About Wild Spey
Celebrating the beauty of the natural world through the art of Craig Tinder
WildSpey is the gallery of artist, illustrator, and angler Craig Tinder, whose lifelong passion for fishing, history, and fine art has shaped decades of creativity. With over 30 years of experience, Craig blends scientific precision with an artist’s eye, capturing the timeless beauty of fish, wildlife, and the natural world. His work reflects a deep respect for nature and a commitment to craftsmanship that resonates with collectors and anglers alike.
About the Artist – Craig Tinder
Craig’s love of fishing and art began early. By high school, he was illustrating fly-fishing catalogs and books, creating displays for Idaho Fish & Game, and exhibiting wildlife art before graduation. He also taught lessons in fly casting, tying, and fishing—sharing the traditions of the sport while refining his craft.
Skilled in oil painting, pen and ink, and digital illustration, Craig brings both delicate detail and sweeping drama to his subjects. His art honors the heritage of fishing, the conservation of wild places, and the timeless artistry of nature itself.
Alongside his wife Jenny—his fishing and business partner—Craig has pursued fish across the globe, always with a brush or sketchbook close at hand. He co-founded one of the world’s largest fly-fishing youth organizations, instilling values of conservation and responsible sportsmanship. An advanced fly tyer, he also creates treasured Atlantic Salmon flies that stand as both art and tradition.
Craig’s career spans wildlife illustration and historical artwork. Through his other studio, AcesInAction.com, he is recognized for combining rare military artifacts with paintings licensed by the U.S. Military and cherished by veterans and families. This dual expertise—honoring history while celebrating nature—has made his work sought after worldwide.
Where Does “Spey” Originate From?
The name Spey comes from the legendary River Spey in Scotland, one of the world’s most storied fly-fishing waters. Known for its fast, clear currents and wild "King of Gamefish" Atlantic Salmon, the Spey has inspired generations of anglers and gave rise to the art of “Spey casting” with long, two-handed fly rods—often called Spey rods. Equally iconic are Spey flies, with their flowing hackles and elegant design, celebrated for both their beauty and their remarkable effectiveness in enticing fish.
Craig Tinder began adapting this style of fishing on the great Steelhead and Salmon rivers of America's West Coast in the early 1990s, using 15-foot Spey rods for long-distance casting well before the sport had gained popularity in North America. In honoring this river and its traditions, Wild Spey carries forward a legacy of artistry, innovation, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Guided by a reverence for nature and a commitment to craft, every Wild Spey print is a work of enduring beauty. Each art piece is designed to inspire, connect, and be treasured for a lifetime.
The Mission
Wild Spey celebrates the beauty of the natural world through Craig Tinder's art. From saltwater giants to delicate trout and vibrant birds, each print brings the outdoors into your home. Collectors and anglers value Craig’s craftsmanship and artistry—pieces designed to inspire connection and be cherished for generations.
Quality. Period.
Quality. It’s at the core of everything we do — from the craftsmanship behind each piece to the precision of materials we choose. At WildSpey, quality defines our work.
We view our collectors and customers as partners, striving to be the most trusted source of fine art. Every piece is created to exceed expectations — enduring and true to the natural world.
What does this mean? It means every print meets the highest standards. It means we choose the best papers, canvases, and inks to honor each design. And it means we stand behind every work, ensuring it inspires, connects, and lasts for generations.
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