On 5/28/2012, at about 10:10 am, an 18' Smokercraft Sportsman was anchored in approximately 30-40' of water in strong current on the Columbia River near Camas, WA in Clark county .  The operator attempted to pull the anchoring system free by using vessel power.  The boat had 2 Honda outboard engines, 90 hp and 8hp.  The anchoring technique, referred to as "Columbia River anchoring system), would not come free from the rocky bottom.  The operator attempted to free the anchor by using power from the outboard, and attached the anchor line to the stern of the vessel and began maneuvering to go upstream.  The boat immediately swung downstream, putting the stern into the current and causing the boat to swamp w/water and sink sending all 3 occupants into the water.  

Two occupants were picked up by other fishing boats in the area.  One person was transported to the hospital and treated for shock and exposure.  The third occupant disappeared under the water and was presumed drowned.  None of the occupants were wearing life jackets.  There was no evidence of alcohol involved. 

Damages were estimated at $16,000.00 for the boat, motors, and equipment on board.  According to the Clark County Sheriff's Office, as of 11/27/2012, body has not been recovered.

Camas                         