Accident Overview
A pilot and passenger flying a floatplane for aerial photography encountered a lowering overcast layer during a flight from a lake residence. The pilot diverted to a marina, then step-taxied through a pass toward the islands. Weather remained poor, and the pilot beached the aircraft in a cove. After a period of waiting, the flight departed toward the islands, but the pilot does not recall all events leading up to the accident.
Weather and Witness Report
A boater who arrived at the wreckage shortly after the accident reported that the overcast layer was at 400 to 500 feet above ground level, with visibility between one-quarter and one-half mile.
Aircraft Damage and Position
The float-equipped aircraft was found on the beach, out of the water, with the nose positioned against a rock outcropping. Impact damage consistent with terrain contact was noted: the left wing tip, right wing leading edge, both front floats (crushed upward and rearward), the lower left side of the engine cowling (crushed rearward), the propeller and spinner, and the tail cone (broken just aft of the baggage compartment).
Pilot Statement
The boater stated that the pilot said, 'we were going too fast.' No other statements from the pilot regarding the accident were reported.
Mechanical Examination
No evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction was found during the investigation.