CBS’s hit procedural Tracker thrives on its unusual premise: survivalist-turned-rewardist Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley) hunts down missing people in exchange for reward money. Across the first two seasons, Colter has amassed more than half a million dollars—sometimes through straightforward searches, and other times through dangerous investigations that put his life on the line. While not every mission comes with a paycheck, the jobs that do have given viewers some of the show’s most gripping moments.
Here’s a breakdown of Colter’s biggest-paying cases and why they stand out.
$25,000 – Missing Campers in the Woods
Season 2, Episode 6: “Trust Fall”
Colter’s sixth episode in season 2 sends him deep into the wilderness to locate a group of missing campers. The $25,000 reward ranks among his larger payouts, but the case proves especially grueling. Unlike urban searches, the rugged terrain adds physical strain, and Colter is tasked with finding three individuals rather than one.
The mission grows even more complex when he uncovers a murder plot tied to a separate death. Though financially rewarding, the sheer danger and workload make this one of Colter’s toughest jobs. On the upside, he gains a valuable ally in retired detective Keaton, who later helps Colter solve the long-running mystery of Gina Pickett.
$30,000 – The Search for Lana Russo
Season 1, Episode 9: “Aurora”
Despite the high $30,000 reward, Colter takes on Lana Russo’s case because he sympathizes with her father, who refuses to believe she’s dead after spotting her in a newspaper photo. Lana had been missing for three years, making this a cold case where most leads had gone cold.
Colter’s investigation brings him to an abandoned hospital, a chilling ghost story, and a vengeful pair of siblings. Fortunately, local law enforcement proves cooperative instead of obstructive, helping streamline the process. While not the most elaborate of mysteries, this early-season case highlights Colter’s determination to bring closure to grieving families.
$35,000 – Jackson Cheong at a Spiritual Retreat
Season 1, Episode 2: “Missoula”
One of Colter’s earliest high-dollar rewards comes when Jackson Cheong’s family offers $35,000 for his safe return. What seems like a simple retrieval quickly spirals when Colter discovers the retreat Jackson joined is essentially a cult.
The group’s leader attempts to manipulate Colter by exploiting his family history, testing his emotional resolve. In one of the show’s most memorable sequences, Colter breaks into the cult’s offices to expose its control tactics and uncovers evidence of murder. The case cements Colter’s reputation as someone willing to bend rules to save lives.
$50,000 – The Disappearance of Quinn Ridgely
Season 2, Episode 4: “Noble Rot”
Season 2 contributes some of Colter’s most lucrative jobs, starting with Quinn Ridgely’s disappearance at a corporate retreat. Thanks to Reenie vouching for him, Colter lands the case. With Reenie on site, the investigation moves more smoothly than usual—she even proves her versatility by charming a guard and stealing his keycard.
The search leads Colter through vineyards, retreat facilities, and corporate secrets. Though not his most dangerous mission, it’s layered with themes of workplace corruption, marital strain, and cover-ups, making it one of the show’s most engaging episodes.
$50,000 – Finding Matt Hale
Season 2, Episode 11: “Shades of Grey”
This case begins as a favor to Reenie’s boyfriend Elliot, who asks Colter to locate his client’s missing son. Backed by $50,000, the job quickly unravels as Colter learns the family hasn’t been entirely honest.
The missing man is entangled in a violent feud between rival crime syndicates, placing Colter in unusually high-stakes territory. The tension peaks when Colter is forced to shoot someone, underlining the life-and-death risks behind even his most profitable missions.
$50,000 – The Case of Ben Kinderson
Season 2, Episode 10: “Nightingale”
Hired by a grandmother convinced her grandson is innocent, Colter tracks survivalist Ben Kinderson, accused of multiple murders and a kidnapping. Using his tracking expertise, Colter follows faint signs—a footprint, blood drops, and knowledge of wilderness traps—to locate him.
Rather than arresting Kinderson, Colter helps him protect a kidnapped singer and prove his innocence. The episode stands out for showcasing Colter’s unique skill set in its purest form, earning him both respect and a hefty $50,000 reward.
$50,000 – Jesse Bowers in the Pilot
Season 1, Episode 1: “Klamath Falls”
The very first case of the series remains Colter’s most iconic. When the show begins, Colter has already located Jesse Bowers and is tending to her injuries. The $50,000 payout marks not only his first major onscreen win but also establishes the fast pace of his work.
What makes this case special is its efficiency. Within hours, Colter closes the job, calls Velma and Teddi to confirm completion, and heads straight into another mission—earning an additional $20,000 within just days. By the end of the pilot, he’s already racked up $70,000.
Looking Ahead to Season 3
Interestingly, some of Colter’s highest-paying jobs also turned out to be among his most straightforward. As Tracker heads into its third season, fans are left wondering whether the stakes—and the payouts—will rise even higher. If history is any indication, Colter’s most profitable cases may also be the ones that push him into the greatest danger.
