05/27/2012 Operator cruising in unfamiliar waters. Attempted cutting between a small island and the bank of the lake. Looking at the water between the island it looks as if it is deep enough to go through. Operator's vessel struck a submerged object while transitting through the narrow channel. Immediately after striking object operator advised that he turned around and observed mud in the water. Once operator observed the mud he realized that he was in shallow water. Starboard side motor mount broke through fiberglass, propeller damaged beyond repair, skeg on lower unit bent.
HIAWASSEE                     