A desperate search is underway for an experienced fisherman who failed to return after a marlin fishing trip.

Queensland Police believe Ash Haigh, a 44-year-old man from Hollywell, set out in his vessel from the Gold Coast Seaway about 6.30am on Thursday.

The black half-cabin pleasure craft successfully booked on with the tower but failed to book off about 5pm, prompting authorities to alert Water Police about 7pm.

Water Police said searches of the surrounding areas and seaways as well as attempts to make contact with the vessel over the radio continued into the night.

About 2am on Friday, a boat was found 25 nautical miles southeast of the seaway with no one onboard.

The vessel was in a “fairly good” condition, though there was some water in the hull, Gold Coast Water Police Sergeant Shannon Gray said.

He said sea conditions on Thursday and overnight were favourable, with light winds and minimal swell.

Gray said Haigh is a highly experienced game fisherman, well known in the industry, with extensive marine experience.

Police found three life jackets on the vessel and received unconfirmed reports suggesting that there may have been a fourth on board.

“It could be a case that he is wearing a life jacket — we’re unsure — and that’s the best-case scenario, as it will give him a better chance if he is in the water with that life jacket on,” Gray said.

Gray also said there were two boarding ladders on the boat, with one found lowered into the water.

Haigh’s wallet was found in his car parked nearby, while his phone has not been located.

The search is expected to continue through the night and into Friday morning.

At least three search-and-rescue helicopters have been deployed to help with the operation.