Incident Overview
A pilot landing a float-equipped airplane at a remote lake reported encountering challenging conditions during the approach. The pilot noted that the lake surface was extremely glassy, which can affect depth perception and altitude awareness during landing.
Approach and Landing
During the initial approach, the pilot established an indicated airspeed of 60 knots and a descent rate of 100 to 200 feet per minute, a common technique for glassy water landings. However, after crossing the shoreline, the airspeed dropped to between 50 and 55 knots, and the descent rate increased to more than 200 feet per minute. The pilot attempted to correct by adding power, but the airplane struck the water hard and bounced.
Go-Around Attempt and Touchdown
Following the first bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around but then perceived the angle of attack to be too high. Deciding to abort the go-around, he reduced power and allowed the airplane to contact the water again. A second bounce occurred before the airplane settled into the water and came to a stop.
Damage and Mechanical Status
During the landing sequence, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.