What happened
Following an uneventful landing on an 800-foot long, water-filled slough, a solo airline transport pilot dropped off two hunters and their gear. During the landing approach, the pilot estimated winds were originating from the north at 12 to 15 knots.
After performing a takeoff from the north, the aircraft entered its initial climb phase. During this ascent, the northerly winds dissipated, and the aircraft would not continue to climb. Consequently, the Cessna (type not specified in source) collided with a stand of trees located at the departure end of the slough. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the aircraft prior to the accident.