On april 30, 2011 o/o 1 and p1 were fishing on lake francis case approximately 3 miles downstream of big bend dam.  While fishing they were in a secluded bay and were not aware of how strong the wind had become.  

When o/o1 noticed the wind he called the hotel operator where they were staying (a well known fishing guide) for advice on where to go.  After discussing the situation they decided to try to make it 3 miles to big bend dam where someone would meet them with the trailer rather than attempt the 18 miles back to the ramp where they had launched.

After driving the boat several hundred yards upstream, they were hit by a very large wave (reported to be 10 feet plus).  This wave bent the windshield and completely swamped the boat.  O/o1 immediately turned the boat to shore and beached it until they could get help.  The boat was tied to a tree stump and a large rock, however the constant wave action continued to pound the boat against the shore and rocks.

The majority of the damage to the boat, including large chips out of the fiberglass and areas rubbed completely through the gel coat were caused at this point.  Once the wind died down on 5/2/2011 o/o1, p1 and a local marina owner retrieved the boat from where it was beached.  

Photos available of boat as it was beached and photos of damage.

FT THOMPSON                   