Don Brewer and Calum Turn Things Around with Clever Knot Strategy | Swamp People “Catch and Cook”

In Swamp People Season 16, Episode 9, titled “Catch and Cook”, which aired on Feb 27, 2025, new captain Don Brewer sets out with deckhand Calum to prove they can compete with the veteran hunters. After falling behind in previous hunts, Don is determined to improve his team’s performance and silence any doubts — especially from Troy Landry, whose earlier critique still stings.

Troy expressed concern over Don’s performance, stating, “Nothing but little ones. Very disappointing.”

Small Gators, Big Frustration

Despite their drive, the morning brings little success. Their first major pull turns out to be a six-footer, far below their goal of a nine-foot average. Frustrated, Don notes that they’re burning through bait and wasting tags on what he calls “bait bandits.”

“We need money gators in this boat. All we’re doing is donating chicken.”

The Knot Trick

To shift the tide, Don and Calum try a new knot-tying technique Don learned from a conversation at Duffy’s. By tying a resistance knot behind the clothespin, they hope smaller gators won’t trip the line, allowing only larger gators to bite.

“It’s gonna be a little more time consuming, but if it can catch bigger gators, I’m all about it.”

The idea is simple: the knot adds tension so the bait won’t easily fall unless a stronger, heavier gator pulls it.

The Payoff: 10- and 11-Footers

The tactic pays off. Soon, the duo wrestles in a 10-foot gator, followed by an 11-footer that helps push their average over the nine-foot mark. Don credits the knot with the win.

“Now, had a knot in the line… is it a coincidence that it worked? Well, maybe.”

The innovation breathes new life into their season and gives Don and Calum the boost they needed to compete among the top swampers.

“We filling them things left and right today. Knot work, baby,” Calum says with excitement.

Also Read: Jacob Landry and Little Willie Win Big in Troy Landry’s Gator Contest | Swamp People S16E11 “Swamp Showdown”