Operator of vessel 1, was fishing approximately 3 miles west of the spoil banks off of Crystal River,in the Florida Power Intake Canal.  A  storm  approached and the operator decided to head for shore.  The engine stopped running and he was caught by the approaching storm.  Operator advised that as the seas grew larger he grabbed a life jacket and attempted to put it on, but was thrown from the vessel when a large wave struck the vessel, broad side. The operator spent approximately 22 hours in the water before being picked up by a passing boater.  I spoke with the operator while he was being treated at  Seven River Medical Center.  He was somewhat disoriented and unable to fill out a statement. He was treated for dehydration.
CRYSTAL RIVER