RedactedNarrative: Operator placed power pole in water while preparing to fish an edge between shallow and deeper water.  The pole slipped from its purchase and the boat began to drift.  The operator then began to deploy the trolling motor on the bow at which time he lost his footing and fell overboard to the port.  As he fell his small finger on his left hand was contacted by a coupling on the telescoping portion of the trolling motor as the motor fell to the extended position.  This resulted in the severing of the tip of the finger.  This was approximately half way to the first joint.  He then piloted the boat back to his dock.  He washed the boat, returned home and changed, and then drove himself to the Gulf Breeze Hospital Emergency Room.  There he was treated and released. 
  
  