Incident Overview
A float plane conducting a flight after a fishing trip on Big Moose Lake encountered an engine power loss during climb. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees and swampy terrain during an attempted emergency landing.
Witness and Passenger Accounts
Two witnesses reported that the aircraft's engines seemed to be running at full power as it climbed over the lake. One passenger, the pilot's 15-year-old son, stated that the engine began to lose power. The pilot reversed course in an attempt to return to the lake for a landing but was unable to reach it. The aircraft then struck trees and swampy terrain.
Investigation
The preflight inspection had included removal of straw from a bird nest. During the post-accident investigation, no preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft or engine was found. After minor repairs, the engine ran normally during an operational check.