On 11/24/2013, at about 11:00 a.m., this vessel, was motoring down river (west) on the Columbia River past the gates to the Ilwaco channel. They were moving from Baker Bay to the area below the Cape Disappointment lighthouse to crab. A vessel was cutting in front of Operator from north to south, east of or up river of the A-Jetty. Law Enforcement's report indicated that the A-Jetty has a sunken section of rock that is exposed at low tide. At the time of incident, the water was coming back in however the current was still observed flowing out on the buoys but it was near slack tide. 

Operator reported that the vessel in front of him made an evasive maneuver and when it cleared he continued straight on his down river course. Operator said he believed the visible pilings were the end of the Jetty and did not know about the submerged rocks out farther. At the last second, he saw the tip of the rock at the water line and tried to turn but it was too late. The vessel slid over the rock lifting the back of the boat out of the water. Operator reported within seconds he was standing in water. Water was also pouring up around the edges of the floorboards. 

Operator told the four men on board to put on PFDs and he put one on as well. While they were putting on their PFDs Operator tried to motor toward shore and the stern was going down. Within 2 to 3 minutes the boat went down and all 5 occupants were in the water. 

An unknown Good Samaritan came to their aid and immediately pulled 4 of the men into the boat. A second Good Samaritan pulled the 5th man into his boat. All 5 men were transported to the Cape Disappointment Coast Guard Station. 

No injuries or fatalities. 
There was no apparent alcohol involvement. 
Vessel damages estimated at $40,000 - Total Loss. 
Other property damages estimated at $10,640. 
No one on board was wearing a PFD prior to the incident. PFDs were readily available and all on board were able to put one on quickly. 
The Operator had an Oregon Boater Education Card. 
Rules of the Road Violation - Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another.
Ilwaco