RedactedNarrative: On October 5th, 2020, at approximately 1000 hours, Vessel 1 sank approximately 1 nm south southeast of Mollasses Reef. The occupants had no pfds and were clinging to floating bean bag chairs to stay afloat. The operator was able to provide us with GPS coordinates until we were able to rescue them. All 5 people on board were recovered with no injuries and returned to shore safely. 
  
  Operator took V1 out towards Molasses Reef and encountered rough seas. When they hit approximately 120’ of water, Operator let the vessel drift and they started to set out fishing lines. Subject became seasick and as he moved to the stern noticed water on the deck getting deeper and alerted Operator.
  
  	Operator attempted to turn on the motor to get V1 moving and force the water to drain while the others on board started pulling in rods. The engine failed to start and submerged. Operator then tried to turn on the VHF radio but was unable to make a distress call. He attempted to open the hatch and distribute PFDs, but V1 submerged before they could be distributed. Two floating bean bag chairs surfaced, and they were able to use these as improvised flotation devices. V1 sunk in under 30 seconds.
  
  	Operator was able to grab an EPIRB and retain his phone. Operator called 911 and was eventually transferred to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement Officer. Operator provided GPS coordinates until they were rescued.
  
  	All five individuals were pulled from the water with no injuries and all refused EMS. The owner of the vessel was contacted and met us at Pilot House Marina where all five individuals were returned to land. Once on land, the crew explained that they believe the live well suffered a fault and was pumping water into the bilge. Combined with the rough seas they believe this overwhelmed the bilge pump and caused the vessel to sink.
  