Sig Hansen’s Massive Crab Haul Makes Him “Want To Cry” | Deadliest Catch

Captain Sig Hansen Battles to Finish a Tough King Crab Season

Aboard the 125-ton Northwestern, Captain Sig Hansen is closing in on the final stretch of an arduous king crab season. With the latest offload complete, the crew has hauled in approximately 178,000 pounds of crab. However, an additional 25,000 to 30,000 pounds is still needed to hit their quota.

“We’re in The Final Countdown here,” Sig remarks as the team prepares for one last push. Despite the challenges posed by fluctuating water temperatures, Sig remains optimistic. “These pots have been soaking, so I’ll knock on wood and hope things go well.”

While the crew works tirelessly, another weighty decision looms over the veteran captain. Greenhorn Clark Peterson has asked for Sig’s blessing to marry his youngest daughter, Mandy. “My gut says they can wait… another ten years, for all I care,” Sig jokes. “But for now, crab takes precedence over romance.”

The first pots are pulled from the depths, but results are underwhelming. The anticipated 20- to 21-average haul isn’t materializing. “Oh no… that should’ve been better than that,” Sig mutters as the numbers continue to drop—15 crabs, then fives, fours, and sixes. What was supposed to be an easy final trip is rapidly turning into a grueling grind.

With fuel and expenses stacking up, each additional day at sea costs $3,000, putting increasing pressure on Sig to wrap up the season efficiently. “I’m trying to stay positive,” he says. “I promised myself at the beginning of the season to keep looking forward.”

Meanwhile, Clark is doing his best to impress, handling deck duties with focus and determination. “He’s solid, no games, just all about the deck and learning,” Sig acknowledges. “But I haven’t given him my decision yet, have I?”

As they approach their final string of pots, Sig is hopeful for a strong finish. “You never know. You can’t take this for granted. Coming up short means rebating, resetting, and starting over.”

Then, a glimmer of relief. The final pots emerge with significant hauls. “Oh yeah, that’s half full,” Sig exclaims, his excitement evident. “Nice big crab—makes me want to cry!” The last numbers come in strong: 64 big, clean crabs, bringing them closer to their season’s goal.

As the Northwestern turns toward the harbor, Sig is finally able to exhale. Against all odds, they’ve made it through yet another brutal season, proving once again why he remains one of the most respected captains in the fleet.