Background
A pilot flew an aircraft with four passengers to a dirt and gravel strip near the Egegik River and Becharof Lake, approximately 45 miles south of King Salmon, Alaska. The pilot was aware that the operator, Ft Richardson Flying Club, prohibited the operation of its aircraft into unapproved airports or strips.
Incident
While hunting near the strip, two members of the party did not return before nightfall. Concerned, the pilot decided to use the aircraft to help them find their way back. Initially, he started the aircraft engine and taxied to the highest point on the strip with all lights on. He set a deadline of 2200 hours for the hunters' return; when they did not arrive, he took off in poor weather conditions and circled the area of the strip. He then flew an extended pattern as if to land. At the position where he was expected to turn from base to final, the aircraft pitched down abruptly, entered an apparent spin, and crashed in the river.
Conditions
A witness estimated the weather as 300-400 feet overcast, visibility 1-2 miles, and wind 30 knots with higher gusts. The pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.045%.