Search for fisherman called off

A DESPERATE search for a man lost at sea off Flinders Island was called off after it was determined it was unlikely he could have survived.

The man was reported missing about 25 nautical miles off the east coast of Flinders Island about 8pm on Thursday.

The 39-year-old man from the Philippines had been working aboard a fishing vessel operating out of Victoria.

Police advised about 3.30pm on Friday that the search had been suspended.

They said after considering poor weather conditions with strong winds, cool temperatures and high swells, expert advice had determined it was extremely unlikely the man could have survived.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.