The family of a young fisherman who went missing after his boat capsized has thanked emergency services and the local community for their support.

Sam Fowler, a 26-year-old plumber from Mornington, was aboard a small fibreglass boat with a friend when it overturned about 1km from Mornington Pier in Port Phillip Bay, off southeast Melbourne , about 11.15pm on Friday.

Fowler’s friend was rescued by another boat, but Fowler remained unaccounted for.

“An immediate search commenced involving Water Police, Air Wing and Uniform officers, with assistance from HEMS, Life Saving Victoria and the coast guard,” police said.

On Monday, police said the search had been scaled back as it entered its fourth day, and will be reassessed later in the week.

Fowler’s family released a statement expressin

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