Fisherman who died in boat tragedy identified as Elliston local Peter Martin

The small community where a 77-year-old man died during a fishing trip are remembering the well-known local.

The Elliston community has been rocked by the death of a local fisherman whose body was discovered at a boat ramp on the Eyre Peninsula on Saturday.

The 77-year-old has been identified as Peter Martin, a well known member of the Elliston community, where he also served as a Justice of the Peace.

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

It is believed he was checking cray pots on the trip.

The body of a 77-year-old local fisherman was found at a boat ramp at Anxious Bay on Saturday. Picture: Chris Crerar.

Elliston mayor Andrew McLeod told 7News Mr Martin, who was better known as Pedro, would be very missed by the town.

“Pedro was a well respected and loved member of our community,” he said.

“He passed away doing something that he loved – our thoughts are with this family and friends.”

Police were called after reports Mr Martin’s boat was overdue about 1.15pm on Saturday.

A search was launched, but sadly the 77-year-old was found dead in the water.

“The fisherman was believed to have been checking cray pots on the Peninsula and locals raised concern when he had not returned,” police said in a statement.

Elliston Mayor Andrew McLeod told 7News Mr Martin would be missed by the town. Picture: Supplied

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

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

The tragedy comes just days after brothers Brian, 76, and Stephen, 74, Innes were rescued from the sea off Boatswain Point near Robe when their boat capsized 2km from shore.

The pair had also been checking cray pots earlier.

Originally published as Fisherman who died in boat tragedy identified as Elliston local Peter Martin