Accident Sequence
A private certificated pilot was departing a remote lake in a float-equipped airplane. The lake measures approximately 1,500 feet in length, and the pilot had operated from that location previously. Before takeoff, the pilot taxied into the middle of the lake several times to assess wind conditions. The wind appeared to shift from northwest to west, with a velocity of about 12 knots.
The pilot initiated a takeoff run but aborted it. A second takeoff attempt included a step turn toward the south. During this maneuver, the airplane seemed to lose a slight amount of speed. Deciding to lower the flaps to assist in becoming airborne, the pilot reached for the flap handle. However, as he reached, he realized he was reaching for the area where the flap handle is normally installed in his other airplane, a Piper PA-18. Distracted by not finding the flap handle in the accident airplane, the pilot's attention was diverted.
The airplane became airborne but then collided with the bank of the lake. The impact launched the airplane upward into a steep nose-up attitude. The pilot reported that a stall was imminent. He lowered the nose, but the airplane rolled to the left and collided with the ground. The accident resulted in damage to the left float assembly, the left wing, and the fuselage.
No further details about injuries, aircraft type, or other factors are provided.