Landing
The solo pilot reported that during touchdown on the snow-covered airstrip, which measured 1,000 feet long by 30 feet wide, the main wheels contacted deeper snow than he had anticipated. Before departing, the pilot had taxied the airplane back-and-forth on the airstrip to pack the snow, aiming to provide a suitable takeoff surface. The departure end of the airstrip extended to the shoreline of a lake, which was covered with a thin layer of ice.
Takeoff
During the takeoff run, the airplane's acceleration was hindered due to deep and loose snow on the surface of the airstrip. Nearing the end of the airstrip, the airplane lifted off but would not climb. It passed over the departure end of the airstrip, and the nose wheel struck a large stump located on the beach, between the end of the airstrip and the shoreline of the lake.
Aftermath
After the collision, the airplane descended onto the surface of the ice-covered lake, approximately 70 feet from the shoreline, and broke through the ice. Prior to the airplane sinking, the pilot swam to shore. The pilot stated that before the sinking, he saw structural damage to the airplane's wings and empennage. He also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.