Coast Guard rescues capsized kayaker near Oak Island

WILMINGTON, N.C. -- The Coast Guard says a 38-year-old Monroe man was rescued after his kayak overturned near Oak Island.

Authorities say the kayaker called for help about 9:40 a.m. Saturday using his handheld VHF marine radio. The man said he was fishing when his kayak capsized near Yaupon reef about 1.5 miles south of Caswell Beach.

Crew aboard a 29-foot response boat pulled the man and his kayak from the water and took him to emergency responders on Oak Island.

Petty Officer 3rd Class John Patrone says it felt great to help save a life. He says the kayaker was prepared by having a radio and wearing a life jacket. Patrone says the rescued man aided the search by staying with his kayak.

He did not identify the kayaker.

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