Edgar, the youngest Hansen brother on the Northwestern, featured on Discovery Channel’s #1 Show “Deadliest Catch”. Edgar began fishing at age 18 in 1987, and came into his own on deck after only a few seasons. He is known as the “deck boss” (an informal title given to the senior man on the fishing deck).
Edgar is one of the most talented men on deck according to Sig. When Edgar joined the Northwestern, it took a few years to climb the “ranks” and get full share pay, but with more pay comes more responsibility. He then was awarded the thankless job of being cook. He did a terrific job of keeping the crew well fed under all conditions and is known for preparing gourmet meals in record time. (Edgar says when your 250 miles offshore, anything on the table that is on time and warm is sometimes considered gourmet to these guys) Throwing down meals like stuffed pork chops or crab filled eggs benedict was always a captain’s favorite. The “staple” meal the boys enjoyed most was ribeye steaks and shrimp, only because it meant the trip was over and they were headed HOME!
Edgar has also become the chief engineer onboard during the past few years. He maintains all of the machinery onboard including the main and auxiliary engines, hydraulic systems, sea water pumps and fuel systems. He is the “GO-TO” guy on deck, if there’s a problem the guys bring it to his attention either for advice or for him to fix. Edgar says that these boats are like floating cities, your dependent on your own systems and “know how” to stay alive. These boats need Doctors, Cooks, Mechanics, Electricians, Therapists at times, Firemen, Mothers, and all the men have mastered these areas which he says makes his boat run smoother- longer-and safer. “There isn’t anything we can’t do, or fix. If we can’t fix it, GET A BIGGER HAMMER!”
