NT DPIFM
The Department of Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines (DPIFM) ensure the most efficient use of the Territory’s fisheries, primary industries, and mineral and energy resources. The Fisheries sector works in conjunction with commercial and recreational
fishing industries as well as with indigenous communities to achieve optimum and sustainable use of the Territory’s aquatic resources.
TIP |
Please use this article as a guide only and take the time to find out more about recreational fishing rules and regulations in the Northern Territory. |
Recreational Fishing in NT
An angler does not need a licence to recreationally fish in
Northern Territory waters, however, anglers do need a temporary licence for recreational
fishing on and over Aboriginal granted lands and adjoining waters. Any enquiries regarding recreational
fishing on Aboriginal lands and adjoining waters should be directed to the
Northern Land Council (NLC) by phoning 1800 645 299.
There are many rules and regulations in place to keep recreational
fishing standards at a high level. Many are outlined on the DPIFM website and in the
NT Recreational Fishing Controls guidebook which can be downloaded in the PDF format. Specific queries regarding recreational
fishing and crabbing can be obtained by the Department's Recreational
Fishing Unit by phoning (08) 8999 2372.
Protected Species
An angler must not take cod, groper or any other fish from the genus Epinephelus if the fish is more than 1.2 metres long. Large cods are slow inquisitive creatures and would prove to be an easy catch for fishers and spearfishers. This is one of the main reasons why they are totally protected. Cods are very vulnerable when they reach a large size at a time when they are most needed for the breeding population.
Possession Limit and Fishing Closures
In the
Northern Territory, a possession limit is the very maximum number of fish that each person is allowed to have in possession at any one time (other than in their place of permanent residence). This limit is not a boat limit, a trip limit or a daily limit.
As listed in the NT Fisheries Recreation Controls guidebook, there is a great section called ‘Managed Species’ that outlines possession limits on individual species. It also provides fish size rules and specifies areas where fish can be taken, including area possession limits. For more information, please click the
NT Recreational Fishing Controls guidebook.
Noxious and Aquatic Pests
These pest species can threaten a broad range of
fishing related activities such as aquaculture, recreation and commercial fisheries. Some of these pests include Mosquito fish and Tilapia which is listed in the top 100 of the world’s worst introduced species. For more information, please click Aquatic
Pest Management
WA Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Western Australia.
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Fishing Spots in WA
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in Western Australia and provides some helpful tips.
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Fishing
Our Fishing index page includes Favourite Catches, tips for River & Estuary Fishing, Beach Fishing and Offshore fishing, as well as Fishing Rules and Regulations for every state of Australia. Next time you're off on a trip with the rods and reels, check out this page for the latest tips & information.
Fishing Spots in QLD
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in Queensland and provides some helpful tips.
Offshore Fishing
Ever wondered why some offshore boat anglers catch more quality fish than others? The main key to success lies with knowledge, experience, and of course - plenty of practice!! Like anything, developing good knowledge and habits earlier on - makes better practice. This article will give you a brief heads up on offshore fishing techniques - including rigs, technology and much more.
NSW Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in New South Wales.
VIC Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Victoria.
QLD Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Queensland.
SA Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in South Australia.
TAS Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable. This guide touches on the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Tasmania.
Fishing Spots in SA
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in South Australia and provides some helpful tips.
Fishing Spots in NT
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in the Northern Territory and provides some helpful tips.
Fishing Spots in TAS
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in Tasmania and provides some helpful tips.
Fishing Spots in NSW & ACT
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in New South Wales (including ACT) and provides some helpful tips.
Fishing Spots in VIC
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species. This article discusses some of the popular fishing spots in Victoria and provides some helpful tips.
Inland Fishing
Australia is the world’s driest inhabited continent with 70% receiving between 100 and 350mm of rainfall annually. So with such little rainfall, you may wonder whether Australia has a good freshwater fishery. This article explores Australia's inland fishing possibilities and includes a general overview of what to catch, where and how.
Beach Fishing
Put on your wet weather overalls, berley up the water and cast a 70 plus metre line to get past the breakers - this is the typical lifestyle of the dedicated beach angler. With around 7000 beaches to choose from, Australia offers plenty of opportunities to target coastal fish such as tailor, salmon and mulloway.
