The fish tug Ruby Ann breaking her way out of Beaver Island, Michigan. The island had run dangerously low on gas. It was imperative that gas be brought to the island in Northern Lake Michigan.
The only chance they had was if this little fishing vessel could break free into open water and return with fuel to heat homes on the island.
The fishermen ran it so far up on the ice that they took on water through the stern doors. The pump had a hard time keeping up.
If they were to get stuck up on the ice or not break through in time, they were certain to sink beneath the icy waters. http://www.fishtug.com/forums/gallery