Derik began his Guiding career in the Southeastern United States, working daily trips and exploring as many Rivers as possible from Maryland to Georgia during his days off. It did not take long before he followed the call of Rivers of the Western United States, and eventually abroad to continue feeding his passion for Whitewater year round.

His home is on the Rivers, whether in Africa, South America, or somewhere new! When he is not at the back of the boat, you can find him jamming some tunes with the Bio Bio crew, rigging up his fly rod, playing with rocks, learning to brew beer, or reading science fiction.