The Environmental Journal of Southern Appalachia
Wednesday, 14 August 2024 17:25

Kayak fisherman drowns on Watauga River

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ELIZABETHTON — A fisherman drowned in the Watauga River on Aug. 12 after his kayak capsized. The victim was not wearing a personal flotation device, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
 
According to TWRA wildlife officers, a 31-year-old man from Watauga and another male kayaker were fishing in separate kayaks around 9 a.m. when both individuals overturned in rough water about a half mile below Wilbur Dam. One was able to make it to shore and call 911.
 
The missing angler’s body was recovered by Carter County Rescue and the Carter County Sheriff’s Office around 10:10 a.m. His identity was not immediately released.
 
This marks the 15th boating-related fatality of the year in Tennessee waters, which TWRA is tasked with patrolling.