"From Chef to Fly Fishing Guide: My Journey with FLYTASTIC in Switzerland"
Darren Crawford From an early age, I was captivated by fishing—tying intricate knots blindfolded and trying fly fishing at 14. Though I navigated secondary school and trained as a chef in Appenzell, my passion for fishing never faded. After my culinary career, I discovered joy in bartending and connecting with people. This period also sparked a deeper personal quest.
The Crossroads of Passion and Profession
In 2015, armed with a vocational high school diploma and culinary apprenticeship, I pursued hotel management studies. A transformative 2017 summer internship in Canada, where I worked as a "Lodge Assistant Manager" at a fishing lodge, deepened my love for the sport. Returning to Switzerland, I grappled with my future career path, growing increasingly uncertain about my studies.
Embracing the Call of the Wild
Completing my studies in spring 2020—coinciding with the COVID-19 lockdown—gave me time to fully immerse myself in fly fishing. I realized I wanted not just to fish but to share my knowledge and passion. Determined to guide others into nature, I combined my culinary skills with outdoor experiences, launching FLYTASTIC, a free website where I documented my adventures and insights.
Turning Passion into Profession
By summer 2021, I made FLYTASTIC my profession. Through workshops, I teach fly fishing techniques, water ecology, and respect for nature. My goal is to inspire fellow anglers and enhance their joy on the water. Now, I live my dream: sharing the art of fly fishing.
Workshops Offered:
- Fly Fishing for Beginners & Pros
- Custom Rod Building
- Fly Presentation Techniques
Expertise in Targeting These Species:
- Brown Trout
- Grayling
- Pike
FLYTASTIC is more than a hobby—it’s a way of life.
