The captain’s apprentice faces a terrible accident | Deadliest Catch

The High-Stakes Start of Crab Fishing Season

At 200 miles northeast of Dutch Harbor, aboard the Saga, the crew braces for another intense season of Alaskan crab fishing. The preparations are in full swing, and the pressure is mounting. For Captain Jake Anderson, this isn’t just another season—it’s personal. He has a point to prove, especially after past rivalries with Captain Sig Hansen of the Northwestern.

The Ritual for Good Luck

Before setting the traps, the crew partakes in an age-old tradition meant to appease the crab gods. A reluctant crew member is chosen to bite into a raw herring—a superstition believed to bring good fortune. While some refuse, knowing the challenges ahead, they agree that every bit of luck helps.

A Strategic Approach

Unlike past seasons where the main goal was to drop traps as quickly as possible, this year requires more patience and strategy. Captain Sig Hansen explains this to his daughter, Mandy, who is stepping up in her role within the crew. Rather than rushing, she carefully spreads the traps across a 100-mile stretch, covering both northern and southern areas.

“We need to take our time, analyze the situation, and locate the crabs before making our big move,” Captain Hansen instructs.

Mandy, eager to prove herself, is given full control over the next phase. “Mark the route, set the speed, and press the button,” she repeats to herself, ensuring each step is done correctly.

A Near-Deadly Mistake

Just as things seem to be running smoothly, an unexpected mistake turns into a near-disaster. While launching the buoy, crew member Clark Pederson inadvertently catches the rope on a steel hook. Unaware of the issue, Mandy fails to disengage the boat’s gears, tightening the rope until it snaps. The hook, now under extreme tension, is sent flying toward the crew, nearly causing a serious injury.

The deck is left in silence, the weight of the moment sinking in. “That hook nearly killed me,” one of the crew members mutters, shaken.

Lessons Learned

Captain Hansen gathers everyone to debrief. “Why didn’t anyone hear the warning?” he asks. The miscommunication and rushed actions had led to the incident. Mandy realizes her mistake—assuming the crew was ready instead of confirming.

“I wasn’t trying to rush, I just thought we had to keep moving,” she admits.

Her father reassures her, “It’s not about blame. It’s about making sure it never happens again.” The lesson is clear: safety and communication must always come first.

Looking Ahead

Despite the rough start, the crew remains determined. “We need to see crabs in these traps,” Mandy declares, her confidence growing.

As the traps settle into the icy depths, the crew waits, hoping their patience and strategic approach will pay off. The stakes are high, but one thing is certain—this season will test their skill, resilience, and teamwork like never before.