How Much Do Deckhands on ‘Deadliest Catch’ Actually Make? (2024)

If you're a fan of Deadliest Catch, then you already know that the Discovery show follows a cast of captains and their crew members as they embark on the dangerous career of Alaskan crab fishing.

But you’ve also likely wondered why anyone would put themselves in this much potential harm. The answer is easy: Money.

According to former stars and captains Gary and Kenny Ripka, the heads of the vessels can make quite a bit during one season.

“I’ve made upwards of $150,000 to $170,000 a year,” Kenny told People.

But what about the other employees on the boat? What’s in it for them? Well, that depends.

So, how much do deckhands on Deadliest Catch actually make?

Kenny explained that it varies year-to-year, particularly because they get paid depending on what they catch, not by a salary.

“For crab seasons, deckhands can typically make anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 for a couple months of work,” Kenny said.

Gary added, “My guys this year, I think for 6 weeks...they made $30,000.”

Not a bad haul, when you consider the short time period that encompasses. But there's a catch.

What’s stopping me from moving to Alaska ASAP?

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development elaborated a little further about a deckhand’s wage, and it doesn't sound quite as cut-and-dry as the Ripka's made it seem.

“Wages are often based on a share or percentage of harvest earnings,” the website reads. “Newcomer deckhand earnings range from 1.5% to 10% of the adjusted gross catch, depending on location and type of fishery and the skills the worker possesses.”

Some apparently offer $50-$100 day rates instead, which could end up being a safer bargain. Especially because the site notes, “Recent market conditions have caused some share rates to decline.”

Crew members are also required to supply their own commercial fishing licenses, which are around $60 for a resident and $165 for a nonresident. You’ll also likely have to purchase gloves, a sleeping bag, rubber boots, and other gear that can add up to nearly $400.

That’s quite an investment. What would I have to do every day?

The Department of Labor says employers look for those who:

• are available to work the full season or contract period
• are physically able to stand and work long hours and move heavy objects
• get along well with other people in remote and often wet and cold conditions
• are ready for hard work, are not chronic complainers, and have a positive attitude
• follow directions and abide by safety rules

Another presentation on the site says entry level deckhands often cook meals, plan menus, clean the boats, purchase groceries, and have strong abilities in navigation, first aid, and CPR.

So the breakdown is: You could make as high as $50K and as low as $15K in a short period of time, but you’ll have to work very hard to earn it. You know what? We think we’ll just stick to the couch after all.