SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — The search for a missing fisherman off of Walker's Point in Kennebunkport has been suspended.
The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern New England issued a press release the Saturday morning, saying it suspended its search for Scott Cluff on Friday evening after looking more than 700 square nautical miles with Maine Marine Patrol, the Kennebunk Police Department, York County, and the Cape Porpoise Harbormaster.
The Coast Guard originally received a report at 6:40 p.m. Thursday of a 64-year-old man who hadn't returned to the Turbats Creek Road boat ramp in Kennebunkport, according to a release from the agency.
Officials said Cluff had left the boat ramp Thursday morning in a 12-foot aluminum skiff to haul lobster traps between Walker's Point and Cape Porpoise and was familiar with the area.
Early Friday morning, search crews found debris including a plastic tote, lifejacket, and boot along the shoreline, officials said. Search crews also found the fisherman's skiff overturned on the rocks at Walker's Point Friday morning.
During a press briefing at 1 p.m. Friday, the Coast Guard said it was still considering its efforts a search and rescue mission, but time was a concern with the water temperature being around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Coast Guard issued an urgent marine information broadcast (UMIB) and deployed a motor lifeboat, helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, fast response cutter, and two drones in the search, according to officials.
On Saturday morning, the Coast Guard noted how difficult it is to call off a search.
"Suspending a search for a family’s loved one is one of the hardest decisions I must make. My deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends during this difficult time," Capt. Amy Florentino said in a press release.
More NEWS CENTER Maine stories
For the latest breaking news, weather, and traffic alerts, download the NEWS CENTER Maine mobile app.