CLEARWATER, FL – The U.S. Coast Guard is intensifying its search for a missing fisherman as his friend recovers in the hospital after a harrowing ordeal at sea. Pete Hands, who was rescued by a charter boat, had been treading water for nearly eight hours when found. His companion, 42-year-old Brandon Taylor, remains missing.
The incident occurred about 50 miles west of Anclote Key. Both men were thrown from their boat after it was struck by a wave early Wednesday morning. The Coast Guard and Taylor’s family continue to search tirelessly, hoping for his safe return.
Hands and Taylor embarked on their fishing trip from Anclote River Park around 3:30 a.m. A sudden wave from the north hit their boat, causing it to nosedive and throw them overboard. The vessel, on autopilot, continued without them.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Hands said he survived by controlling his breathing and maintaining hope. “I just kept telling myself to keep floating,” he recalled. Fortunately, a fishing charter, returning from assisting a passenger with heart issues, spotted and rescued Hands.
Despite the challenging conditions, Hands and Taylor attempted to stay together in the water. However, they were eventually separated by the increasing winds and waves.
Taylor’s family describes him as an avid fisherman and hunter, familiar with the waters like the back of his hand. His loved ones remain hopeful, emphasizing his resilience and determination.
The Coast Guard, along with Taylor’s friends and family, continues to search for him. “We won’t stop until we find him,” a family member stated, expressing hope for a miracle.
Hands, now recovering in the hospital, expressed gratitude for his rescue and remains optimistic about his friend’s fate.