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The body of one of the three Yakama fishermen missing on the Columbia River was recovered Sunday morning, authorities and relatives said.

James Peter Jr., known as "JJ," was found floating about 8 a.m. on the west side of the mouth of the Wind River where it meets the Columbia.

The crew's fishing vessel had been found on the east side of the river's mouth on May 7, the day after they were last seen going to check their nets.

Still missing are Gailen Espirito and Rommel Strom.

Tony Washines, an uncle of one of the men still missing, said finding Peter's body buoys searchers' hopes that they are working in the right area, although they do not plan to limit the search zone.

Washines, who is helping to coordinate the search camp, said Peter's body was found near one of the body-recovery nets that had been put in place near the beginning of the search.

He said the search volunteers who found the body were the first crew to go out Sunday morning.

Charles Hudson, a spokesman for the Columbia River Inter-tribal Fish Commission, said vessels from the Warm Springs tribe and a volunteer Warm Springs crew were at the location when search officials arrived. Another report indicated that a non-Indian sport fisherman also called 9-1-1 to report he had seen the body, Hudson said.

The search for the remaining men is expected to continue today.

Hudson said the Yakama Nation has taken over leading the effort, with support from Skamania County, the fish commission and other agencies.

A camp and command post continues to draw between 100 and 200 searchers and family members daily, Washines said.

He expressed gratitude for all the help the families have received. Everyone from passing motorists to residents, tribes and groups across the country has donated money or other support, he said.

"It just amazes us that we have so many who rallied together and helped one another," Washines said.

* Mark Morey can be reached at 577-7671 or mmorey@yakimaherald.com.