Schools of salmon have unintentionally returned to their domain after a trawler carrying 50 tonnes worth sank on the New South Wales south coast this morning

The boat was moored at a wharf in Eden when it began taking on water just after 3:30am.

It was initially found partially submerged.

Firefighters worked with the owner to secure the trawler but it was taking on too much water and sank.

Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Adam Dewberry said this is a timely reminder that calling Triple Zero (000) for an emergency can be the difference between life and death.

Crews are working to now salvage the ship and the skipper was not injured.