Halfway through the season, Shawn Pomrenke needs massive gold at the Bluff; after the debacle at Sledge Island, Zeke and Emily reach a breaking point; buried in debt, Nome newcomer George Young remains optimistic.

A back injury hobbles Shawn. Kris finally puts the Kellys on gold, but the claim owner is having second thoughts. George is in a tight spot when getting gold means defying his brother.