Vessel owner was operating a 1995 bass type boat with an outboard motor and metal hull, traveling west on the Clearwater River in an area called the "Saddlebag" which is near milepost 37.5 on Highway 12.  Vessel was moving downstream through a small set of rapids where the water is shallow and is covered with numerours rocks that are at or near the surface.  The operator was unfamiliar with the Clearwater River, struck one of the rocks, causing his vessel to turn sideways and take on water.  The vessel was held against the rocks by the force of the water.
There were two passengers in the vessel, they were thrown into the water.  Neither were wearing life jackets.  The operator was able to throw life jackets, and the passengers were able to get the jackets on.  A vessel that was downstream witnessed the accident and picked up the passengers.  The operator remained on the vessel.
The passengers were brought to shore, the operator was rescued from his boat by marine deputies.
Peck                          