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A Delta fisherman is presumed dead after he fell into the Fraser River at a popular access point just off of Old Orchard Road.

Police say the 33-year-old man was fishing Tuesday afternoon when he slipped from the rocks on which he was standing and fell into the water.

A friend jumped into the river to try and help, but had to be saved himself by a nearby boater. Chilliwack Search and Rescue immediately started a search, but was unable to find the man. As dusk fell, his body had still not been found, despite help from local fishermen and a police helicopter. The search will recommence today.

RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Lea-Anne Dunlop said the death is a reminder about the danger of water and the importance of wearing a lifejacket, even when standing near shore.

The man is just one of several fishermen to have fallen in the Fraser in recent weeks as record numbers of sockeye salmon have drawn hundreds of anglers to the river's shores.

tolsen@chilliwacktimes.com