s pieces. Not sure he knows yet, but I have a wall in the house to prominently display the canvas, and it is not in his room! We also want to extend our thanks to you and Derek for taking the time to walk us through your beautiful home and gallery. What an honor to see Derek’s work and get to know the artist creating such beautiful pieces. It was also our pleasure to meet you (the staff that keeps the business running) and your four legged family.”

Best Regards, Colleen, Michigan

 


 

Thanks so much for the prompt shipment! I highly anticipate the arrival of my package. I think the limited edition case is going to be a fantastic conversation piece. I feel lucky – I was somewhat reluctant to pay the $9.00 price tag for the most recent issue of FlyFusion (in a small airpoirt). That was of course until I read about Derek’s signed and numbered cases. Had I known I would discover something so fantastic, I would have gladly paid more for the magazine! Now do I put a screen protector of the cover?”

– Adam, Highlands Ranch, Colorado

 


 

slough_creek

“Derek and Janell, Hope you are well. I received the Slough Creek canvas print a couple of weeks ago. It arrived in perfect shape! I enjoy seeing it in our home. Not only the colors but the print brings good memories of our trip to YNP and Slough Creek in particular. I’ll keep checking in on the web page and looking forward to more of your art!”

Take care and best regards, Mark