Operator was attempting to start motor of vessel, LA 4862 EX, a 22 foot deck boat powered by a 150 HP Johnson motor controlled by remote steering.  After several failed attempts, he went to the stern of vessel, pumped the fuel bulb and retightened the battery connections.  He attempted to start the vessel again and it did not start.  He attempted one more time, and fire erupted towards the bow of the vessel.  Operator was able to get off of the vessel with no injuries, the vessel sustained severe fire damage from directly in front of the operators position forward.  Operator was not wearing a PFD or the safety cutoff lanyard at the time of the incident.  Operator was starting the vessel before he launched it from the trailer.
LeBleu                        