Don Brewer wiki/bio, age, net worth, divorce, current wife, kids.

From noodling giant catfish in Oklahoma to commanding his own boat in the Louisiana bayou, Don Brewer’s rise on History Channel’s Swamp People is a testament to grit, guts, and innovation. Best known for his marshmallow-baiting debut and fearless swamp tactics, Don quickly won over fans and earned the respect of fellow hunters. But there’s much more to this gator hunter than what meets the eye.

Off the screen, Don is a dedicated family man. He shares his life and business ventures with his wife, Michelle Austin Brewer, who plays a central role in managing their restaurant, Katt Daddy’s Cove. The couple has children, and Don often celebrates his family and their support both in business and personal achievements.

This in-depth biography traces Brewer’s journey from his rural upbringing and hand-fishing legacy on Mudcats, to becoming one of Swamp People’s most inventive and dependable cast members. Whether you’re searching for Don Brewer’s background, his career highlights, his role as a husband and father, or what makes him a fan favorite in the swamp hunting world—this guide has it all.

Early Life & Education

Don Brewer was born on June 23, 1971 in Canadian, Oklahoma, a small town located in the southeastern part of the state. Raised in a rural setting, Brewer spent much of his early life outdoors, where fishing, hiking, and working with his hands were part of daily routine rather than recreation.

In 2025, Brewer publicly acknowledged the passing of his mother, sharing a message and photos from her later years. The tribute offered a brief but personal glimpse into his family background during his years in the public eye.

He completed his secondary education at Canadian High School in his hometown before enrolling at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton. Choosing to remain in-state allowed him to stay connected to his community while continuing his education in a more formal setting.

While there is no record of a family tradition in alligator hunting, Brewer’s early exposure to nature played a key role in shaping his practical skills. Through time spent outdoors, he gradually developed an interest in hunting and learned on his own through hands-on experience. These foundational skills, though not originally intended for television, would later support his role on the History Channel’s Swamp People.

The Man Behind the Gators

For viewers of Swamp People, Don Brewer may have seemed like a new face when he first appeared in Season 11 of the hit History Channel series. But to those who know the swamps—and the Oklahoma backroads—Don was already a seasoned outdoorsman, ready for the national stage. Since his debut on January 23, 2020, Brewer has evolved from a supporting cast member into one of the show’s most memorable figures.

Swamp People, the History Channel’s long-running reality series, offers a gritty, front-row look at life in Louisiana’s Atchafalaya Basin, where generations of hunters brave the swamps during a high-stakes 30-day alligator season. The show captures not only the physical challenges of gator hunting but also the deep-rooted culture and family bonds that define life in the bayou.

Since its debut, the series has introduced audiences to a colorful roster of swamp veterans, including  Troy Landry, Terral Evans, Willie Edwards, Daniel Edgar, Ashley Jones, Big Tee, Dusty Crum, Liz Cavalier, Ronnie Adams. Among these larger-than-life personalities, Don Brewer carved out his own path—bringing Oklahoma ingenuity, fresh ideas, and unwavering grit to the swamp. His journey stands out not only for his bold tactics but for how quickly he earned his place among the legends of Swamp People.

Before joining Swamp People, Brewer made an uncredited appearance on Swamp Mysteries with Troy Landry, a fitting prelude to the swamp-life legacy he would go on to build.

Swamp People Debut and Creative Tactics

Don Brewer made his official debut in Swamp People Season 11, Episode 4, titled “Mystery in the Bayou.” Although new to gator hunting, Don’s quick thinking and fearless energy immediately stood out. Paired with veteran hunter Jacob Landry, Don surprised everyone by using marshmallows from their snack stash as gator bait—a move inspired by techniques used on gator farms. The unorthodox method worked, leading to a successful catch and setting the tone for his inventive approach.

Later in the same episode, when their only treble hook got snagged mid-hunt, Don didn’t hesitate to dive into the murky waters and retrieve it—despite the danger of a wounded gator nearby. Jacob, initially skeptical, was both impressed and relieved, remarking that Don might be a mix of crazy and genius.

Don continued to impress throughout the season. In Episode 6, titled “Friday the 13th,” he and Jacob hit a streak of bad luck but kept pushing through unpredictable swamp conditions. By Episode 9, “One Man Army,” the duo fished deep into West Grand Lake in search of the biggest bull gators. And in the season finale, Episode 14 “Final Showdown,” Don and Jacob were back in action, chasing down monsters in deep waters as the season drew to a close.

With each episode, Don proved that his instincts and adaptability were just as valuable as experience. His creative problem-solving and raw determination earned him more than just screen time—they earned him respect.

More Than a Swamper

Don Brewer doesn’t stop when the cameras do. Off-screen, his life is just as action-packed. Bitten by raccoons, skunks, snakes, and beavers (yes, really), he wears his scars with pride. He races motorcycles, conquers muddy tracks, and hits the mountain trails on his bike—because, for Don, danger is just part of the adventure.

But there’s a softer, grounded side too.

A Businessman at Heart

When he’s not wrangling gators, Don is running businesses back home in Oklahoma. He owns Katt Daddy’s Cove, a popular bar and grill located on Lakeshore Drive in Eufaula. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a community hangout filled with darts, pool tables, karaoke, and Texas Hold ’Em poker nights. His wife, Michelle Austin Brewer, manages the day-to-day operations, turning the business into a family success story.

In Oklahoma City, Don also runs Don’s Plumbing Inc., a trusted plumbing company originally established in 1965. As a Master Plumber, he takes pride in the trade, often posting updates from job sites on social media. Whether it’s fixing a leak or mentoring apprentices, Don brings the same work ethic to plumbing as he does to the swamps.

Early Glimpses on TV

Long before he became a regular on Swamp People, Don had dipped his toes into television. He made small appearances on Dirty Jobs—both the 2003 mini-series and the 2006 full show—playing himself and giving audiences an early look at his no-nonsense, hands-on approach.

The Mudcats Chapter

Don’s first major TV spotlight came with History Channel’s Mudcats (2012–2013), a series that explored the intense, muddy world of hand-fishing. While Don may now be best known for his gator hunting on Swamp People, his real foundational skills lie in hand fishing. Known as “Katt Daddy,” he was revered as one of Oklahoma’s most competitive noodlers, often diving into murky waters to wrestle massive flathead catfish using nothing but his bare hands.

In one standout moment, Don dominated the Okie Noodling Invitational Championship with a 54.80-pound catch—bringing his tournament total to over 105 pounds. These feats cemented his legacy in the hand-fishing world and earned him both respect and admiration from fellow noodlers and viewers alike. For fans of Mudcats, Don wasn’t just a contestant—he was a legend in motion, fearless, driven, and always willing to risk it all in the name of tradition.

Net Worth

Through a combination of swamp hunting, television, and small business ventures, Don Brewer has carved out a respectable living. With his hands in everything from alligator lines to plumbing pipes, Don’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and good old-fashioned hustle. As of today, his net worth is estimated at $400,000—a fitting number for a man who built his career one muddy bootstep at a time.

Don Brewer’s Personal Life: His Wife Michelle and Their Blended Family

Don Brewer has been married to Michelle Austin Brewer since May 4, 2019. They live in Newalla, Oklahoma, while Michelle is originally from Canadian, Oklahoma. Though they don’t have children together, their life is filled with love, fun, and everyday adventures. Don often refers to Michelle as his “ride or die” and isn’t shy about showing his appreciation for her. On her birthday in November 2024, he called her his “best friend” and said, “Without you would be a struggle in my life.” In another post from August 2023, he thanked her for standing by him, writing, “Didn’t say great man cause I know better but u bring the best out in me.”

Michelle has shared similar love and admiration for Don over the years. In a touching post from 2018, she reflected on a year full of memories—starting businesses, traveling, welcoming a grandchild, getting a puppy, dressing up for the holidays, and just enjoying life together. She thanked Don for making her life “exhausting, fun and amazing,” showing how much joy and adventure they bring into each other’s lives.

Michelle also has three children from a previous relationship, and she often shares her pride in them. In February 2024, she celebrated their birthdays with a photo, mentioning her son Dasyn turning 21. Later that year, in August, she posted about her daughter Jilyenne McIntosh starting her sophomore year at the University of Central Oklahoma. These moments highlight how important family is to Michelle, and how Don is part of that extended love and support.

Don is also a proud father. From his earlier marriage to Christine Brewer, he has two daughters—Katie Brewer and Shelby Echelle. He shares a close bond with them. On Shelby birthday in 2021, he wrote, “Happy birthday honey. You will always be daddy’s little girl,” along with several pictures of their time together. Even though his daughters stay mostly out of the public eye, Don’s posts clearly show how much they mean to him.

Wiki/Bio Facts

Full name	Don Brewer
Age	53 years old
Date of Birth	June 23, 1971
Place of Birth	Canadian, Oklahoma, U.S
Residence	Newalla, Oklahoma
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Caucasian
Zodiac	Cancer
Religion	Christianity
Gender	Male
Sexuality	Straight
Education	Canadian High School
Profession	Television Personality, Gator Hunter
Net worth	$400,000
Marital Status	Married
Wife	Michelle Austin Brewer
Divorce (yes/no)	Yes
Ex-wife	Christine Brewer
Children	Katie Brewer, Shelby Echelle
Height	N/A
Weight	N/A
Siblings	N/A
Parents	N/A
Social Media Handle	Facebook

Don Brewer: Swamp People Journey from Greenhorn to Gator-Hunting Innovator (Seasons 11–16)

Early Career and Introduction to Swamp Life

Don Brewer, a native of Oklahoma, joined the cast of Swamp People on the History Channel during Season 11. Known for his fearless personality and willingness to experiment with new techniques, Don made an immediate impact. In his very first appearance, he famously suggested using marshmallows as bait—an unconventional method that surprisingly paid off. From the beginning, it was clear that Don Brewer brought more than enthusiasm; he brought ingenuity.

Don Brewer’s Journey in Swamp People Season 12 (2021) – Rise of a Swamp Innovator

Returning to the Swamp People cast on the History Channel in 2021, Don Brewer quickly built upon his bold debut from Season 11. Known for his Oklahoma grit and fearless experimentation, Don showcased remarkable growth throughout Swamp People Season 12.

In Episode 5 (Heat Wave), Brewer invented a slow-drip hydration device to keep chicken bait moist during a record-breaking heatwave—an inventive solution that ensured Jacob Landry’s bait remained fresh in the harsh Louisiana sun.

By Episode 8 (Day of the Deckhand), Don took to the swamp solo, taking on the risk of lone alligator hunting—an undeniable mark of his growing skills as a survivalist and swamp tracker.

In Episode 13 (Gators on Ice), Brewer and Jacob faced off with a dangerous gator during a sudden cold snap. Their coordinated effort and quick thinking in the icy conditions reflected their deepening trust and professionalism.

Despite the progress, Season 12 ended with a reality check in Episode 16 (Bayou Blowout), where Don and Jacob made a costly mistake that jeopardized their tag-out. It reminded fans that even seasoned gator hunters face hard lessons in the wild.

By the end of Swamp People Season 12, Don Brewer had established himself not just as a risk-taker, but as a full-fledged innovator in the bayou—capable of handling solo missions and problem-solving under pressure.

Don Brewer’s Evolution in Swamp People Seasons 13 to 15 (2022–2024)

From 2022 to 2024, Don Brewer’s role on the Swamp People TV series evolved dramatically, turning him into one of the show’s standout personalities. His appearances during Swamp People Seasons 13 to 15 on the History Channel highlighted his growth into a confident, strategic, and highly inventive alligator hunter.

In Swamp People Season 13, which began in early 2022, Don and Jacob Landry returned to find their favorite honey hole blocked by trees in Episode 4 (Blast in the Bayou)—fallout from Hurricane Ida. The duo was forced to rethink strategies and navigate a storm-altered terrain. In Episode 9 (Swamp Professor), Don took the helm with a new deckhand named “Black Rambo,” marking a pivotal moment as he stepped into leadership. By Episode 11 (Crawfish Monster), Brewer flexed his sniper skills, and in Episode 13 (Swamp Juice), he mixed his own bait—revealing the now-signature Don Brewer trait: creative problem solving.

The momentum continued in Swamp People Season 14 (2023). In Episode 6 (Pirate Cursed Gators), Don and Jacob ventured into a notorious pirate swamp, facing the unknown with bold determination. Cold weather tested their limits in Episode 12 (Flash Frozen Gators), where Don brought back his bait invention to attract reluctant gators. In Episode 14 (The Marina Monster), Don’s “hustle” was highlighted, cementing his role as the team’s go-to problem solver.

In Swamp People Season 15 (2024), Don Brewer’s swamp legacy hit new heights. In Episode 5 (Come Hell or Low Water), he and Jacob navigated deep bayous during a historic drought, confronting a bloodthirsty cannibal gator. In Episode 7 (Chasing a Legend), the duo explored remote backwater ponds via airboat for the first time, showcasing their relentless drive to outwit elusive gators.

In Episode 9 (Gator Stakes), a friendly wager with Anna put Don and Ashley in a race for gator count supremacy. Though Don kept the bet secret from Jacob, a streak of bad luck raised the stakes. Then in Episode 14 (Boom or Bust), Brewer revealed a new gator-hunting invention he believed could transform the trade—a classic Brewer move. Finally, in the finale (Legacy on the Line), Jacob and Don split up to run lines and snipe in different areas, proving Don had earned the trust to operate independently on the final—and most crucial—day of the season.

Don Brewer in Swamp People Season 16 (2025)

In Swamp People Season 16 (2025), Don Brewer stepped up to his most challenging role yet. In Episode 1 (Racing the Storm), Don took command of his own boat, a major milestone in his swamp career. Under the looming threat of powerful storms and Troy Landry’s high expectations, Don faced immense pressure with a greenhorn deckhand by his side. This test of leadership marked a defining moment as he transitioned from innovative deckhand to full-fledged swamp captain.

By Episode 5 (The Aftermath), Hurricane Francine had devastated much of the bayou, and Don—now teamed with Calum—found themselves navigating a dangerous sinkhole while racing to fill tags. The environmental chaos tested their adaptability and resilience.

In Episode 9 (Catch and Cook), Don Brewer was under immense pressure after being called out directly by Troy Landry for falling short in size and quantity of gators. Determined to prove himself, Don set a bold goal: to catch gators averaging nine feet or more.

Early attempts yielded disappointing results—smaller “bait bandits” that barely measured six feet. Frustrated by wasted tags and time, Don tapped into his problem-solving mindset. He introduced a custom knot-tying trick on the lines, adding resistance to the clothespin setup, hoping it would discourage smaller gators from tripping the bait while giving bigger gators time to strike.

The result? A ten-footer soon landed in the boat, followed by an 11-foot beast—confirming the knot trick’s effectiveness. Despite a few unavoidable small catches, the adjusted method allowed Don and Calum to surpass their size target and fill the boat with valuable “money gators.”

The success in this episode not only redeemed Don in the eyes of Troy but also proved once again that Don Brewer’s innovation and swamp sense were key assets in the world of professional gator hunting. until they rolled out a new knot-tying technique—hoping to land bigger gators and reclaim their standing in Troy Landry’s eyes. It was another example of Don’s trademark creativity under pressure.

The stakes heightened in Episode 11 (Swamp Showdown), where Don and Calum went head-to-head with other Landry crews, hunting in the unfamiliar terrain of Coulon Creek. Despite their underdog status, they worked hard to prove their value as dependable newcomers in a high-pressure competition.

In Episode 13 (Silent Assassins), Don and Calum encountered suspected poachers tampering with their lines, forcing them to think fast and adapt their tactics. Even amidst sabotage, Brewer kept his cool—demonstrating not just leadership but swamp smarts under duress.

Season 16 solidified Don Brewer’s evolution from a marshmallow-wielding greenhorn to a seasoned captain facing down hurricanes, saboteurs, and expectations. His determination, creativity, and calm under pressure have cemented him as a cornerstone of Swamp People‘s modern era.