What Happened to Hannes Huswick from Deadliest Catch? F/V Saga Crewman Dies at 34

Hannes M. Huswick served as a deckhand and deck boss aboard the F/V Saga, appearing on Deadliest Catch during Seasons 12 and 13. He was featured in at least nine episodes between 2016 and 2017, taking on the physically demanding and high-risk tasks that define life at sea. His time aboard the Saga placed him squarely in the heart of some of the fleet’s most memorable moments, including the episode titled “Last Damn Arctic Storm” (Season 13, Episode 19), which aired on August 29, 2017.

In that episode, Huswick sustained a boxer’s fracture after a freezer door slammed shut on his hand. Despite the injury, he continued hauling and rebaiting pots, contributing to the crew’s push toward their 300,000-pound crab quota. The catch was a success, and each deckhand went home with approximately $32,000—one of the season’s strongest outcomes.

Tragically, Hannes passed away unexpectedly from heart failure on August 14, 2017, just weeks before it aired. He was 34. According to a GoFundMe campaign created on behalf of his family, he is survived by his wife Sarah Fithian and their five-year-old daughter Sienna. The fundraiser was set up to help ease the sudden financial burden his family faced.

A memorial titled the “Celebration of Hannes’ Life” was held on September 3, 2017, near Lake Stevens, Washington. Organized by Sarah, Ingi, and Jen Huswick, the gathering was informal and heartfelt, hosted at a lakeside cabana with a potluck meal and shared memories. Over 100 people attended. Guests were encouraged to bring food, photos, and stories—simple offerings that helped remember Hannes in a setting filled with friends and family.

Tributes extended beyond land. Later that year, a sea burial was organized by friends and fellow crew members, including Sean Dunlop, a longtime associate of the Sagga crew. Though not a cast regular, Dunlop had deep ties to those on board. In a message shared publicly, he reflected on the evening: “Paying respects to dear friend and crewman Hannes Huswick… Sea burial for family is always hard… R.I.P my friend.” Sarah and Sienna joined the memorial virtually. The Icelandic flag was raised—a nod to Hannes’s heritage—and the moment was shared among those who had worked alongside him.

Born in 1983, Hannes Huswick brought years of practical experience and focus to every job he undertook. His role on Deadliest Catch added his name to a long line of fishermen who brought visibility to the challenges and camaraderie of life at sea. His contribution to the Saga‘s success and the broader fishing community continues to be remembered—not only through footage but in the voices and memories of those who stood beside him on deck.

As of 2025, Sarah and Sienna Huswick have continued to move forward in life. Sienna, now a growing student and active cheerleader, has been seen participating in school events, with Sarah proudly supporting her daughter. The strength and presence they share today reflect the foundation Hannes helped build—one of dedication, care, and quiet resilience.