Experts say it is highly likely that a missing fisherman in the Hinchinbrook Island area was killed by a crocodile.

The search continued today for the 69-year-old man, who failed to return home yesterday afternoon.

Police say he set out from Gayundah Creek in a 2 metre tinny with only a radio on board as he planned to only be out for an hour.

Officers found his dingy capsized near the mouth of the creek at about 2.30 this morning but there was no sign of him.

Specialists from the Department of Environment and Science examined the vessel and believe a crocodile is responsible for the damage.

Wildlife officers are now searching for the reptile and will continue making site assessments well into the evening.

Anyone who sees a crocodile in the area is urged to report it QWildlife app.