Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Unidentified Fishing Boat
- Type: Fishing Boat
- Year Built:
- Builder: Boston Whaler
- Dimensions: 21 ft (6.8 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Lake Ontario, exact coordinates undisclosed
- Original Owners: Mike Tanner
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The wreck is a 21-foot fishing boat, equipped with both a Johnson outboard motor and a Johnson trolling motor. The vessel also had a full set of downriggers, essential for anglers targeting species at various depths in Lake Ontario. These features suggest the boat was operated by an experienced fisherman, likely familiar with deep-water fishing in the region. The equipment found on board indicates the vessel was well-outfitted for precision fishing, particularly popular in the deeper sections of the lake.
Description
On September 28, 2023, a routine sonar survey in the deep waters of Lake Ontario revealed an unidentified target on the lakebed. Upon further exploration two days later, using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), a 21-foot fishing boat was found. The vessel, a Boston Whaler, was well-known for its durability and seaworthiness. It was discovered with an Evinrude outboard motor, a Johnson trolling motor, and a full set of downriggers, indicating that it was regularly used for serious fishing expeditions.
History
Research following the discovery identified the boat as belonging to Mike Tanner, a local angler. On the day the boat sank, Mike and his friend Terry were fishing in Lake Ontario. As they were both busy reeling in catches near the stern, water unexpectedly flooded the back of the boat, causing it to sink rapidly. Luckily, a nearby boat, the Pisces, spotted the men and rescued them before they could be lost to the lake.
This fishing boat, though small, represents the deep connection between anglers and the challenging conditions of Lake Ontario. The vessel’s specialized fishing gear, especially the downriggers, speaks to its role in deep-water fishing, a demanding and risky pursuit on the Great Lakes.
Significant Incidents
- September 28, 2023: Initial sonar detection of the wreck.
- September 30, 2023: ROV exploration confirms the wreck’s identity.
- Incident of sinking occurred when water flooded the stern while fishing.
Final Disposition
The boat remains at the bottom of Lake Ontario. While the exact cause of its sinking remains unclear, no recovery efforts have been made. The wreck serves as a testament to the risks of fishing on the Great Lakes, where even modern, durable vessels can fall victim to the lake’s unpredictable conditions.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The fishing boat, while largely intact, is showing signs of wear typical of submerged vessels, with both wood and metal components deteriorating. The wreck is accessible to divers, although its exact location has not been publicly disclosed to protect the site from disturbance.
Resources & Links
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The discovery of this 21-foot fishing boat in Lake Ontario offers insight into the often-overlooked small vessels lost to the lake. While the sinking of Mike Tanner’s boat was not widely known, its discovery adds a personal narrative to the ongoing exploration of Lake Ontario’s maritime history. The wreck, equipped with downriggers and other fishing gear, highlights the daily risks and adventures faced by those who make a living or enjoy fishing on the lake. Continued exploration using modern technology, such as sonar and ROVs, will undoubtedly reveal more stories like this, enriching our understanding of life on the Great Lakes.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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