Moving to Alaska for adventure, Mary Jacobs's job-and pay-at the cannery fails to excite. When she begins working on a fishing vessel, she is hooked. But in this man's world, if women get hired, they usually cook, clean, and do unimportant jobs. Mary aspires for more. Much more.

Determined to command her own fishing boat, despite rejection and setbacks, Mary works tirelessly, expands her knowledge and skills, and advances in the positions she holds, all the while fishing in gorgeous bays surrounded by wildlife-and raising a family.

She Takes the Helm captures the adventures, dangers, and thrills of fishing in Alaska. Although men still dominate in that world, Mary Jacobs's life shows how women can break barriers, overcome obstacles, and realize their dreams.