Emergency services are urgently searching for a group of fishermen.

The three men were due back at Beachport, on South Australia’s east coast, about 2.30pm on Sunday.

Authorities raised the alarm after the group failed to return.

Police began searching the area after receiving a missing persons report.

Water Operations, PolAir, SES, other aerial assets, drones and local boaties assisted in the operation. 

Beachport, on the Limestone Coast, is a popular fishing destination for commercial and individual fishermen.

Strong winds were reported from 2.30pm with gusts peaking at 32km/h at 3.50pm. 

Light winds are forecast for Monday alongside a 70 per cent chance of rain. 

Three fishermen failed to return to shore at Beachport (above), SA, on Sunday afternoon