Desperate search for fisherman after falling overboard

A search is underway for a fisherman who fell overboard during a competition off Newcastle on Sunday afternoon.

A search is underway for a fisherman who fell overboard off the Newcastle coast on Sunday.

The person fell overboard at about 1pm while taking part in a fishing competition, NSW Police said.

A multi-agency search is underway with multiple helicopters in the area searching for the fisherman.

“Crews from Water Police, Lifesaver helicopter, and Marine Rescue NSW are responding to reports a person has disappeared after falling overboard from a recreational fishing vessel 55km off the Newcastle coast,” Police said in a statement.

“Emergency services were alerted about 1.35pm, that a person had fallen overboard about 1pm during a fishing competition.”