Accident Sequence
The pilot was returning from a local flight and established the airplane on a straight-in approach for a water landing. At approximately 300 feet msl and 75 mph, the pilot configured the airplane with 20 degrees of flaps and reset the elevator trim. After the airplane cleared a tree-covered hill to the northeast, the pilot retarded the throttle to idle. The airplane then contacted the water, dragging its tail, and became airborne again. It contacted the water a second time in a nose-low attitude and nosed over.
Post-Accident Examination
After the accident, flight control continuity was verified. The engine was run on the airframe at takeoff power for five minutes, indicating no pre-impact mechanical issues with the controls or engine.
Pilot Qualifications
The pilot did not have a single-engine sea rating. However, Federal Aviation Regulations exempt pilots of experimental aircraft from needing a rating in the category of aircraft they are operating.