Monte returns to the Wizard | Deadliest Catch

The Wizard’s Journey Through Loss and Adversity

The journey aboard the Wizard has been nothing short of tumultuous. From mechanical issues and harsh weather to personal loss, the crew has faced numerous challenges. Following the passing of Captain Gary, the ship’s flag flies at half-mast, a solemn reminder of the grief that still lingers. For four weeks, it has endured the relentless battering of the elements.

As the crew continues to navigate the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea, Monte returns to the ship, having settled matters concerning his father’s passing. His return is met with warm embraces from the crew, and he is eager to resume the season, finding solace in the rhythm of work. His son, relieved to see his father back on board, notes that while Monte is still grieving, fishing provides a much-needed distraction.

A Looming Storm

Just as the crew regains some semblance of normalcy, ominous forecasts predict an impending storm. A massive high-pressure system has trapped low-pressure fronts in the north, fueling an enormous 200-mile tempest. As this storm intensifies, the Wizard is caught in its path.

Recognizing the urgency, the crew moves swiftly. Captain Keith entrusts the helm to Monte, instructing him to deploy 22 crab pots amidst the volatile conditions. Monte, though apprehensive about the task, accepts the challenge, relying on the ship’s stabilizers to maintain control.

The storm worsens as towering waves crash against the ship, the wind howling through the rigging. Despite the treacherous conditions, the crew presses on. The relentless ocean, however, has other plans. A colossal 12-meter wave suddenly engulfs the deck, sending thousands of liters of freezing seawater cascading over the crew. The force nearly sweeps 22-year-old deckhand Todd Mann overboard, his safety line the only thing preventing catastrophe.

Surviving the Fury of the Bering Sea

Regrouping after the massive hit, Monte realizes they must slow their pace. “That wave came out of nowhere,” he mutters, shaken. The unpredictability of the storm reinforces the need for caution. The darkness makes visibility nearly impossible, and Monte adjusts their course to reduce the risk of more direct hits from the relentless waves.

Despite the danger, the crew remains resolute. For Monte, the storm is more than a physical battle—it is a mental one. Back home, his thoughts were consumed by the loss of his father. Now, he is forced to focus on survival. The deafening wind, the towering waves, and the unpredictable sea demand his full attention.

The night stretches on, each hour a test of endurance. Monte knows that the worst is yet to come. The Wizard must push forward, battling not only the elements but also the weight of personal loss. The journey is far from over, but for now, survival is the only goal.