What to look for when choosing a fishing charter

Local fisho Craig gives us his tips and tricks for fishing in the Top End

If you need advice on fishing in the Top End, Craig's your man.

Consider the time of year you're visiting

For barra fishing, March, April and May is the famous 'run-off' season. This is an excellent time of year for targeting big barramundi at major river mouths and upstream gutters as water subsides from the floodplains.


September, October and November is another great time for barra fishing. As the weather warms up during the 'build-up', you'll find barra in the saltwater around our harbours and tributaries.

 

The 'Dry Season' June/July/August produces the goods on Pelagic and Bluewater Species due to cooler water temperatures. You can find Mackeral, Queenfish, Trevally, Sailfish, Cobia often in large numbers.

A small house with a swimming pool in front of it

Mercure Resort

A table with plates of food and a cup of tea

Cicada Lodge

Decide what type of fish you want to catch

If it’s a Day Charter you are after, first decide if you would prefer to catch an elusive top end Barramundi or a powerful Black Jewfish, Spanish Mackeral or other reef species. Both sport-fishing options are available during a day trip.


Catching a Barramundi will usually involve casting and trolling lures in a beautiful Top End Billabong or casting coastal drains from a 5-6 metre vessel with up to 4 clients in total. Your guide will pick you up and drop you off from your place of stay. Corroboree Billabong is a popular location for a day trip, with spectacular scenery, immense bird life, wild crocodiles and barramundi most often on the bite!

 

The Bluewater Reef/Sportfishing Option for reef and pelagic species will be a larger vessel likely with up to 8 clients on board, departing from Cullen Bay in Darwin or Dundee Beach on some occasions. Day trips, extended trips and Multi Day trips are available. It is common to catch big Black Jewfish, Golden Snapper, Spanish Mackeral, Trevally, Northern Bluefin Tuna and many other reef species aboard this option.

Bait, tackle & rods

If you're visiting Darwin, it's unlikely you'll have all the supplies you need. To make your life easy, check that your fishing charter supplies the gear you need for a great day on the water. That includes bait, tackle and rods.


Check with your company of choice for any specific dietary requirements and anything else you may be required to bring along on the day. Discuss your proposed fishing experience with any of the following highly recommended local fishing guides today, in the hope you will catch the big one!

A swimming pool with umbrellas and a drink on a table

Groote Eylandt Lodge

Discover more of Darwin and Surrounds

There's so much to see and do in Darwin and Surrounds. Book unique experiences, see local tips and find out what not to miss in this tropical paradise.

Find out more

Words by Captovate and photos by Mel Brautigam

A storm is coming in over the ocean at sunset.
By Justine David September 25, 2024
Exploring the Northern Territory during the wet season is an experience like no other. In this blog, we've listed all the things making the NT your perfect holiday destination, even during the Tropical Summer.
Your guide to Timor-Leste
By Michael Hawkes September 13, 2024
Find out where to go and what to do in Timor-Leste.
An aerial view of a rocky landscape with a sunset in the background.
By Justine David August 8, 2024
Ready to take advantage of your RLLT allowance and embark on an incredible adventure? Our expert travel agents are here to assist you and make your stay in the north unforgettable.
By Justine David November 22, 2023
Music, culture, fun and sun: Discover our favourite Festivals in Darwin during the dry!
A couple is walking through a cave in the desert.
By Justine David November 22, 2023
Find out the best things to do over a 4 day stay in Kununurra
A group of people are having a picnic on the beach at sunset.
By Justine David November 9, 2023
Planning a quick getaway to the Top End? Explore a suggested 5-day itinerary for you to maximize your visit to Darwin!
There are many different types of food on the table.
By Michael Hawkes November 8, 2023
Discover the perfect foodie destinations in Darwin, from serene brunch spots to our favourite local dinner restaurants.
The best staycations in the North
By Michael Hawkes November 8, 2023
Need an easy getaway? Consider a staycation for your next holiday.
By Justine David October 29, 2023
The best of both worlds
A group of people are swimming in a river.
By Michael Hawkes October 23, 2023
Not sure where to cool off in Darwin during the wet season ? Discover our fave spots !
More Posts
Share by: