RedactedNarrative: Subject returning to boat landing in rain storm. Operator stated that he was traveling at minimal operating speed due to heavy rain. Vessel (LA3035FU) struck large tree branch floating just beneath the water. Impact caused motor to be violently ripped from motor mounting bracket and motor rested on bottom of waterway. Motor cables remained attached and enabled owner to locate and retrieve damaged motor. 
  After motor was retrieved and tied to stern, vessel was towed into Bayou Benoit boat landing. Damaged motor was winched from water and photographs were taken. Engine appeared to sustain major damage which included: severely damaged nose cone, severely damaged powerhead housing and severed power cables and other wiring. Only damage to vessel was small dent to port side of transom where operator believes engine contacted transom after being ripped off of mounting bracket. NO injuries occurred and operator stated that he was wearing a type II PFD as well as the engine cutoff lanyard. There were no witnesses to this incident.