Josh Harris, the Alaskan fisherman and television personality, has carved out his own path in the world of commercial fishing and reality TV. As of 2025, the 41-year-old captain holds an estimated net worth of $800,000, built through years of hard work on the dangerous seas and appearances on the hit Discovery Channel series Deadliest Catch.
How Did Josh Harris Get His Start?
Born into a family with strong ties to Alaskan crab fishing, Josh Harris is the son of the late Captain Phil Harris, a legendary figure in the commercial fishing world. Growing up around the docks and boats, Josh naturally gravitated toward the family business.
Before taking over his father’s iconic vessel, the Cornelia Marie, Josh gained valuable experience working on another famed ship, the Time Bandit. His initial appearance on Deadliest Catch during the show’s eighth season introduced him to a national audience. At the time, Josh was known more for his chatter about wanting his own boat than for taking on major responsibilities.
However, as seasons progressed, Josh transformed his work ethic, proving himself to the crew and viewers alike. His journey from an inexperienced deckhand to a serious and committed fisherman set the stage for the next phase of his career.
What Happened After Captain Phil Harris’ Death?
The sudden death of Phil Harris in 2010 was a devastating blow to the Harris family and the Deadliest Catch community. Josh and his younger brother, Jake Harris, tried to keep the Cornelia Marie afloat both figuratively and literally.
Unfortunately, the aftermath was anything but smooth. Financial struggles, management issues, and costly repairs plagued the vessel. Without their father’s guiding hand, Josh and Jake faced significant hurdles, including coping with Jake’s battle with substance abuse.
The boat was pulled out of service for several seasons, and its future seemed uncertain. However, Josh was determined not to let his father’s legacy fade away. Through perseverance, resourcefulness, and a three-year process of rebuilding and repairing the Cornelia Marie, Josh brought the vessel back into operation.
By 2013, Josh had earned his captain’s license, officially becoming the skipper of the Cornelia Marie for the crab fishing season, fulfilling a dream he had spoken about years earlier.
How Did Josh Harris Expand His Career Beyond Fishing?
While crab fishing remained his primary occupation, Josh Harris expanded his career in other directions as well. Alongside his brother Jake, he co-authored a deeply personal book titled “Captain Phil Harris: The Legendary Crab Fisherman, Our Hero, Our Dad.” Written with the assistance of journalists Steve Springer and Blake Chavez, the book offered fans an intimate glimpse into their father’s life, character, and impact on the world of commercial fishing.
This project allowed Josh to share his family’s story beyond the television screens, creating a lasting tribute to Captain Phil and strengthening his bond with fans who admired the late fisherman.
What About Josh Harris’ Personal Life?
Off the deck, Josh’s personal life has also seen major developments. On March 7, Josh welcomed his daughter, Kinsley Ella Harris, into the world, stepping into the role of fatherhood while simultaneously rebuilding the Cornelia Marie.
Balancing the demands of running a fishing vessel and raising a child has added new dimensions to Josh’s life. Parenthood has provided him with a fresh sense of purpose, further motivating him to create a stable and prosperous future for his family.
How Has Deadliest Catch Contributed to Josh Harris’ Net Worth?
Josh Harris’ participation in Deadliest Catch has played a crucial role in boosting his public profile and earnings. As one of the featured captains on the long-running series, he has benefited from reality TV exposure, which often includes appearance fees, endorsements, and increased opportunities for other ventures like book deals and merchandise.
Deadliest Catch is renowned for its authentic portrayal of the perils and rewards of Alaskan crab fishing. Josh’s candid storytelling and emotional connection to his father’s legacy resonated with fans, making him one of the more relatable and admired figures on the show.
While his $800,000 net worth may seem modest compared to mainstream Hollywood celebrities, it represents significant success in the world of commercial fishing — an industry known for its volatility and risks.
What Challenges Has Josh Harris Faced?
Josh Harris’ journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Managing the Cornelia Marie’s maintenance and operations has been a constant financial and logistical challenge. Furthermore, dealing with family struggles, including Jake’s well-documented substance abuse issues, placed additional emotional burdens on Josh’s shoulders.
Despite these obstacles, Josh has continued to demonstrate resilience. His commitment to preserving his father’s legacy, running the Cornelia Marie, and providing for his young daughter highlights his growth as both a captain and a man.
Final Thoughts: Josh Harris’ Net Worth and His Future
In 2025, with an estimated net worth of $800,000, Josh Harris stands as a testament to perseverance, loyalty, and hard-earned success. His transformation from a talkative deckhand to a respected captain mirrors the broader themes of family, redemption, and determination that define Deadliest Catch.
With the Cornelia Marie thriving once again and new chapters unfolding in his personal and professional life, Josh Harris remains an inspiring figure — not just for fans of the show, but for anyone who understands the challenges of living up to a family legacy while forging their own path.