RedactedNarrative: Operator was operating his vessel in South Pass of the MIssissippi River, south of Venice, LA. He was traveling to his camp off of South Pass. At approximately 4:00 AM the vessel struck a moored dredge buoy near the center of the pass. The operator stated the buoy was not lit or illuminated. The vessel ramped the buoy, making contact in two places along the keel. The lower unit also impacted the buoy, causing damage to the interior of the lower unit/motor. The operator was partially ejected over the starboard gunwale and the motor killed after impact. The operator was able to climb back in the vessel and was subsequently towed to his camp. The operator reported he was wearing a life jacket and his kill switch. The type of incident was striking a fixed object. Contributing factors are missing/inadequate aids to navigation. No alcohol or drug use is suspected.