An extensive search is continuing off the Isle of Lewis for two missing fishermen and their vessel after the body of a third crew member was recovered from the sea.

Police Scotland confirmed on Wednesday 14 October that the fishing boat, carrying three men, had been reported missing at around 11.35pm on Tuesday after last operating near the Port of Ness in the north of the island.

The body of one man was recovered in the area at approximately 2.45am on Wednesday, but the remaining two crew members and the vessel itself have yet to be found.

HM Coastguard, the RNLI and Police Scotland are involved in the search, with rescue teams continuing their efforts in difficult conditions.

The operation has involved coastguard aircraft, helicopters, rescue teams and lifeboats, alongside assistance from a local vessel.

Both Stornoway and Lochinver lifeboats have been involved in the response, with search activity concentrated around the northern coastline of Lewis.

The families of all three men are receiving specialist support from Police Scotland as the operation continues.

Chief Inspector Ross McCartney, local area commander for the Western Isles, acknowledged the impact the incident would have on communities throughout the islands.

He said:

“We are very aware of the impact that this incident will have on communities across the Outer Hebrides and beyond.

“I would like to reassure people that considerable efforts are ongoing between ourselves and partners to locate the vessel and the two remaining unaccounted for crew members.

“The families of all three men involved are being provided with specialist support as these searches continue.

“We know that the local community will be keen to help in any way they can.

‘However, conditions are very challenging and I would urge people not to put themselves at any risk.

“Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm.

“Instead, if you believe you may have any information which could assist emergency services then please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of 13 October.

“A police presence will remain in the Port of Ness area and if you have any concerns or information then I would urge you to speak to one of our officers.”

The search is taking place as strong winds affect parts of the Outer Hebrides, adding to the challenges facing emergency crews working at sea and along the coastline.

A Met Office yellow weather warning has been issued for the area, with powerful gusts expected during Wednesday.

Police are particularly concerned that local residents, understandably anxious to assist, could place themselves in danger by attempting independent searches along exposed stretches of coastline.

Officers have therefore asked anyone with potentially useful information to contact them rather than enter hazardous areas.

The incident has brought an anxious wait for families and communities in a part of Scotland where fishing remains closely connected to everyday life.

As the search continues, the priority for emergency services remains locating the two missing men and establishing what has happened to their vessel.

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference 3575 of 13 October 2026.