On April 29, 2023, at approximately 11:00 AM Game Wardens responded to a call regarding a capsized vessel near Needmore Point on Lake . The call state that a boat was swamp, and the occupants were on shore. At around 11:45 Wardens arrived on scene and observe a capsized bass boat and three individuals on shore. The individuals were identified. The individuals stated that they were fishing a High School tournament. Passenger were the participants of the tournament and Operator was the operator of the vessel. All three individuals were interviewed, and they stated that they observed water at the bottom of the vessel. They then began to bail the water and utilize the onboard bilge pumps. However, they were unsuccessful at getting rid of the water faster than the rate it was coming in. Eventually the boat filled up with water and began to take large waves over the side. Eventually all three occupants entered the water wearing their lifejacket and swam to shore where they called for help. All occupants of the vessel were ok and transported to Powell Park via TPWD patrol boat. The owner of the vessel met the occupants and Game Wardens at Powell Park where he took custody of the occupants. A Tow boat service recovered the vessel the following day and it was determined that delamination of the hull occurred resulting in the vessel taking on water. The vessel was determined to be a total loss and was valued at around $10,000.
0640 SAM RAYBURN
Brookland                     