A search is underway for a man believed to have been swept off rocks in Malabar, in Sydney's east.
The man, aged in his 30s, was reported missing by his companion, who had momentarily left the rocks but managed to return to safety.
When he did, his friend was gone.
Local police were called to the area at about 9.25am, and the search involves the force's Marine Area Command, the Westpac Helicopter and surf lifesavers.
His fishing equipment was found a short time later.
It's unclear if he was wearing a life jacket.
Last month, Emergency Services Minister David Elliott announced that rock fisherman from Clovelly to La Perouse would be breaking the law if, from December 1, they were not wearing life jackets.
That region is the state's most dangerous stretch of coastline, with 17 anglers losing their lives in the last decade.
There is a 12-month grace period before fisherman are slapped with a $100 fine for not wearing the jacket.
Malabar beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.
