Andy Hillstrand is married to Sabrina Hillstrand, his partner of over 35 years, and together they’ve built a life balancing the high-stakes world of crab fishing with family and personal passions. Known for his role as co-captain of the F/V Time Bandit on Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, Andy has captured audiences with his grit and humor. This article dives into his marriage, age, net worth, salary, and dating history, offering fresh insights into his life on and off the Bering Sea. With new perspectives and updated information as of August 2025, here’s everything you need to know about Andy Hillstrand.
Who Is Andy Hillstrand? Biography and Early Life
Born on September 25, 1963, in Homer, Alaska, Andy Hillstrand, now 61 years old, grew up immersed in the fishing world. As a third-generation Alaskan fisherman, he learned the trade from his father, John Hillstrand Sr., and grandfather. By age three, Andy was already on boats, developing skills that would define his career. His early life was marked by resilience, raised by his father and stepmother, Nancy, after his biological mother left when he was six. This rugged upbringing shaped his work ethic and passion for the sea.
Andy’s talents extend beyond fishing. He’s a skilled musician, proficient in guitar and drums, and a former barrel-racing champion. His diverse interests, from horse training to diving, reflect a multifaceted personality that balances adventure and creativity.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Paul Hillstrand |
| Birth Date | September 25, 1963 |
| Age | 61 years old (as of August 2025) |
| Birthplace | Homer, Alaska, USA |
| Occupation | Commercial Fisherman, Reality TV Star, Musician, Horse Trainer |
| Known For | Co-captain of F/V Time Bandit on Deadliest Catch |
| Height | 5’8” (1.73 m) |
| Siblings | Jonathan, Neal, David, Michael Hillstrand |
| Parents | John Hillstrand Sr. (father), Nancy Hillstrand (stepmother) |
| Education | Limited formal education; trained in fishing from childhood |
Is Andy Hillstrand Married? Insights into His Marriage to Sabrina
Andy Hillstrand has been married to Sabrina Hillstrand for over 35 years, a testament to their enduring partnership despite the challenges of his career. The couple met at a party in Homer, Alaska, when Andy was 19, sparking a romance that led to marriage after five years of dating. Their bond, built on mutual respect and shared interests, has weathered long separations due to Andy’s time at sea. In a 2008 Discovery Channel live chat, Andy shared, “It’s hard to stay married when you’re gone all the time. But I got a good woman, I guess.”
Sabrina, a private figure, has been a pillar of support, managing family life while Andy braved the Bering Sea. Together, they raised two daughters, Cassandra (Cassie) and Chelsea, and now enjoy life as grandparents to Cassie’s sons, Dylan and Kade. Their shared passion for horses led them to establish Hobby Horse Acres, a 17-acre ranch in Chandler, Indiana, where they offered riding lessons and day camps. Though they sold the ranch in the early 2020s, their love for animals persists, with the couple now living in Virginia with their dogs.
Andy Hillstrand’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Andy Hillstrand’s net worth is estimated at $3 million in 2025, a significant increase from earlier estimates of $1.5 million, reflecting his diverse income streams. His earnings stem from his time on Deadliest Catch, where he reportedly earned $25,000 per episode at the show’s peak, alongside his fishing income, which averages $150,000 annually. Additional revenue comes from family businesses like Time Bandit Spirits and Fireworks, as well as merchandise sales through Time Bandit’s official website.
A unique insight from industry analysis suggests that Andy’s mechanical expertise—fixing hydraulics and electrical systems mid-storm—boosted the Time Bandit’s efficiency, likely increasing his earnings per crab season. Unlike many reality stars, Andy’s wealth is rooted in decades of hands-on work, not just TV fame.
Andy Hillstrand’s Dating History: A Steady Love Story
Unlike many public figures, Andy Hillstrand’s dating history is straightforward. Before marrying Sabrina, he dated her for five years, with no public record of other relationships. His commitment to Sabrina, even amidst the grueling schedule of crab fishing, highlights a rare stability in the high-pressure world of reality TV. This contrasts with the more tumultuous personal lives of some Deadliest Catch peers, underscoring Andy’s focus on family.
Life After Deadliest Catch: What Happened to Andy?
Andy left Deadliest Catch in 2020 after a fallout with producers over scheduling and creative differences, as noted in a 2011 Entertainment Weekly interview. He briefly returned for special episodes but has since embraced a quieter life. Today, he resides in Virginia, focusing on family and new ventures like Hillstrand Construction, a business he started near Seattle. His departure from the show was also influenced by a lawsuit involving a crew member injured by Time Bandit Fireworks, which strained relations with Discovery.
A case study of Andy’s post-show life reveals a shift toward entrepreneurship. Unlike his brother Jonathan, who returned to Deadliest Catch for Season 16, Andy prioritized personal fulfillment over fame. His social media presence, though limited, includes occasional posts about his dogs and Alaskan pride on Twitter.
Andy Hillstrand’s Age and Legacy at 61
At 61 years old, Andy remains a respected figure in the fishing community. His legacy on Deadliest Catch includes memorable moments of leadership during opilio crab season and his calm, problem-solving demeanor. Fans still celebrate his chemistry with brother Jonathan, whose “wild energy” complemented Andy’s steady hand, as noted on Celebrity Net Worth.
Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the dangers of commercial fishing, with a fatality rate 40 times higher than the national average. Andy’s survival and success in this industry underscore his skill and resilience, qualities that continue to define his post-TV career.
Unique Insights: Andy’s Impact Beyond the Screen
Andy’s influence extends beyond entertainment. His work with Hobby Horse Acres introduced natural horsemanship to communities in Indiana, fostering a love for animals among children. A 2016 ClearSpan feature noted that Andy’s ranch provided opportunities for kids who couldn’t otherwise afford to ride, reflecting his commitment to giving back.
Additionally, Andy’s advocacy for sustainable fishing practices, as seen in his brother Jonathan’s 2020 comments to Stuff, aligns with growing environmental concerns. By avoiding overfishing and respecting crab population regulations, Andy contributed to the industry’s longevity, a perspective rarely highlighted in mainstream coverage.
Conclusion: Andy Hillstrand’s Enduring Story
Andy Hillstrand’s marriage to Sabrina, his $3 million net worth, and his life at 61 paint a picture of a man who balances adventure with family. From the Bering Sea to Virginia’s quiet fields, Andy’s journey reflects resilience, love, and versatility. For more on his career, check out his Wikipedia page or follow fan updates on Facebook. His story continues to inspire, proving that life’s roughest storms can lead to calmer shores.
