The 20th season of Deadliest Catch is gearing up with the reopening of the Red King Crab fishery in Alaska. With millions of dollars at stake, captains are facing a competitive derby-style race against time and other fishermen. Captain Sig Hansen is a familiar face in this high-stakes fishing environment, having been on the show since the beginning. Adding to the nostalgic start of the milestone year is the return of Jake Anderson aboard the F/V Northwestern.
Hansen offered Anderson a lifeline when he found himself without a vessel just days before the season was set to begin. Anderson, who captained the F/V Saga for a decade and had ownership in it, started his journey on the Northwestern almost 18 years ago.
We caught up with Hansen to discuss the show’s longevity and the challenges faced by his crew in this season.
How does it feel to be part of Season 20 of Deadliest Catch after being there from the start?
Sig Hansen: Hitting Season 10 was flattering, but reaching Season 20 feels like a common practice now. I feel like it’s expected by the fans. The time has flown by so fast, and I am amazed at how far we’ve come because of the audience’s interest. It’s truly awe-inspiring.
Discovery Channel
Reflecting on your journey on the show, what stands out to you?
Looking back, the transformations we’ve gone through and the challenges we’ve faced are remarkable. From losing Captain Phil Harris to my own heart attack, these life-changing experiences have been captured on television. One moment that resonates with me is with Mandy, my daughter who is part of the crew and aspiring to be a captain. When she was a young girl and the show first aired, we didn’t have cell phones. We’ve evolved from radio communication to satellite phones. I remember her watching the show and expressing concern about the weather in Alaska, which left a lasting impact on me. It made me emotional because she shouldn’t have to worry about those things at her age. Her desire to be on the boat and follow in my footsteps has been a fulfilling journey.
Was there a moment when you realized the show’s immense popularity?
Participating in Cars 2 was a significant milestone that highlighted the show’s reach. Meeting various celebrities and engaging in fundraising events opened up new avenues I never imagined. Our popularity has enabled us to raise funds for charitable causes, which has been a humbling experience. It’s heartwarming to see younger fans requesting selfies for their grandparents, reminding me of the show’s broad appeal across different age groups.
Mandy Hansen and Sig Hansen standing in front of the Northwestern at dock in 2019. (Discovery Channel)
With the Red King Crab fishery reopening, how does the added intensity impact your experience?
This year felt different due to the derby-style fishery, which heightened the mental challenges. The competitive nature of the derby pushed us to our limits as we competed against other vessels for a share of the catch. It was a test of our skills and determination, especially with regulatory bodies monitoring our performance closely. We had to work tirelessly to keep the fishery open by proving our capabilities and showcasing high catch numbers per unit.
Can you comment on your decision to assist Jake at the beginning of the season?
Helping Jake was a natural choice for me. He has been under my mentorship since he was young, and I have watched him grow and excel in his role over the years. His determination and passion for fishing are commendable, and I am proud of his progress. Stepping in to support him when he was in need was the least I could do to ensure his continued success. It’s all part of the journey in this industry—helping each other move forward.
What are your thoughts on other captains like Jonathan Hillstrand coming out of retirement and the competitive dynamics with Jack Bunnell?
Although Jonathan talks about retiring, I doubt he will ever fully step away from fishing. It’s a love-hate relationship for him, and I see him coming back time and again. Similarly, I acknowledge my own tendencies to return to the sea despite claiming retirement. Jack is a young and ambitious captain, still learning the ropes of the trade. Deception and strategy play a crucial role in fishing, and Jack will eventually develop those skills through experience. Each captain brings a unique perspective to the industry, and we all learn and grow from each other’s journeys.
What aspect of this season are you most excited for viewers to see?
I am thrilled for viewers to witness the intense, aggressive derby fishing we engaged in this season. The sheer determination and work ethic displayed by the crew showcase the essence of our profession. It’s a reminder that success in this industry is never guaranteed and requires continuous effort and resilience.
Deadliest Catch, Season 20 premieres on Tuesday, June 11, at 8/7c on Discovery Channel
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