A major search for a fisherman missing off the coast of Kerry is continuing today.

It is believed the man fell into the sea while fishing off Kerry Head at around 8:30pm last night.

His companion jumped in after him and also got into difficulty; however, he made his way back to shore and was rescued a short time later.

A major search operation involving two Coast Guard helicopters was immediately launched.

The Shannon-based Rescue 115 and the Waterford-based Rescue 117 were joined by Coast Guard units from Glenderry and Ballybunnion.

RNLI lifeboats from Ballyheigue and Fenit are also involved.

The search is continuing this afternoon.

Meanwhile, the search for a fisherman who went missing off County Donegal has been stood down after a body was discovered shortly after 11:15pm last night.