DEADLIEST CATCH

Fighting seas more swollen than Renee Zellweger's face after a bee sting, I am convinced that the Alaskan crab fisherman does, indeed, have the most dangerous job in the world. Sporting outstanding production values—cinematography, sound, editing, narration and music are all exemplary—this 10-part Discovery Channel series is must-see TV.

The hook is simple: $140,000 for five days' work is a job some men would die for. And some do—every year. I've watched three episodes thus far and have sat mesmerized throughout each as this year's crab season unfolds. Working twenty-plus hour shifts in 40-foot waves, freezing temperatures and experiencing a near 100% injury rate these men deserve every dime they earn. I can guarantee you that if you watch only a few minutes of any episode you will never again complain about the cost of King Crab legs.

Thankfully, beginning next year, the crab season will not be limited to a dictated number of days (which vary from four to twelve depending upon the edict of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game). Instead, they will institute a simple seasonal quota in an effort to reduce the risks that invariably result from the need to race the clock. It's a wise move that is long overdue. But for now, “The Last Rodeo” continues to unfold—high drama on the high seas and worthy of high ratings.