Fisherman's body found off Qld coast

The body of a fisherman has been found in waters off far north Queensland.

The 65-year-old was found dead in the water on Tuesday afternoon northeast of Cardwell, which is between Cairns and Townsville, police said.

Helicopters and rescue boats began a search after the man's boat was found near Hinchinbrook Island, off Cardwell, on Tuesday morning.

The fisherman, who hasn't been named, had left Cardwell alone about 4am on Tuesday, a police spokeswoman said.

A report is being prepared for the coroner.