Search for missing fisherman called off

Police have suspended their search for fisherman Paul Barning who fell overboard his boat during a fishing competition in New South Wales. 

The 58-year-old was competing in the Game Fishing Association state tournament off the Port Stephens coast on Sunday, when he fell overboard while trying to reel in   large mako shark. 

Barning was helping his crew when became entangled in fishing wire and was dragged into the water as the shark darted back into the ocean.

After a major three-day search, NSW Police have called off the search on Tuesday morning, with his family saying they “have no words” to describe how they are feeling. 

“Despite the efforts of searchers, the man has not yet been located and the search was suspended at 5pm today and will not resume (on Wednesday),” NSW Police said.

The fisherman's wife, Leonie told 7News that the family have mixed emotions after the search was suspended, but are extremely grateful to everyone involved. 

“We just want to send out a huge thank you to everyone involved in the search and rescue, we were informed every step of the way,” she said.

“And a huge thank you to the whole fishing community. We have been overwhelmed with kindness from everyone.

“Our family meant everything to Paul, he would never hesitate to do the same for anyone else.”

It is understood the fisherman was not wearing a life jacket when he went overboard. 

Barning, a father-of-three, was an experienced game fisherman and the secretary and past president of the Port Hacking Game Fishing Club.

A GoFundMe has since been launched by NSW Game and Fishing Association president Steve Lamond, to assist Barning's family during this difficult time, with over $148,000 raised. 

“We are raising funds to assist the family through this tragic time so they can focus on processing their grief," the fundraiser read. 

“Anything you could give to assist will be greatly appreciated.”

Image: NSW Marine Rescue/ Facebook