Accident Overview
A private certificated pilot, who also serves as a Fish and Wildlife Protection Officer, and a passenger, a State Trooper, were conducting surveillance activities of hunters from a wheel/ski-equipped airplane. The pilot initiated a landing to the west on a hard packed snow and ice-covered lake, anticipating a need to correct for a left crosswind.
Landing Sequence
After touchdown, as the airplane neared the end of its 950-foot landing roll, the nose of the airplane veered to the left, and the airplane began to slide sideways. The airplane subsequently turned approximately 90 degrees to the left, causing the right ski to dig into the snow. The right wing and right stabilizer then struck the surface of the frozen lake.
Pilot Observations
In his written report, the pilot stated, "As I exited the pilot's side of the aircraft, I was extremely surprised to find that the wind was actually a left quartering tailwind, at about 15 knots."
Damage and Mechanical Findings
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and right stabilizer. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were noted with the airplane.