Rescue of Fishermen on capsized boat on Crowley Lake

Date:     May 4, 2015
Subject: Capsized boat on Crowley Lake

On Saturday, May 2, 2015, at approximately 2:45pm, Mono County Sheriff’s Office Boat Patrol received a call regarding a capsized boat near Sandy Point on Crowley Lake.

Four fishermen from Southern California rented a fishing boat for a day of fishing on Crowley Lake. One of the men onboard stood up while the boat was anchored, and slipped to one side causing the boat to flip over. A pontoon boat in the area saw the fishermen in the water, holding on to the bottom of their boat to stay above water, and brought them aboard their vessel to await assistance. They called the Crowley Lake Marina who then alerted Mono County Sheriff’s Office Boat Patrol of the incident.

Boat Patrol and Crowley Lake Marina staff arrived to the capsized boat. Crowley Lake Marina staff was able to turn the boat upright and safely bring it back to the marina. The fishermen were transferred to the MCSO boat, cold and wet but otherwise uninjured. They were safely transported back to the marina.

Please remember to use caution and common sense when operating any type of watercraft on our waterways, for your safety and the safety of those around you. Always be prepared and have the proper life jackets onboard for all passengers on the vessel and ensure everyone knows how to properly use them. Accidents happen – ensure your vessel is always equipped with the proper safety equipment.

Thank you to the other fisherman on their pontoon boat for lending a helping hand, and to the Crowley Lake Marina staff for their prompt response and help on this incident! - Jennifer M. Hansen, Public Information Officer