Tasmania Police advise that the body of a fisherman has been located after a search off the north of Maria Island this afternoon.

Police were alerted about 3pm today when a commercial fisherman located the man’s boat drifting with no one on board.

The man, in his 60s, had left Triabunna this morning to go crayfishing.

Police marine and rescue resources, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, were deployed.   Recreational and Commercial vessels assisted in the search.

Sadly, the man’s body was located deceased in the water around 4pm.

“This is a tragedy for the man’s family and our thoughts are with them at this time.  Police would like to thank the fisherman who assisted with the search this afternoon.” said Inspector Gavin Hallett.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.