What happened
During a flight conducted under marginal visual flight rules, the pilot departed from a location outside of a standard airport. Shortly after the takeoff, weather conditions deteriorated significantly, resulting in heavy snowfall and a reduction in visibility to near zero.
In an effort to navigate, the pilot attempted to track the coastline at a low altitude. However, the pilot was unable to maintain continuous visual contact with the terrain due to the worsening weather. According to the pilot's account, trees became visible directly in the flight path. In an attempt to maneuver away from the trees, the pilot initiated a right turn toward an area believed to be an open bay. During this maneuver, the right float of the aircraft struck a rock outcrop, leading to an impact with the water.
Findings
There were no reported mechanical issues or malfunctions that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally. The primary factor in the accident was the loss of visual reference to the ground due to heavy snow and declining visibility.