Meet Ty

Ty Hallock is a Wyoming-based fishing guide, artist, and outdoorsman whose work is inspired by life on the river and close encounters with wildlife. As a guide for Ugly Bug Fly Shop in Casper, Wyoming, Ty spends countless days on the North Platte River studying fish behavior, landscapes, and the subtle details that shape his artwork.

Known for customizing fly boxes, YETI coolers, and outdoor gear with detailed fish illustrations, Ty’s work reflects both artistic precision and a deep appreciation for wild fisheries. His Sawyer Artisan Series design features a brown trout — a species that carries special meaning both personally and professionally.

On Wyoming’s North Platte River, brown trout are considered rare “purple unicorns.” They are elusive, highly sought after, and uniquely patterned, with no two fish looking exactly alike. Ty’s connection to these fish and the challenge of pursuing them inspired his contribution to the Sawyer Artisan Series.

Although his featured design centers on brown trout, Ty also carries a strong connection to steelhead and salmon conservation in the Pacific Northwest. After moving to the Columbia River region in 2002, he immersed himself in steelhead fishing and later worked with the USGS tracking salmon through Columbia River systems. That experience deepened his understanding of habitat challenges, fish passage issues, and the importance of science-based restoration efforts.

Today, Ty continues using his artwork to support conservation organizations and fisheries initiatives while sharing the stories of the rivers and fish that inspire his work.