Operator of Vsl #1 advised they had left around 6:00 p.m. to go fishing.  The fog started to roll in and made visibility very difficult.  Operator stated he went east until he found shore then followed the shore line south towards Ludington.  Operator stated he could not see the lighthouse and once he thought he was close, he cut his motor twice to try and hear the fog horn.  Operator stated he could not hear the fog horn due to the dredging companies loud motor.  Operator stated the next thing he knew, he saw the pier head and attempted to steer away from it, but it was too late and he hit the pier head.  Operator had visible injuries to his leg and mouth and was treated at the Memorial Medical Center.
Pere Marquette Township       