The 2025 Clear Lake Splash-In featured an impressive gathering of unique aircraft, industry experts, and enthusiastic participants.
Billed as the “The West Coast’s Premier Seaplane Gathering,” the Splash-In was held April 25-27, 2025, at Skylark Shores Resort in Lakeport, California.
Among the Splash-In’s highlights were two vintage amphibious aircraft from Arizona: Tod Dickey’s Grumman Widgeon and Mike Pullman’s 1947 Republic RC-3 Seabee.
Both pilots not only traveled across state lines to participate, but also delivered presentations about their historic aircraft during the educational seminars held at the Lakeport Yacht Club, according to Splash-In organizers.
The Splash-In provided valuable experiences for young aviation enthusiasts. Jacob Thomsen Jr., an 11-year-old participant in the Clear Lake Flying Club’s Introduction to Aviation program, volunteered on the seaplane ramp and was rewarded with flights in Gibson Howell’s Lake Buccaneer and Dickey’s Widgeon.
Steve McCaughey, executive director of the Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA), moderated a panel discussion on “The Future of the Clear Lake Splash-In,” which explored options for expanding the seaplane infrastructure in the region.
Brian Hylland, product development manager of Bellingham Marine, presented proposals for a dedicated seaplane dock in Lakeport. Local government officials, including Lakeport Mayor Kim Costa and other city officials, attended the presentation, demonstrating strong community interest in developing seaplane tourism infrastructure, organizers noted.
The event culminated with an Italian-themed awards dinner and movie screening that celebrated Italy’s seaplane heritage. Attendees viewed a special video created by Aero Club Como, the world’s oldest seaplane club, specifically for the 2025 Clear Lake Splash-In.
Video footage of the event, including drone coverage created by David Noland of HD Video Creations, is available on YouTube.
Additional photographs of the event are available AerialArchives.PhotoShelter.com
For more information: ClearLakeSplashIn.com
