On 7/19/12, LA Wildlife and Fisheries Agents were contacted by dispatch of a boating accident that had occurred in Catfish Lake.  Agents made contact with Lafourche Parish Sheriff's office who advised that a vessel LA7801BC with five subjects on board sunk in Catfish Lake and that the subjects were being rescued by a nearby boat and  being brought to the Apache Dock in Golden Meadow.  Agents made contact with the operator, who advised that he and four other subjects were returning from bow fishing at approximately 2:15 am.  Operator advised that the bow went under the water causing water to enter the boat and sinking the vessel.  All five subjects stayed with the vessel.  Operator stated that he was able to flag a nearby work boat with his spot light.  Agents asked operator why the vessel sank and he stated that he had too much gear and people in the boat.  The vessel was equipped with the proper PFD's but they were not used.  The vessel was a 16' Cajun Special powered with a go-devil tiller steer motor.  Alcohol was not suspected in the accident.  Agents feel after interviewing the subjects, that the boat was overloaded with too many people along with gear for the size of the vessel.
Golden Meadows                