This is the moment two fishermen are swept out to sea by a strong tide after jumping from a dinghy and trying to make it to shore.

Footage shows the duo standing in the small boat while one attempts to paddle against the tide in Xiapu County, China, on November 26.

Realising their efforts are futile, they jump into the water just a few metres from the rocks where other fishermen are present.

Despite being so close to the rocks, they are unable to reach them and are dragged out to sea by the strong current as the clip ends.

Local media reported that one of the men managed to return to shore, but the other man remains missing.

Xiapu County authorities are currently searching for the lost fisherman.