What happened
During a departure from a narrow river channel, a pilot operating a float-equipped aircraft encountered a right crosswind of approximately 15 knots. While the aircraft was on-step, the pilot attempted a right step turn to remain within the confines of the river channel. However, due to the effects of P-factor, the pilot was unable to complete the turn to the right.
As the departure path ahead was obstructed by the river bank, the pilot lowered the flaps and rotated the aircraft into a climb attitude in an attempt to clear the obstacle. At an airspeed of approximately 50 knots, the pilot successfully maneuvered the aircraft over the bank, but the tails of the floats collided with several trees. The aircraft subsequently settled into the trees, resulting in damage to the wings and the float assemblies. There were no injuries reported in the accident.