A search operation has resumed for a missing fisherman who was reportedly dragged overboard while attempting to capture a fish in a recreational competition at sea.
Witnesses stated the man, identified as Paul Barning, was pulled into the water after getting caught in a line at about 1pm on Sunday 23 February.
The incident occurred about 55km (30 nautical miles) east of Newcastle.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Stephens were tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command to assist in a multi-agency operation that afternoon.
Further vessels, Terrigal 30 and Newcastle 30, will also lend their assistance.
NSW Game Fishing Association president Steve Lamond, who said he had known Mr Barning for 20 years, described the Sunday afternoon incident as a freak accident.
“He was basically dragged overboard, underwater and disappeared,” he explained.
“He was tragically lost at sea in the most unlikely of circumstances while fishing on his boat.”
It was earlier reported that Mr Barning was caught in a fishing line and was attacked by a shark.
But, Mr Lamond flatly dismissed that suggestion.
“I urge all members, their families and friends to refrain from speculation,” he said.
An NSW Ambulance spokesperson said the initial report it received about Mr Barning included a claim that he had been taken by a shark.
The accident highlighted the risks involved in the sport of game fishing, Mr Lamond added.
Emergency crews and rescue helicopters were dispatched to the area when the search for the missing man restarted early on Monday 24 February.
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