The operator stated he just filled his vessel up with fuel at the lilly's bridge marina.  After starting the vessel, operator began heading away from the marina towards open water.  Approximately two minutes while underway, a small explosion occurred in the engine compartment in which operator described as a plume of white smoke.  Operator attempted to extinguish the fire using the type b1 extinguisher with no avail.  Operator stated the flames were too high.  Operator then jumped overboard where he was then pulled from the water by a fisherman.
No alcohol was involved.  Operator neglected to use any life jackets on board due to the active fire.
Note:  operator stated that he had his blower on while fueling the vessel.  He did not have the blower operating four minutes after fueling nor before starting the engine.  I believe there may have been a gas leakage in the engine compartment in which found an ignition source when started by operator.
NORWOOD