vermont home experts

Ben Sargent – a culinary explorer and charismatic TV host best known for Hook, Line & Dinner on Cooking Channel – is equally celebrated for his adventurous home‑building creations on HGTV and DIY Network.

Born in New England, Ben first made a name for himself as the “Brooklyn Chowder Surfer,” launching underground seafood ventures and earning acclaim for his chowder prowess . He parlayed that passion into Hook, Line & Dinner, where he traveled the Eastern Seaboard, teaming up with local fishermen to catch and cook fresh seafood, then sharing those stories and recipes with viewers .

But Ben’s creativity didn’t stop at the dinner table. Off-camera, he became the visionary behind strong home‑building series like Backyard Goldmines (DIY Network) and Unique Sleeps (HGTV/Travel Channel), where he transforms unexpected spaces—like old houseboats, barns, or unused outbuildings—into extraordinary vacation rentals . Drawing on his roots in Vermont, where he lovingly revitalized his family’s farmhouse into a cozy retreat and event space, Ben blends rustic charm with smart design to craft distinctive spaces that feel both authentic and functional .

On screen and off, Ben has built a brand around sustainability, craftsmanship, and hospitality—be it catching and cooking his own seafood or turning discarded structures into dreamy escapes. His work reflects a life lived at the intersection of creativity and practicality, and his infectious enthusiasm continues to inspire viewers to reimagine the potential of their homes and environments.