Johann Du Preez is an incredible fly fishing guide and artist from South Africa. He’s been dedicated to fly fishing since his grade-school days and has traveled the world with a fly rod and sketch pad in hand. We got a chance to sit down with Johann and hear more about his creations and for him to teach us how to draw a proper brown trout. Check Johann’s step-by-step guide and then read our interview with him below that!
Johann Du Preez’s step-by-step guide to drawing a brown trout!
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Get to know Johann in our interview with him, below!
Flylords: Tell us a little bit about yourself, Johann.Â
Johann: I am a 28-year-old South African fly fisherman, guide, and artist. I have been fully committed to fly fishing since 2006, but I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. I used to guide full-time but nowadays I devote a bit more time to my art. My artistic expression goes beyond just drawing and painting but also includes filming and photography.Â
Flylords: How has the pandemic impacted you and your businesses?
Johann: For a start, the pandemic has canceled all my international work and travel plans. I will probably only be able to guide again in August, which is tragic, but it has not been all bad. The lockdown has forced me to do focus on art and the growth has been great for me. I have pushed my own limits and experimented with new techniques that paid off.
Flylords: What has the reaction to COVID-19 been like for you in South Africa?
Johann: I think for once South Africa was quick to respond and acted very proactively. We put the brakes on the spread of COVID-19 pretty quickly and I am sure we will be able to roam free again soon-ish.
Flylords: Of the pieces, you have finished during the lockdown, which is your favorite so far?
Johann: It is hard to single out one piece. I will narrow it down to a top three.Â
-There is a brown trout I did in black and white on grey which I really like.Â
-I did a peacock bass in full color that came out pretty sweet.
-I sketched a Nile Perch with this African tribal theme and I am pretty proud of that one.
Flylords: Do you have any advice for folks looking to polish their artistic skills during this lockdown?
Johann: My advice to artists who wish to improve their drawing skills is to draw with absolute confidence. Don’t be lazy to start over, you have to be proud of every piece you send out into the world. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, I have started over a million times and that has made me a much better artist.
Flylords: Where is the first place you’re going fishing the moment you can get out?
Johann: I am heading straight to the Orange River once lockdown is over; I can’t give to much specifics on location though. I am going to drift a new section of water and hunt for big largemouth yellowfish.
Flylords: Where can people support and purchase your artwork?
Johann: Currently the best way to find me and to see my artwork is on Instagram. You can follow me @johanndupree_flyfishing.
