Police are still searching for a missing fisherman after finding his boat capsized near Hinchinbrook Island.

The 69-year-old set out for a quick fish at about 3pm yesterday in Gayundah Creek but did not return home.

Police conducted a search operation last night and found his boat at about 2.30am this morning but there was no sign of him.

The small 2 metre, tinny, that was attached to a mother vessel was significantly damaged.

The land and air search is now focusing on coastline areas and creeks and there are plans to search in the water.

Inspector Andrew Cowie says the man was only expected to go out for an hour and only had a radio on board.

He says the man was a reasonably experienced boatie and there are significant concerns for his safety.

"There are a number of environmental dangers in that area..our priority at the moment is to locate him," Inspector Cowie says.

"We have a number of resources continuing to focus on mangroves in the area."

Border Police and State Emergency Service Volunteers are among those involved in the search.

Police are asking people to keep an eye out for any signs of the 69-year-old.

Anyone heading out on the water is urged to take life jackets, a radio, epirb and flares.