TRAGIC MOMENTS That Almost Ended The Show On Deadliest Catch

The fishermen on Deadliest Catch have certainly had their share of high-risk moments, from illegal activities on the high seas to navigating dangerous waters and facing criminal threats. Crabbing is one of the most perilous jobs in the world, and Deadliest Catch captures not only the dangers of fishing but also the illegal side of the trade. In this video, we delve into some of the most intense and surprising illegal moments that have posed risks for the fishermen and how they managed to overcome them.

1. The Threat of Illegal Trawlers

One of the first incidents involves Sig Hansen, captain of the Northwestern, who notices a suspicious ship on his radar called “America Number One.” The trawler is sailing dangerously close to Sig’s fishing spot, which could destroy his $20,000 worth of gear. Sig tries unsuccessfully to communicate with the vessel to divert it from his territory, fearing that it might snag his pots. The crew works quickly and efficiently to ensure minimal loss of crabs, even though the trawler continues to tail them. Illegal fishing vessels like this are a common threat, as they often don’t follow regulations about staying away from crabbing zones.

2. Poachers Stealing Pots

In another tense situation, captains Keith Colburn of the Wizard and Rick Shelford of the Lucian Lady discover a strange vessel tailing them. These poachers are often on the lookout for an opportunity to steal fishing pots when the crews aren’t paying attention. The two captains, suspicious of the boat’s intentions, work together to shake the vessel by turning off their automatic identification systems and maneuvering away. As the poachers approach, the crews of the Wizard and Lucian Lady set off fireworks and turn on their lights to create the illusion of an ambush, scaring the poachers away. It’s a dramatic moment, but one that shows how resourceful these fishermen must be to protect their catch.

3. Russian Border Tensions

Keith Colburn and Captain Hillstrand of the Time Bandit find themselves fishing close to the Russian border, which is a dangerous and controversial area for crabbing. Rival Russian trawlers frequently fish in U.S. waters, and the crews of Wizard and Time Bandit are determined to protect their territories. However, a sudden shift in wind drifts the Wizard into Russian waters, putting the crew in a potentially explosive situation. As tensions rise, the crew spots a missile from the Russian side, but thankfully, it doesn’t hit their vessel. This encounter underscores the ever-present threat of international conflicts in the fishing industry.

4. Freighter Dangers and Disobedience

In another incident, Captain Jake of the Saga encounters a freighter dangerously close to his fishing gear. Despite multiple attempts to warn the freighter to change course, the vessel continues to approach. This kind of disregard for crabbing zones and failure to respond to radio calls is a significant concern for fishermen who rely on their gear remaining intact. In Jake’s case, it’s too late to save his pots, leading to a disappointing end to his season.

5. Collision at Sea

Keith Colburn faces another terrifying moment when a smaller fishing boat accidentally strays into the path of the Wizard, causing a collision. The potential damage to the vessel could have been catastrophic, and Keith works quickly to assess and manage the damage, ensuring the boat doesn’t take on water. Fortunately, the crew manages to seal the damage, but the moment serves as a reminder of the constant dangers of being on the water, especially when other boats fail to navigate carefully.

6. Drug Abuse and Crew Dangers

Lastly, the Deadliest Catch crew must also contend with personal issues that can threaten the safety and success of their expeditions. Captain Wild Bill faces a difficult situation with his deckhand, Nick, who has been slacking off. After a doctor’s visit, it’s revealed that Nick has been hiding his opioid addiction, which could not only put his own health at risk but also jeopardize the entire crew. Bill’s disappointment and anger are palpable when he discovers Nick’s drug stash, leading to his decision to remove Nick from the crew to protect everyone involved.

Conclusion

These illegal and dangerous moments in Deadliest Catch highlight not just the physical perils of the job but also the criminal threats and personal struggles that these fishermen face. From illegal trawlers to poaching attempts, collisions, and even drug abuse, the world of crabbing is fraught with risk. However, the resilience and quick thinking of the crew help them navigate these challenges, ensuring they continue to work and protect their livelihoods.