Lifeboat crews are searching after unattended fishing rods found in Portrush

A search operation is underway after two unattended fishing rods were discovered near rocks at the Blue Pool in Portrush, Co Antrim.

Local coastguard teams, the RNLI lifeboat and the Irish Coastguard helicopter based at Sligo have all been tasked to the scene amid fears the fisher has fallen into the water.

The abandoned fishing rods were spotted by a member of the public who called the Belfast Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at just after 11am on Saturday.

As yet, the owner has not been found.

Belfast Coastguard Watch Manager Ian Murdock said: “Until we find out that the owner of the fishing rods is safe and well we have to assume the worst.

“If you were fishing at the Blue Pool last night or early this morning please call the coastguard, particularly if you left some equipment behind.”

Mr Murdock highlighted the dangers of fishing from rocks.

He continued: “Rocks can be dangerous and slippery so please consider whether there is anywhere safer to fish.

“Because there is little to hold on to even a small wave can wash you off in to the sea and so the coastguard recommends that when fishing from rocks you wear a suitable floatation device, you check weather and tidal conditions and tell someone on shore where you are going and what time you plan to be back.

“If you don’t return on time ask them to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”