Saginaw Bay Rescue Saves Injured Fisherman Near Heisterman Island

A Cass City fisherman was rescued by airboat after injuring his hip on a disabled boat in Saginaw Bay. Coordinated efforts by local responders and the Coast Guard ensured safe transport to the hospital, emphasizing multi-agency efficiency.

Swift airboat Saginaw Bay rescue response saves injured fisherman near Heisterman Island in Saginaw Bay. Airboat rescue launched after disabled boat leaves fisherman injured near Heisterman Island in Saginaw Bay; Coast Guard tows partner and boat back to shore.

Saginaw Bay Fisherman Injured, Rescued by Airboat in Fairhaven Township

In a dramatic water rescue on the chilly waters of Saginaw Bay, a Cass City man was rescued by airboat after injuring his hip while attempting to restart a disabled 14-foot boat west of Heisterman Island. The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. on May 12, according to the Huron County Sheriff’s Office.

In a press release issued this evening, Sheriff Kelly J. Hanson confirmed the response was initiated after a distress call was made to Huron Central Dispatch. Emergency responders quickly coordinated an airboat launch to reach the injured man, whose companion remained on board the vessel until the U.S. Coast Guard arrived.

Airboat Deployed from Mud Creek Public Access by First Responders

Mud Creek - Saginaw Bay Rescue — Mud Creek

As the disabled boat floated near Heisterman Island, first responders sprang into action. A deputy from the Huron County Sheriff’s Office deployed to Mud Creek Public Access, where the Caseville Fire Department brought the department’s airboat.

Scheurer Ambulance personnel were also on the scene. Together, the agencies coordinated the delicate water rescue. The injured man, in visible pain from what was later identified as a dislocated hip, was transported back to land using the airboat and handed off to awaiting ambulance crews. He was taken to Scheurer Hospital for treatment.

The smooth coordination between local law enforcement, fire personnel, and EMS teams underscored the importance of multi-agency response capabilities in rural parts of Michigan, where conditions on the water can quickly become hazardous.

Coast Guard Assists in Safe Return of Second Fisherman and Boat

While one fisherman was transported to the hospital, the other remained on the stranded boat until the United States Coast Guard arrived. The Coast Guard towed the 14-foot craft and the second fisherman back to Bay Port, completing the rescue operation without further injuries.

Michigan Boaters Reminded to Stay Alert During Unpredictable Spring Conditions

This incident comes as a stark reminder of how spring weather in Michigan can present unpredictable challenges on the water. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, cold water, high winds, and engine malfunctions are common causes of boating distress early in the season.

As temperatures rise and more residents return to the Great Lakes and inland waters, officials urge boaters to conduct thorough equipment checks, wear life jackets, and stay within range of emergency support services. Though this rescue ended safely, not all stories have such a positive outcome.

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