Operator was fishing under SH51 Bridge on Ft. Gibson Lake and had his vessel tied with a rope to the West side of the farthest West pier.  Operator was caught suddenly in a storm causing high winds which resulted in very rough waves.  Operator advised he was unable to untie his vessel and in just a matter of minutes, his vessel began to be swamped and sink while still tied to pier.  Operator was wearing his PFD and was able to swim approximately 25 yards to the West bank under SH51 bridge.  Witnesses #1 and #2 reported vessel in approximately 34' of water at approximately 0500 hrs on the morning of 06.14.09.  PFD Information:  Operator - Type III.  Adult catalog no. 1530.  #160.060/89/0 - Spare PFD Type III Adult (same).
Wagoner                       