Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Pulls Hartwell Angler From Frigid Waters

According to bassmaster.com, a Bassmaster Elite Series pro likely saved a man’s life after pulling him from the frigid waters of Lake Hartwell on Sunday, Feb. 15.

David Walker, of Sevierville, Tenn., was practicing for this week’s Bassmaster Classic when he noticed a man in the water. David was able to quickly get to the man, and with the use of his back ladder get the man in the boat and to a nearby ramp where police and an ambulance were waiting. It’s believed the unidentified man forgot to put the plug in his boat, and it sunk.

Bassmaster reports that hypothermia causes around 1,500 deaths a year in the United States. Body heat is lost much quicker in water, and death can occur in as few as 15 minutes in water temperatures near freezing.

With cold weather still in the forecast, it’s a great reminder that it’s always a good idea to fish with a partner. Also, it’s a smart idea to keep your life jackets on this time of year.

For the full story on the Hartwell rescue, go to Bassmaster.