Accident Overview
A float plane operating on the Kustatan River experienced a loss of control shortly after departing from a fishing stop. The pilot, who did not hold a seaplane rating, reported that the aircraft stalled immediately after lift-off, settled back to the water surface, and nosed over before coming to rest adjacent to a sand bar.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, he had previously landed the float plane on the Kustatan River to fish. When preparing to depart, he selected a takeoff path that required negotiating a turn while still on the step. He noted a 10- to 12-knot headwind initially, but as he approached the lift-off point, the wind shifted to a quartering headwind and was then blocked by trees, reducing it to virtually no wind. The pilot stated that he did not have sufficient airspeed at the moment the aircraft lifted off. Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft stalled.
Outcome
Following the stall, the aircraft descended and made contact with the water, nosing over before coming to rest next to a sand bar. No injuries were reported in the source. The pilot's lack of a seaplane rating was noted.