A Routine Voyage Turns Tragic

On February 14, 1991, Donald Smith, a 52-year-old fisherman from Ketchikan, Alaska, embarked on what was expected to be a routine fishing trip aboard his vessel, the F/V Thunderbird. The journey took a tragic turn when the boat sank approximately one mile north of Cape Ommaney. Despite search efforts, Smith was never found and is presumed to have drowned.

The Harsh Realities of Alaskan Fishing

Fishing in Alaska is not just an occupation; it's a way of life that comes with inherent risks. The waters around Ketchikan are known for their unpredictability, with sudden weather changes and rough seas posing constant threats to fishermen. The loss of the F/V Thunderbird serves as a stark reminder of these dangers....Read More