Nickola Mavar Jr

Nickola "Nick" Mavar Jr. (1964 - 2023) was an American fisherman and television personality, best known for his role as a deckhand on the F/V Northwestern in Discovery Channel's reality series, Deadliest Catch. Mavar appeared on the show for over 15 years, becoming a fan favorite due to his calm demeanor and dedication to his work.
====Early Life====
Nick Mavar Jr. was born in 1964. Little is known about his early life, but he eventually followed in the footsteps of many in his community, joining the ranks of commercial fishermen.
====Career====
Deadliest Catch
Mavar joined the cast of Deadliest Catch during the show’s second season in 2006. He worked as a deckhand on the F/V Northwestern, under the command of Captain Sig Hansen. His responsibilities included maintaining the vessel and its mechanical equipment, a role he fulfilled diligently across 98 episodes. His time on the Northwestern was marked by the camaraderie and high-stakes environment that the show became known for.
In addition to his work on Deadliest Catch, Mavar captained his family's salmon boat, the Miss Colleen, during the summer season in Bristol Bay, Alaska. His even-tempered personality provided a balance to the often wild antics of his crewmates, making him a steady presence on the show.
====Legal Issues====
2016 Arrest
In March 2016, Mavar was arrested in Anacortes, Washington, on suspicion of assault and violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act. He was released from the Skagit County Jail the following day on his own recognizance and had additional cases pending in local courts.
Lawsuit Against Captain Sig Hansen
In December 2022, Mavar filed a lawsuit against Captain Sig Hansen and the F/V Northwestern, seeking $1 million in damages. The lawsuit claimed that the crew's inadequate medical plan during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a delay in diagnosing his appendicitis, which subsequently ruptured and revealed a cancerous tumor. The legal battle involved claims of negligence and inadequate medical care, with the case ongoing at the time of his death.
====Personal Life====
Mavar was married and had children, although he often found it difficult to be away from his family due to the demands of his fishing career. In 2021, he reportedly remarried. He was known for his dedication to both his professional and personal life, balancing his time at sea with his responsibilities as a family man.
====Death====
Nick Mavar Jr. passed away on June 14, 2023, at the age of 59, following a medical emergency in Naknek, Alaska. His death was confirmed by Bristol Bay Borough Police Chief Jeff Elbie, and he was pronounced dead after being transported to a medical facility. His passing was a significant loss to the fishing community and fans of Deadliest Catch.
====Legacy====
Mavar's long tenure on Deadliest Catch left an indelible mark on the series and its viewers. He was remembered for his calm under pressure, his professionalism, and his contribution to the success of the F/V Northwestern. His life and career were celebrated by those who knew him and those who followed his journey on television.
Category:1964 births
Category:2023 deaths
Category:American fishers
Category:Television personalities
Category:American people