John Schnabel Net Worth (Updated 2026).

John Schnabel, born and raised in Haines, Alaska, started his career in the late 1970s, working as a commercial fisherman in the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea. He honed his skills and built a reputation for his tenacity and determination, eventually becoming one of the most successful fishermen in the region.

In 1982, Schnabel took a significant step in his career when he purchased the Big Nugget Mine in Porcupine Creek, Alaska. He saw the potential in the gold-rich land and, with his characteristic grit, transformed it into a thriving mining operation. This move marked the beginning of his rise to fame, as word spread about the substantial gold finds at his mine.

**John Schnabel’s Current Net Worth**

As of 2025, John Schnabel’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to his successful career in the gold mining industry.

**John Schnabel’s Career**

John Schnabel began his career in the 1970s, working as a commercial fisherman in Alaska. However, he gained prominence in the late 1980s when he started his gold mining business, Big Nugget Mine, in Porcupine Creek, Alaska. Schnabel’s mining operations were featured in the Discovery Channel reality TV show “Gold Rush,” which significantly contributed to his wealth and fame.

**John Schnabel’s Other Ventures**

Apart from his mining operations, Schnabel has also ventured into other businesses. He owns a construction company, Schnabel Excavating, which provides services like land clearing, excavation, and road construction. Additionally, he has invested in real estate, owning several properties in Alaska and Washington state.

**John Schnabel’s Assets**

John Schnabel’s assets include his gold mining claims, his construction company, and his real estate holdings. His most valuable asset is likely his Big Nugget Mine, which has yielded millions of dollars in gold over the years. Schnabel also owns a fleet of heavy machinery used in his mining and construction operations.

**John Schnabel’s Annual Income**

John Schnabel’s annual income varies depending on the gold market and the productivity of his mines. However, as of 2025, his estimated annual income is around $10 million. This includes earnings from his mining operations, his construction company, and his real estate investments.

Frequently Asked Questions about  John Schnabel

John Schnabel Net Worth FAQs

1. What is John Schnabel’s net worth?

John Schnabel’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

2. How did John Schnabel make his fortune?

John Schnabel made his fortune through his gold mining business, Big Nugget Mine, in Alaska.

3. When was John Schnabel born?

John Schnabel was born on January 14, 1929.

4. Where was John Schnabel born?

John Schnabel was born in Kansas City, Missouri.

5. Did John Schnabel have any children?

Yes, John Schnabel had three children: Roger, Pam, and Shawn.

6. What was John Schnabel’s cause of death?

John Schnabel passed away on March 18, 2016, due to natural causes.

7. How old was John Schnabel when he passed away?

John Schnabel was 87 years old when he passed away.

8. Did John Schnabel appear on any TV shows?

Yes, John Schnabel appeared on the Discovery Channel show “Gold Rush” alongside his son, Todd Hoffman.

9. What was John Schnabel’s role in “Gold Rush”?

John Schnabel served as a mentor and advisor to the gold miners on the show, often providing guidance and wisdom based on his years of experience in the mining industry.

10. Where is John Schnabel buried?

John Schnabel was buried in Haines, Alaska, following his passing in 2016.