Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft's nose pitching up and down and the wings wobbling shortly after departure. Immediately following takeoff from a lake, the aircraft stalled, executed a half spin, and nosed into the water.
Pilot Background and Aircraft Loading
The pilot was operating the aircraft on his first flight in that type without an instructor. The aircraft was heavily loaded with passengers and fishing gear.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot's statement, after takeoff he adjusted the engine RPM to climb power and then adjusted the flaps. He reported that this sequence matched the order in which he had been instructed. However, the aircraft flight manual specifies that the flaps should be adjusted first, followed by power.