RedactedNarrative: On August 8, 2018, at approximately 5:00pm., officers were notified of one vessel sinking, occupied by one passenger in the Pirates Cove/Army Recreational site area of Toledo Bend Lake in Sabine Parish.  Agent and I were able to locate the capsized vessel with one occupant sitting on the hull of the vessel wearing a P.F.D.  
  
  After we were able to secure the passenger/operator into our vessel medical treatment was offered and refused by the operator.  We then transported the operator back to shore safely.  I then was able to identify the operator.  It was determined that at the time of the incident Operator was actively checking his trot-line, using a 2005 17ft. 4 inch Bass Tracker vessel (LA 1798-FL), when he noticed water around his feet.
  
   Operator was sitting in the operators seat at the time of the incident with the vessel motor off.  He noticed the free board was low to the water's edge and waves splashing over the stern into the vessel.  He quickly attempted to start the vessels motor as the stern began sinking into the water.  Operator was not able to get the motor started before the stern submerged.  He then donned a P.F.D. as the vessel continued to sink.  Operator was able to stay with the vessel as it eventually capsized and waited for assistance from L.D.W.F. Agents.  During the investigation, alcohol and drugs were not determined to be a contributing factor to the incident.
  