Since the "Crab Rationalation Plan" went into effect a few years ago, the Crab fleet is 1/3 the size it used to be. So there is alot less jobs avaible now, and alot of crab deckhands that had to find other work. But, with the quota system you kinda know what your going to make, the veriable is how long it takes to catch'em and market value. generally the jobs are better.
Crab fishing is really tough. Its glorified a bit on TV. 35-45 hr sessions on deck with your head still working not everybody can do, you need alot of heart and passion for it. Everybody that goes crab fishing doesn't make money. It is fun when your on Crab or fish, but slow fishing,( and it happenes the the best) can be a real mind game.
I don't know any crab fisherman personally. Guys used to fly to 'Dutch and keep going around all the boats and ask the crew if somebody hasn't showen up for gear work and if someone is absent just start working.