PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — The water rescue off of Anclote Key on Sunday has caught the attention of many boaters. 

Professional boaters want to know why a 20-foot pontoon with 13 on board was out during such a windy day. 

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We spoke to Capt. Wendy Longman, owner of Windsong Boat Charters in New Port Richey, who said she wants to see boaters use common sense, especially as we get into warmer weather. 

“It was difficult to watch,” Longman said after watching video of the rescue released by Pasco Co. Sheriff’s Office. 

“It was not anything I’d want to be in,” Longman said. “There were 4-5 foot swells out there."

 

 

The video shows the boat nearly submerged in choppy waters. It also appears the 20-foot pontoon was too full and there may not have been enough life jackets to go around. 

Longman says the situation is rare. It was also totally preventable had the boaters paid attention to the small craft advisory issued that day. 

“Know before you go. There are so many resources,” Longman said. 

She pointed out the marine forecast that Spectrum Bay News 9 issues each day online and on air. 

FWC is still investigating exactly what happened when the pontoon submerged.