Search crews were expected back at Port Kembla this morning, for the fifth day of the operation to find a Sydney fisherman swept into the ocean on Sunday.
Divers, two water police boats, a police helicopter and the aerial patrol searched in vain yesterday morning only finding some of the man's personal belongings.
Lake Illawarra Police Inspector Greg Mahon said the divers had discovered the man's wallet, some of his clothing and fishing gear lying on the sea floor.
The air-search began with the plane and helicopter flying several kilometres out to sea.
SLIDESHOW: Search launched for missing fisherman
Vigil for angler washed off Port Kembla rocks
Rock fishing accidents on the South CoastThe helicopter then did several low, slow flyovers between Red Point and Port Kembla Harbour's eastern breakwall, as heavy rain set in and visibility was reduced.
Police said yesterday and today were the most likely days to find the man's body floating in the ocean.
They expected to find it close to where he was last seen on Sunday about 9.30pm - in the water near the rock shelf off Port Kembla Heritage Park.
The 28-year-old Hurlstone Park fisherman's wife and family were at the site again yesterday, lighting incense on the rocks where he had been fishing with a friend.
They knew yesterday was the day he was most likely to be found.
"I hope they find him," said his wife, who asked not to be identified.