On Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 at approximately 1800 hrs, OP1 and two passengers were fishing in the vicinity of Disappearing Island, Ponce Inlet, FL. All three subjects were onboard a white 16-foot Carolina Skiff bearing Florida Registration. The owner was not onboard at the time of the accident. While attempting to anchor the vessel, the vessel's prop became entangled in the anchor line, causing the vessel to turn sharply astern. All three occupants were ejected. All subject were rescued by USCG at approximately 1815 hrs with no injuries. 
Accident Analysis:
Pre-Accident (Collision):
At approximately 1745 hrs, OP1 and two passengers were onboard Florida vessel fishing in the vicinity of the Disappearing Island and Ponce Inlet in Ponce Inlet, FL. At some point, while attempting to anchor at a new fishing spot, the vessel became tangled in the anchor line due to the wind and current.   
Accident:
At approximately 1750 hrs, the vessel’s propeller became entangled in the anchor line. When the slack in the line tightened, it pulled on the stern of the vessel, causing the vessel to turn abruptly. This movement ejected all three passengers and caused the vessel to take on water and ultimately capsize.
Post-Accident:
A concerned bystander called in the accident at approximately 1800 hrs. USCG arrived a few moments later and were able to retrieve all three passengers with no issue. No injuries were sustained by either party. All three subjects were brought to the Coast Guard Station, where I was able to take a report. At approximately 1900 hrs, we escorted the subjects to the Lighthouse marina located in Ponce Inlet. The owner had agreed to meet them their to retrieve both them and the vessel. At approximately 1900 as well, Sea Tow took possession of the vessel. 
Conclusion:
Based on evidence gathered to date, this accident occurred due to equipment failure and weather conditions. Though the wind and current were moderate, the vessel had been anchored with too long of a line, causing the slack to catch on the propeller. When the anchor line went taught, it caused the vessel to violently adjust, ejecting all three passengers before taking on water and ultimately capsizing.

Ponce Inlet
PORT ORANGE                   