The treacherous waters of the Bering Sea have tested Captain Keith Colburn for decades, but it was an invisible enemy that recently grounded the Deadliest Catch legend. In early 2021, Colburn, skipper of the F/V Wizard, contracted COVID-19, a battle that left even the seasoned captain struggling to breathe.
Known for his no-nonsense leadership and fearless approach to crab fishing, Colburn faced an unfamiliar challenge: the isolation, fatigue, and anxiety brought on by a severe viral infection. Hospitalized for over a week, he also battled COVID-related pneumonia, requiring supplemental oxygen even after leaving the hospital.
“This was something I never imagined I would encounter,” Colburn admitted to Nikki Swift. “I pride myself on being Mr. Safety… except when it comes to my own body.”
Fans across the globe followed the captain’s ordeal closely. Colburn used his experience to stress the seriousness of the virus and encourage vaccination. In a heartfelt Twitter post, he wrote: “COVID is real. I’m sharing my story in the hopes that it may help you take actions to steer clear of this virus.”
The road to recovery was slow and challenging. Colburn experienced lingering fatigue, brain fog, and ongoing breathing issues—symptoms consistent with “long COVID.” For someone whose job demands peak physical and mental performance, the setbacks were daunting.
“There were days when I didn’t know if I could go back out there,” he confessed. “I love what I do, but COVID made me wonder if I could keep pushing through.”
Support from his family and crew was vital. “Fishing is my life, but my family and health come first,” Colburn said. “I knew that if I didn’t take care of myself, I wouldn’t be able to get back on that boat with the guys who motivate me every day.”
After several months of rest, rehabilitation, and cautious reintegration into physical activity, Colburn returned to the Wizard and the Bering Sea. Though more mindful of his physical limits, he resumed his captain’s duties with renewed strength and a reflective outlook.
“The sea doesn’t care if you’re tired or sick. It doesn’t wait for anyone,” he said. “But I’ve learned to listen to my body more now—to know when to push and when to pull back.”
Colburn’s journey has deepened his connection with his crew and fans, highlighting not only the physical dangers of crab fishing but also the emotional and mental resilience required to overcome life-altering challenges.
“I think we’ve all learned something through this,” he reflected. “You can be tough, you can be strong, but that doesn’t mean you’re invincible. COVID taught me to be more grateful—for the small things, the people around me, and the life I get to live. I’m lucky to be back on that boat.”
