Smashed against rocks: 77-year-old fisherman saved off Port Stephens

A FISHERMAN has been flown to hospital after an overnight rescue off Port Stephens.

Police have hailed the 77-year-old man's preparations before heading out as potentially keeping him alive amid "challenging conditions".

Authorities were called about 6pm on Wednesday after the man failed to return home.

A search effort including Marine Rescue NSW, water police and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service discovered an overturned vessel about 8.30pm roughly 400 metres west of Fingal lighthouse.

Police said it had been smashed against rocks.

The man, wearing a life jacket, was found in the water nearby a short time later.

A Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service spokesman said he was "located clinging to debris" after about four hours in the water, with the helicopter guiding boats to his position.

NSW Police Marine Area Command crime manager, Detective Inspector Jane Prior said the fisherman's readiness for disaster had likely proved the difference.

"This outcome highlights how simple safety precautions can make a life-saving difference," Det Insp Prior said.

"The man was wearing a life jacket and had also told someone what time he expected to return.

"Those actions were critical and very likely saved his life."

Detective Inspector Prior said that the person anticipating the fisherman's return was able to raise the alarm quickly because they knew he had not arrived on time.

She said that allowed emergency services to scramble and locate him in time in 15-knot southerly wind and a 2.5-metre southerly swell.

Police carried the 77-year-old back to Nelson Bay behind a Marine Rescue NSW vessel that acted as a break against the large swells.

The man was treated by a Westpac helicopter doctor and NSW Ambulance paramedics at the waterfront.

He was taken to Tomaree Hospital before transferring to John Hunter Hospital.

Police said he had hypothermia and abrasions.

Detective Inspector Prior said the lucky escape sent a clear message to other skippers.

"We urge all boaters to wear a life jacket and to log on and off with Marine Rescue NSW every time you head out on the water - it could make all the difference in an emergency," she said.