Founder and Guide

A lifelong adventurer and avid angler, Blaede Russell grew up immersed in the wild landscapes of Kenya. From an early age, he found himself drawn to the outdoors, whether exploring the vast wilderness of Tsavo, casting lines in remote rivers, or navigating the rhythms of life in the bush. These experiences laid the foundation for a career built around exploration, conservation, and pushing the limits of adventure travel.

His journey into professional guiding began after completing his studies in the UK, where he balanced his time between business studies at the Royal Agricultural University and fishing the storied rivers of southern England. He quickly proved his skills on the water, competing at an international level in saltwater fly fishing, securing top placements at just 16 and 18 years old. But the pull of Africa was too strong to ignore.

Blaede’s guiding career has taken him across six African countries, working in some of the most remote and challenging environments on the continent. His experience spans both photographic safaris and specialized fishing expeditions, making him as comfortable tracking wildlife on horseback as he is guiding anglers in extremely remote waters.

As a proud Head guide for African Waters, Blaede has spent multiple seasons guiding in Tanzania, Gabon, and Cameroon, where he plays a critical role in running operations, managing logistics, and ensuring the safety of guests in extreme conditions. Whether navigating the strong currents of the Mnyera River for monster tigerfish, leading guests through the dense mangroves of Gabon, or overseeing remote bush camps in Cameroon for Giant Nile Perch, he thrives in the unpredictable nature of the wild. His responsibilities extend beyond guiding—from camp construction and logistics to client hospitality and conservation initiatives—giving him a deep understanding of what it takes to run world-class, off-the-grid expeditions.

His experience also includes offshore big game fishing in Zanzibar, Kenya, equestrian safaris in South Africa, and leading exploratory expeditions in newly discovered fisheries.

With a passion for untamed places, conservation, and the thrill of the unknown, Blaede continues to seek out uncharted waters and new frontiers, always chasing what he calls “the quest for life.”