Can you fish in Kakadu National Park?

Listed as Australia’s biggest national park, Kakadu is truly the central hub for the country’s wildlife.

Being home to a diverse range of wildlife, with fish species being in the hundreds! Making Kakadu National Park a prime fishing spot to visit!

About Kakadu

The traditional owners of Kakaku work in collaboration with Parks Australia to manage the park these days. Working together to protect the sacred sites and the wildlife living within. These days, you can head to Kakadu to discover a range of attractions within. For history buffs, the traditional owners connected to the land spans across over 50,000 years. These days, you can still see ancient historic sites hidden within, including rock art or sacred spots for traditional customs that the community still uses to this day.

For natural wonders, the bushland is dotted with stunning waterfalls, which either trickle or thunder down over the jagged clifftops, making for a truly unforgettable swim. Otherwise, you can discover the many fabulous animal and plant species scattered across the area. With the hundreds of fish species roaming both the streams, lakes, and wetlands of Kakadu.

How to Fish at Kakadu

Kakadu park’s traditional owners have put in place a series of sustainable fishing practices that must be followed when fishing at Kakadu. This ensures that there is plenty of fish stocks within the rivers for the Bininj/Mungguy and non-Aboriginal visitors to enjoy year-round. There are only certain fish regions which are available for the public, so make sure to follow the signs posted about to choose the correct fishing spots for visitors. You can pick up a measuring sticker, poster, booklet and flyer at tackle stores and retailers near popular fishing destinations.

Be aware of Crocs

The famous Saltwater Crocodile are locals in the majority of Kakaku’s wide open wetlands. Roaming about the murky waters making them easily camouflaged. Due to the crocodile’s immense size and strength, humans are easily seen as prey, with multiple croc attacks every year. On occasion, crocs have been known to hang around boat ramps, and confidently snatch up the fish that are reeled in.

Land-based fishing can also be dangerous, with crocs are known to creep up on individuals and dragging them into the water. The park advises you to stand at least 5 metres from the bank, so as not to fall prey to these dangerous creatures.

Related article: A – Z of Kakadu

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.