Watercraft #1 was traveling southbound at approximately 3/4 throttle (15-20 mph) through the Birch Narrows on Lake Vermilion. Operator stated he saw an aluminum fishing boat sideways in the narrows with no lights on. Operator stated he turned the steering wheel to the right to avoid striking the boat. Operator stated he was then going towards shore and turned the steering wheel to the left. Operator was thrown from the watercraft. The watercraft went in a circle and then hit shore. Operator swam to shore and was picked up by witness' friend. Operator was not wearing a pfd and did not appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There was no information on the other watercraft. Witness saw Watercraft #1 heading southbound through the narrows with its lights on. Witness stated she saw Watercraft #1 make a sharp U-turn and then heard it hit shore. She told a friend who called 911 and then picked up operator of WC #1.
Cook                          