What happened
A private pilot was operating a float-equipped aircraft under Title 14, CFR Part 91, ferrying a passenger and supplies from a hunting camp. During takeoff from a lake, the pilot reported that the aircraft was slow to reach step due to heavy chop and winds gusting to 30 knots. After the initial liftoff, the aircraft settled back into the water before lifting off a second time and beginning a slow climb.
As the aircraft crossed the shore, it reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level before beginning a descent. Despite the engine being at full power and the pilot lowering the nose to increase airspeed, the aircraft continued to lose altitude. The pilot maneuvered to avoid large trees, but the aircraft subsequently struck smaller trees and settled onto the tundra. The impact caused the float supports to collapse and the right wing to strike the ground. There were no fatalities reported in the accident.
Findings
The pilot provided a written statement indicating that the departure should have been made with a lighter load or during better weather conditions. Additionally, the pilot noted that the flight conditions should have been re-evaluated after the aircraft settled back into the water following the first attempted liftoff.