‘Loved by everyone he met’: Tributes for beloved Elliston fisherman Peter Martin

A popular Elliston fisherman has been fondly remembered by loved ones and community after his sad death at the weekend.

A beloved Elliston fisherman who died in a devastating boating accident last weekend on the Eyre Peninsula has been described as a prankster and “an amazing man” by family.

Peter Martin, 77, who was also known as Pedro in the community, was out checking cray pots before tragedy struck last Saturday.

His niece Ruth Barratt said Mr Martin was loved “by everyone he met”.

“Everywhere you go across Australia you’ll find someone who knew Peter Martin. He was loved by everyone he met,” she said. “Straight up honest man and a prankster.”

Ms Barratt said he died “doing what he loved”.

Mr Martin was last seen launching from the Anxious Bay boat ramp near Elliston.

Anxious Bay boat ramp near Elliston. Picture: 7NEWS

Locals raised the alarm when Mr Martin’s boat was overdue on Saturday.

Police and the community searched for the 77-year-old but sadly found the man dead in the water.

“It was a tragic accident and the whole town of Elliston is feeling the loss and grieving …” Ms Barratt said.

“He had a fantastic life. But we still grieve his loss.”

Elliston mayor Andrew McLeod on Sunday told 7News Mr Martin was a well-respected and loved member of the community who would be missed by the town.

The local hotel cancelled its Sunday lunch service following the tragedy and invited the community to instead come together at the venue.

The tragedy comes just days after brothers Brian and Stephen Innes were rescued from the sea near Robe when their boat capsized 2km from shore.

They were also checking cray pots on the trip.