Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Searcher
- Type: Commercial Fishing Vessel
- Year Built: 1946
- Builder: Information not found
- Dimensions: Details not available
- Registered Tonnage: Not available
- Location: Lake Michigan, near Chicago, Illinois
- Coordinates: Not available
- Official Number: Not available
- Original Owners: Not available
- Number of Masts: Not available
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Searcher was a commercial fishing vessel operating on the Great Lakes. Such vessels were typically designed to withstand the challenging conditions of the lakes while providing ample space for storing catches and equipment.
Description
Built in 1946, specific details about the Searcher’s construction, dimensions, and design are not readily available. However, as a commercial fishing vessel, it would have been equipped to handle the rigors of Great Lakes fishing operations.
History
On December 27, 1985, the Searcher was returning to Chicago from a fishing expedition when it encountered a severe storm on Lake Michigan. The vessel began taking on water amidst heavy winds and high seas. Despite efforts to manage the situation, the Searcher foundered, leading to the tragic loss of three crew members.
Significant Incidents
- December 27, 1985: The Searcher foundered during a storm, resulting in three fatalities out of six crew members.
Final Disposition
The Searcher sank in Lake Michigan during the storm. There is no publicly available information regarding salvage operations or recovery of the vessel.
Current Condition & Accessibility
As of current records, the wreck of the Searcher has not been located or identified.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”searcher-1946″ title=”References & Links”]
The sinking of the Searcher serves as a somber reminder of the perils faced by those who work on the Great Lakes. Despite advancements in technology and safety, the unpredictable nature of the lakes can still lead to tragic outcomes.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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