‘Deadliest Catch’ Boat Nearly Sinks — but What Happens Next Is a Total Game Changer for Captain Jake

Just one episode into Deadliest Catch Season 21, Captain Jake Anderson is already facing a myriad of problems. A failing ship, a dangerous ammonia leak, and a full-blown rescue mission in the remote waters off Adak Island threaten to shake the captain who lost everything last season, to his core, once again.

Captain Jake lost F/V Saga last season and, with a quota at the top of his mind in order to reach his monetary goal, his ambitious journey started off strong as his crew pulled in a nice-sized pot. But it all came crashing down when his new boat, the F/V Titan Explorer, experienced a shocking and sudden ammonia leak. This harrowing moment spelled disaster because not only were they further away from safety than ever before, but inhaling the toxin could be lethal.

‘Deadliest Catch’ Showcases Captain Jake’s Heroism

Upon learning of the leak, Captain Jake sprang into action as Titan Explorer essentially shut down, its lights going out, and called everyone to safety alongside him in the boat’s wheelhouse.

With the main engine and generator off, the pumps not working, and losing battery power swiftly, all he could do was wait for the ammonia levels to dissipate. He was fearful that the boat could capsize due to the wind gusts and strong currents. Plus, Adak Island is sparsely populated — so help isn’t nearby.

Thankfully, Captain Jake took every step to help his crew as the other captains raced into action to rescue Jake and his crew. Advised to get off the boat and abandon ship, Jake struggled, knowing that his entire season was on the line, but that meant nothing without a working boat. Despite an alliance forming against him by the entire fleet, Captain Keith Colburn and F/V Wizard came to the rescue. Despite his pride being bruised, it was the right decision. Plus, all worked out as his ship was able to vent the ammonia, allowing the fishing to begin again. And wouldn’t you believe it: they caught a massive pot of Alaskan King Crab.

Captain Jake Battles Adversity Season After Season

Between losing close friends, his boat, and nearly the entire crabbing season, this poor man simply can’t catch a break. What shines through is Jake’s hard work, perseverance, and dedication to making his family’s life better. From greenhorn to captain, his Deadliest Catch journey has been a heroic one. When others would likely quit, he persisted. Last season, when Captain Sig Hansen provided him with the solace of a temporary job, Jake focused on the future rather than whining about the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Saga’s downfall. It’s that true grit that defines his personality.

Yes, he wears his emotions on his sleeve, but the occasional outburst is due to his passion. Captain Jake is a natural-born leader and one of the series’ greatest stories. Though Captain Sig may be the face of the franchise, Captain Jake continues to prove that he is the heart. This season will be tough, but he knows how to overcome the impossible.