Incident Overview
A private pilot was flying a single-engine, float-equipped airplane at low altitude in conditions conducive to carburetor icing. The pilot reported that the carburetor heat was set to approximately 60% "on." When he applied power to climb, the engine did not initially respond and subsequently began running rough. The pilot then applied full carburetor heat, but the engine "choked" and lost additional power.
Forced Landing
Faced with diminishing engine power, the pilot executed a forced landing in a nearby swamp. During the landing, the airplane nosed over. After the aircraft was recovered from the swamp, the pilot stated that the engine started and operated normally.
Pilot's Observations
In his report to the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilot noted that the accident could have been prevented by early detection of carburetor ice and prompt application of carburetor heat.