Operator vessel 1 was motoring up the Gates of the Mountains towards upper Holter Lake.  Directly accross the channel from Meriwether Boat Access the vessel came in contact with a submerged rock.  The operator stated he was going 25-30 mph when he hit the fixed object.  He stated the prop and drive jumped out of the water and then slamed down.  The operator immeadiately noticed the vessel was taking on water.  He tried for the Meriwether Landing but had to turn around and put his boat on shore just prior to  it sinking.  He tied the boat to a tree and then got a ride to the Holter Lake Boat Loft to call authorities.  His wife and 6 year old son were passengers in the boat and no injuries were reported.  The operator stated that he may have been to close to shore when he hit the rock.
Helena