In the remote reaches of Bristol Bay, Alaska, the world’s most intense fishing season unfolds over a mere four weeks. A fleet of 1,800 captains and their crews gear up for a fierce competition aimed at preserving Alaska’s ecosystem by catching a lucrative haul of sockeye salmon. With the promise of wealth lurking beneath the waves, five captains brace themselves to confront the harsh conditions of the bay, the chaotic scramble of boats vying for the best spots, and the stringent regulations enforced by surveillance helicopters and police units. In this high-stakes environment, fishing for nearly 44 million salmon is crucial for ecological balance, while the law’s reach is extensive, patience is scarce, and every choice can mean the difference between a substantial profit and a meager return.