According to Harbormasters a 911 call was received for a vessel on fire.  Approximately 50 feet from burning vessel was operator/owner on his skiff wearing a pfd paddling away from the vessel.  Just proir to this the operator stated that he came down from the flying bridge and was almost overcome with smoke.  The vessel continued to burn, flames were shooting into the air about 8'-10' then the vessel sank.  Harbormaster's report does not give a cause of accident but USCG is investigating.  This vessel was a commercial fishing vessel in the past but is now used as a pleasure vessel.  Operator stated he had no idea how fire started but volunteer firefighters watching from a Cliff nearby said it appreared a propane tank exploded soon after flames erupted.  Rescue crew from area could only watch from their respective boats as they lack a fire boat.
Rockport                      