Maven Ambassador: Christiaan Pretorius

Windhoek, Namibia, Africa

Christiaan Pretorius started fly-fishing at the age of six years old under the guidance of his father. Since that day, as they say, the rest is history. He accepted the challenge to fully pursue a career in fly-fishing. His first real introduction to international travel and fly-fishing came when he was chosen to represent his country at the world fly-fishing championship held in Portugal. Since then, he has represented his country at 7 World Fly fishing championships. His last World Championship was in Vail, Colorado in 2016.

In 2011, this fly fishing junkie made the huge commitment to pursue his passion in becoming a fulltime fly fishing guide. He started his career on the African continent guiding for Tiger fish and soon after got the opportunity to jump on a plane to go guide the Seychelles seasons. He spent a good couple of seasons on the turquoise blue flats of the Seychelles, before another opportunity presented it self. Kamchatka, Russia, became home to him for three seasons together with Seychelles and a short season in Kola Peninsula. In combining these seasons for three years, Christiaan spent 250+ days guiding on the water. Completely disconnected from the normal world for more than 8 months a year.

In 2014, Christiaan also joined up with The Fly Shop, based in Redding, California. He was presented the opportunity to become a travel ambassador for the company hosting groups to various destinations around the globe. Since then through guiding, hosting and exploratory, Christiaan has fished in 34 countries to date.

Apart from guiding, Christiaan and his wife have also managed Abaco lodge, in the Bahamas, for three seasons. His passion in working with people and the amount of drive that he provides in a close environment is infectious. His passion sets him apart in so many ways. This is not a plan B for him, but this is a career that he has been committed to since the day he made his first cast.

When not out on the water, he also spends much needed time with his wife Lindi. His other passions also include fly tying, photography, filming and bowhunting. While calling Namibia his home, the majority of his fishing takes place all around the globe.