Larysa Switlyk

Larysa Switlyk is an American outdoor television host, competitive angler, and big-game huntress best known as the creator and host of the sports series Larysa Unleashed. Prior to transitioning into full-time outdoor media, she earned credentials as a Certified Public Accountant. She has traveled internationally to advocate for hunting conservation, host outdoor television broadcasts, and guide adventure trips around the globe.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 17, 1985, in Sarasota, Florida, Switlyk was raised in Florida and New York alongside three older brothers. She attended the University of Florida, where she completed both her bachelor's and master's degrees in accounting within four years. Following graduation, she worked in public accounting and completed a tax internship in New York City, becoming a licensed CPA. In 2008, during a solo trip to New Zealand, she tried firearm shooting and hunting for the first time, discovering a passion for field sports that redefined her career.

Television and Media Career

Switlyk made her national television debut in 2013 as a contestant on Animal Planet's reality fishing competition series Top Hooker. That same year, she launched her self-produced broadcast program, Larysa Unleashed, which premiered on NBC Sports and subsequently expanded to networks including Pursuit Channel and Wild TV. Her shows document international hunting and fishing expeditions while aiming to educate viewers about wildlife management, natural resource conservation, and outdoor safety. Her broadcasting work earned industry recognition, including a Professional Outdoor Media Association Pinnacle Award in 2021.

Business Ventures and Accomplishments

Leveraging her experience, Switlyk established Unleashed Global Adventures, a booking and consulting agency that connects outdoors enthusiasts with vetted international outfitters. As a competitive sporting enthusiast, she won the World Carp Classic title in 2015. She also earned the prestigious Capra World Slam from Grand Slam Club/Ovis for documenting successful hunts of over twelve distinct wild mountain goat species across rugged terrain. Over her career, she has hunted more than 120 species across sixty countries while leading specialized hosted trips for women and youth outdoors enthusiasts.