F/V Northwestern: The Legendary Crabber Conquering the Bering Sea with Family, Courage, and Resilience !
F/V Northwestern: A Living Legend of the Bering Sea Crab Fisheries
F/V Northwestern is not just a fishing vessel; it is a symbol of resilience, family, and courage amidst the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea. Widely known through the reality television show Deadliest Catch on Discovery Channel, the boat has appeared in every season of the show, making it an inseparable part of life at sea in Alaska.
Current Status (2025)
As of 2025, F/V Northwestern is still an active fishing vessel operating in the Bering Sea. The boat specializes in catching various species of crabs, including red king crab, tanner crab, and opilio crab, and also participates in the transportation of salmon and cod to processing plants. Led by Captain Sig Hansen and supported by family members, the vessel continues to maintain a high level of performance and safety on the water.
Historic Fishing Expeditions
Throughout its operational history, F/V Northwestern has participated in numerous memorable fishing seasons. One of the standout moments was during the summer of 2025 when the boat embarked on a red king crab fishing trip near Adak Island. This region, remote and less exploited, made the journey particularly special and challenging. Despite facing numerous hardships, the vessel successfully completed its mission with impressive results.
The Hansen Family and Crew
The Hansen family has been tied to F/V Northwestern since the boat was launched in 1977. Captain Sig Hansen, the eldest son, has steered the vessel through many fishing seasons. His brothers, Edgar and Norman, also play integral roles on the crew, with Edgar serving as the deck boss and Norman as the chief engineer. Sig’s daughter, Mandy Hansen, has been trained to become a backup captain and is now operating the boat during salmon seasons.
Challenges and Losses
While successful, F/V Northwestern has not been without its challenges. One of the most heartbreaking events was the passing of veteran deckhand Nick Mavar Jr. in 2024 following an emergency surgery. Prior to his passing, he had filed a lawsuit against the production team over inadequate medical planning during the COVID-19 season. This loss left a significant void in the crew and served as a reminder of the inherent risks that come with life on the sea.
Role in Deadliest Catch
F/V Northwestern is the only boat to appear in every season of Deadliest Catch and even in the pilot episode of America’s Deadliest Season. The show not only showcases the difficult nature of the fishing profession but also highlights the familial bonds, sacrifices, and bravery of those working at sea.
