darwin barra base fishing safaris

The WILDEST Fishing Adventures in the NT

Darwin barra fishing takes you to the most incredible remote destinations.

Welcome to the Northern Territory – Barramundi heaven. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water or a heart-racing week long adventure, Darwin Barra Fishing has you covered. We’re a passionate lot of fishing experts and know all of the wildest, most scenic, remote fishing spots around Darwin and the NT.

From the picturesque wetlands of Kakadu to the abundant and varied fish-filled waters of Bynoe Harbour to the croc-infested muddy banks of the Mary River, or to the remote, untamed estuaries of Arnhem Land , our team is able to put together the perfect adventure package for you and your group.

So, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

View Our Tours

Barramundi Fishing Tours, Charters & Lodges in Darwin, Northern Territory

Are you ready to escape the big city rat race and live life, cast a lure or just wet a line in australia’s number 1 fishing mecca.

Then you have hit the right site, Welcome to Clearwater Island Lodge. One of Australia’s most sort after Barramundi fishing destinations.

Experience a once in a lifetime barra fishing adventure & tour with our Darwin charters

If you have ever dreamed about casting your fishing line and then been hit by a huge Barramundi then dream no more. Clearwater Island Lodge has now earned a global reputation as Australia’s best fishing location. But don’t take our word for it just drop us a line on (+61) 08 8978 3783    to book in your fishing adventure.

This is a true real life experience that will leave you wanting more and more.

Clearwater Island Lodge is renowned by many as being the top Sport-Fishing lodge in Australia, with our reputation stretching throughout Indonesia and other parts of the southern hemisphere for barramundi fishing and deep sea fishing.

We are located near Bathurst island, on tropical Melville Island, easily accessible via a comfortable 30-minute scenic flight from Darwin in the Northern Territory of Australia.

Because of our remoteness, you will enjoy personalized fishing adventures in pristine wilderness environments. And if it’s Barramundi you’re after, you’ve come to the right place! Barra are regular captures, many measuring well over a metre in length.

A barramundi fishing tour & lodge experience with a lot of the Northern Territory’s fish species on offer

However, there are over 52 other species of river and coastal fish in our region, including the Mangrove Jack, Spanish Mackerel, Golden Snapper, Threadfin Salmon, Giant Trevally and Queenfish amongst many more.

You’ll enjoy the experience of a lifetime, exploring the many miles of twisting mangrove rivers and estuaries, as well as some exciting reef fishing, chasing the fabulous Black Jewfish and Golden Snapper! And our blue water fishing is just as popular, with people coming just for the thrill of the blue water adventure. Indeed, you will probably never see again, such an awesome diversity of fishing options all in the one affordable place!

Book your barramundi fishing tour & charter today by getting in touch

To make a booking or find out more, do not hesitate to contact us today. Call us on (+61) 08 8978 3783  to speak with one of our helpful and friendly team, or leave your details in our contact form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Experience a once in a lifetime barra fishing adventure with our Darwin charters

If you have ever dreamed about casting your fishing line and then been hit by a huge Barramundi then dream no more. Clearwater Island Lodge has now earned a global reputation as Australia’s best fishing location. But don’t take our word for it just drop us a line on +61 08 8978 3783 to book in your fishing adventure.

“Coming from the USA, we didn’t quite know what to expect. All I can say is “wow!” It was the fishing adventure of our lifetime and aside from the magnificent fishing in the nearby estuaries and rivers, the fantastic meals we were served will remain a delightful memory for a long time.

Michael, Kerri and David treated us Americans like royalty and I have never caught so many fish in all my life!

Our trip to Australia was unbelievable, with Clearwater Island Lodge being one of the most memorable and amazing experiences.”

Stunning Lodge Accommodation

Our comfortable accommodation consists of twin-share, triple-share and double rooms, as well as one family room (double bed and bunk bed), all air conditioned for your comfort. Our relaxation area in the lodge features comfortable lounges with Pay TV and Free To Air Stations. And our bar and dining area are nestled on a cliff top, overlooking the Apsley Strait waterway, with extraordinary views at sunrise and sunset.

Now you have 7 Million Dollar Reasons Why you have to GO BARRAMUNDI FISHING at Clearwater Island Lodge! We are very excited about seeing one or many of our fishing clients catching a tagged Barramundi right here in our awesome fishing grounds on the Tiwi Islands at Clearwater Island Lodge. To Kick Off the Celebrations we … Read more »

Clearwater Island Lodge has so much to offer in 2022 when it comes to fishing adventures! From deep see fishing, reef fishing, Barramundi fishing, marine & eco cultural experiences here on the amazing Tiwi Islands whatever it is, we will cater for your dream fishing trip! Clearwater Island lodge is located on the majestic Tiwi … Read more »

Clearwater Island Lodge located in the Northern Territory is renowned for its Deep Sea Fishing Charters. It doesn’t matter if you have little experience in Deep Sea Fishing, or have never fished at all, for that matter. Clearwater Island Lodge ensures that fisherman on all levels experience the beauty and excitement of Deep Sea Fishing … Read more »

© 2024 Clear Water Island Lodge.

Website by KBB Digital

Had our first experience at Barramundi Adventures this afternoon and was pretty stoked! The kids had a awesome afternoon and are itching to get back there! Awesome services and a great afternoon! Thanks again

- Jade Harrison, Darwin, NT

About Barramundi Adventures Darwin

Barramundi Adventures Darwin (B.A.D) is a land-based barramundi-fishing farm located at the southern end of Darwin harbour in Berry Springs.

We have a boat ramp onsite and are accessible via water 20 minutes, or by road 40min from the Darwin CBD. We are unique in being the Top End’s only land-based, recreational barramundi fishing venue aimed at tourists and locals alike.

Half Day Charters – Darwin harbour fishing charters

Duration:- 4 hours

Departure Point:- Dinah Beach Boat Ramp

Price:- $275 per person

Our half day Darwin Harbour fishing charters are tailored to suit the tides, weather conditions, time of year and target species to ensure we produce the best results every time.

We will suggest the best options for you when you are looking to book.

Taking tides and conditions into account you may target  Barramundi (Barra), Queenfish, Golden Snapper, Threadfin Salmon, Spanish Mackerel, Saratoga, Jew Fish, Giant Trevally and Tuna just to list a few. Mud crabbing is also an option if you are chasing a feed of Darwin Harbour Mud Crabs.

The Darwin harbour half day charters include use of tackle and fishing equipment and light refreshments. BYO food, soft drinks & alcohol (cans only)

Obsession can cater for all size groups. Trips require a minimum of 2 people however get in touch if you don’t have a mate to go with and we can see where we have available seats.

All itineraries are subject to change without notice due to seasonal weather, tides and fishing conditions.

Drop us a line

• Bookings & Cancellations – Policies

Obsession Fishing Safaris © 2024. All rights reserved.

Barramundi Fishing NT

About top end barramundi fishing.

Darwin’s Barra Base

Darwin's Barra Base

Darwin’s Barra Base targets the biggest barramundi the Top End has to offer during its extended run-off safaris. Run-off trips to Shady Camp on the Mary River are two to five-day safaris, with clients staying at the remote Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge. If it’s trophy run-off barramundi you want, book early to secure spots for the best of the spring tides. Late in the run-off Darwin’s Barra Base does run-off barramundi safaris to the Finniss River from April to June. These safaris are from two to six days, with clients staying at the famous Dundee lodge, right at the boat ramp. Another option are three to five-day mothership safaris. After the wet season run-off ends, it is clear blue skies and beautiful cloudless days on the Top End’s famous billabongs for barramundi and saratoga action. Darwin’s Barra Base has four guide boats. Pick ups are at 4.45am to 5.15am from your Darwin accommodation, returning approx 5.30pm to 6pm. Morning tea, lunches, soft drinks, iced water and fishing tackle is supplied on a replace-if-lost basis. A bed and breakfast lodge is available in Darwin, only five minutes from the airport. Filleted fish are packed into flight freight boxes for the trip home. Safari photos are burned onto DVDs for keepsakes, and trophy barra photos are printed and laminated. For more information visit www.darwinsbarrabase.com.au

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Adelaide (and all of South Australia)
• Brisbane (and all of Queensland)
• Darwin (and all of the NT)
• Hobart (and all of Tasmania)
• Melbourne (and all of Victoria)
• Sydney (and all of NSW)
• Perth (and all of Western Australia)
• Indian Ocean
• New Zealand
• South America
• Nile Fishing
• Swains Reef Fishing Charters
• List your business

Sample Post1

Sample Post2

Fishing Charter Base

We offer online fishing charter reservations for Australia and worldwide.

Have your fishing charter and trips listed for FREE HERE.

New Listings

• Bluewater Fishing Charters
• Hot Pursuit Charters
• Total Kayak & Fishing Boat Charter
• Seaforce Charters
• Dream Raiser Sport Fishing
• Coral Sea Sportfishing Safaris
• Reel Thyme Charters
• Fishing Charter Costa Rica
• Mandiri Break Fishing & Activities

Dhipirri Barra

This one day Barra trip offers clients the unique opportunity to discover & fish the magnificent billabongs and waterways of Darwin and the Northern Territory in pursuit of the legendary Barramundi. Fishing charters operate all year round, with the exception being during the monsoon rains, which occur between late December and the end of February. Darren has extensive knowledge of the Northern Territory’s waterways and with his expertise, we are able to provide professional guidance for the beginner to the experienced angler. Our fishing charter destinations vary from awesome wetlands to magnificent billabongs. Prepare to be struck as you will witness the Territory’s superb flora and fauna.

The Run Off From February to late May

Fishing the Top End’s swollen rivers and floodplains, such as Shady Camp (Mary River), South Alligator, East Alligator (Kakadu) and Daly River. This is proven to be the most productive and explosive time of the year for barramundi fishing. Cost: $300.00pp Depart time: 5.30am Return time: 5.30pm Departure point: From your accommodation in Darwin or Palmerston area

The Dry Season From late May to late October

Fishing some of the most magnificent inland rivers and billabongs such as Corroboree Billabong, Hardy’s Lagoon, Palm Lagoon, Shady Camp, South Alligator and East Alligator (Kakadu). Once again a great time of year to catch barramundi, saratogo, tarpon and catfish. Cost: $290.00pp Depart time: 5.30am Return time: 4.30pm Departure point: From your accommodation in Darwin or Palmerston area

The Build Up/ Wet Season From October to pre-wet season

Fishing areas such as Darwin Harbour, Bynoe Harbour and many more. Fishing for barramundi, threadfin salmon, mangrove jacks, jewfish and pelagics. Cost: $290.00pp Depart time: 5.30am Return time: 4.30pm Departure point: From your accommodation in Darwin or Palmerston area

Vanderlin Island Sportfishing April to December

Experience some of the most unbelievable light game fishing in one of the most spectacular locations imaginable. Fishing for barramundi, giant GTs, spanish mackarel, golden snapper, coral trout, queen fish, tuna, mud crabs and more.

Tackle – All top quality equipment is provided to our clients. We use 6-8kg Shimano Rods, complimented with Shimano Reels Curado 200, Finn 30lb braid and Reidys lures.

Boat – Indulge yourself by fishing in comfort in our very stable, very spacious, 7.2 metre custom built barra boat. A locally made boat called an Aquarat from GS Marine. This boat is powered by a 250hp 4 stroke Suzuki and has a 300 litre fuel tank for those big trips. It is fitted out with Lowrance Sounders and GPS, comfortable swivel seats (eight different seating positions to satisfy your thirst for ultimate comfort) and a canopy. Our boat also features a large casting deck for the Fly Fisherman. For your utmost safety and peace of mind on the water, our boat is built to Northern Territory Marine Survey Requirements. Regularly checked safety equipment, maintained first aid kit and satellite phone is present in the case of any emergencies. Please note that there is a maximum limit of four persons per boat for barramundi charters. Larger parties can be arranged with notice, simply notify us of the number of anglers when booking.

Vehicle – We transfer our clients to their chosen destination in the comfort of an air conditioned, 7 seater, 4.2 Turbo diesel Nissan Patrol. Our vehicle is registered as a Tourist Vehicle, this means it is subjected to Northern Territory Government standards which features regularly checked safety equipment and maintained first aid kit.

Extended Safaris – we also offer extended safaris from 2-14 days. Cost: $600.00pp/per day (includes all meals, accommodation and fishing tackle whilst on tour) Depart time: 5.30am Return time: 5.30pm Departure point: From your accommodation in Darwin or Palmerston area

Prices: One Day Charters $300 Run Off, $290 Dry Season/Build Up/Wet Season

Maximum Passengers: 4 (Barra) 6 (Bluewater) we operate 2 x 7m boats

Minimum Passengers: 2 but we can cater for singles

Departure Time: 5:30am

Departure Point: From your Darwin/Palmerston accomodation.

Return Time: 5:30pm Run Off, 4:30pm other times

Inclusions: All lunches, morning tea, iced water, orange juice, softdrinks & fruit are provided.Tackle and bait (see above)

Company Information

Dhipirri Barra Safaris is a quality tourism product that offers clients the unique opportunity to discover the magnificent billabongs and waterways of the Northern Territory in pursuit of the legendary barramundi. Fishing charters essentially operate all year round, with the exception being during the monsoonal rains, which occur between late December to the end of February.

Barramundi are caught all throughout the year in the Top End. The more “explosive fishing generally occurs due to the wet season and the monsoonal rains. Record fish frequently being landed in the “Run Off” which usually starts in February and goes until early June. I recommend that clients book early for these periods, especially for the “run off” which has established a worldwide reputation for excellent barramundi fishing.

To take full advantage of the tremendous fishing during these times, extended trips are also highly recommended. The Top End also offers great fishing in the “Dry Season” which starts around June and finishes late October. Due to this time of year we are usually fishing in mainland billabongs and estuaries, which not only offer excellent fishing but unforgettable picturesque fauna and flora.

Reef fishing is also available all year round pending on tides. Where we will be targeting extra large Black Jew fish, Golden Snapper plus various other reef species.

We have a 7 metre customised Barra boat built to Northern Territory Marine Survey requirements with full safety equipment. This enables us to take 4 clients Barra Fishing and 6 clients Bluewater Fishing plus guide giving you maximum comfort and utmost safety.

All fishing gear is provided (except for fly fishing) and clients are welcome to bring their own. I guarantee a personalised safari that caters for fishing enthusiasts with all levels of experience. I have an extensive knowledge of the Northern Territorys waterways and with expertise to provide professional guidance for the beginner to the experienced angler.

Instructions:

What to bring: This section has not been completed yet.

What is included: This section has not been completed yet.

Darrens NT Barra Safaris

http://dhipirribarra.com.au

Contact Email

Contact Number

+61889833722

Contact Address

PO Box 290 Virginia NT 0822 Australia

Departure Location

-12.523564 131.028957

Darwin's Barra Base Northern Territory Australia

• Where to go
• Where to stay
• Things to do

Home Things To Do Northern Territory Darwin’s Barra Base

• Darwin’s Barra Base

Touring Options

• Accommodation

Darwin’s Barra Base offers complete Top End barramundi and bluewater fishing tours. Run by Allan and Heather Beale, Darwin’s Barra Base provides clients with an adventure you won’t forget. Experience the thrill of fishing for Australia’s premier sportsfish, the barramundi, along with targeting a large variety of hard fighting bluewater reef fish which include the famous jewfish, snapper, coral trout, red emperor and the pelagic fish species such as tuna, mackerel, queen fish and the giant trevally.

To seek out the barra, clients will be taken to some of the best fishing spots in the river systems, billabongs and lagoons of the Mary, Daly, Adelaide, Finniss, Howard and Elizabeth rivers. Clients also fish some of the Territory’s most remote locations where you will explore the rarely touched Territory coastline and reefs including the Tiwi, Vernon and Peron Islands as well as the great coastline of Dundee Beach and Bynoe Harbour.

Darwin’s Barra Base tailors tours based on the best dates and tides to maximise the fishing opportunities. The operators know the region well and will design a tour to meet the needs of beginners and experienced anglers alike.

1 Day Barramundi or Bluewater Fishing Trip

Enjoy an exciting one day barramundi or bluewater fishing challenge as you explore the Top End. A barramundi fishing trip can include locations such as the Mary River and the Adelaide River, while a bluewater fishing trip might visit the Tiwi Islands, Dundee Beach, Bynoe Harbour or many other fishing hotspots. Species targeted can include barramundi, jewfish, snapper, red emperor, tuna and many others, and friendly guides can cater for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

Barramundi and Bluewater Fishing Safari

Experience a fishing challenge as you go in search of premier Northern Territory sportfish, such as barramundi, jewfish, snapper, red emperor, tuna and giant trevally on a 2 to 14 day safari. An adventure can include locations such as the Mary River and the Adelaide River, the Tiwi Islands, the Adelaide River, Dundee Beach, Bynoe Harbour and many other Top End fishing hotspots. Tours can be tailored based on the best dates and tides to maximise fishing opportunities. The friendly guides cater for beginners and experienced anglers alike, know the region well, and will design an unforgettable tour to meet your needs.

Please note, Darwin’s Barra Base advise indicative rates have been displayed only, as their rates are based on the number of days and people on the tour. Please contact Darwin’s Barra Base for further details.

Website: www.darwinsbarrabase.com.au

Popular Activities

Accommodation in darwin.

Discover some of the accommodation in and around Darwin’s Barra Base

• Alatai Holiday Apartments
• Barramundi Lodge
• Beale’s Bedfish and Breakfast
• Botanic Gardens Apartments
• Cavenagh, The
• Chilli’s Backpackers
• City Gardens Apartments
• Coconut Grove Holiday Apartments
• Comfort Inn Asti Darwin
• Crab Claw Island Fishermans Village
• Crowne Plaza Darwin
• Cullen Bay Serviced Apartments
• Darwin Airport Resort
• Darwin Central Hotel
• Darwin International YHA
• Dragonfly House
• Feathers Sanctuary
• Frangipanni Bed and Breakfast
• FreeSpirit Resort Darwin
• Frogshollow Backpackers Darwin
• Globetrotters Lodge
• Grungle Downs Tropical Bed and Breakfast
• Holiday Inn Darwin
• Holiday Inn Esplanade Darwin
• Marina View Serviced Apartments
• Marrakai Luxury All Suites
• Mediterranean All Suite Hotel
• Melaleuca on Mitchell
• Mirambeena Resort Darwin
• Novotel Atrium Darwin
• Palms City Resort
• Parap Village Apartments
• Paravista Motel
• Peninsular Apartments
• Poinciana Inn
• Quality Hotel Frontier
• Saville Park Suites
• SKYCITY Darwin
• Top End Hotel

More Tours In Darwin

Discover some of the tours options around Value Inn

• AAT Kings (Top End)
• Acacia Luxury Transport
• ACP Fishing Charters
• Adventure Tours Australia
• All Terrain Safaris
• Andros Leisure Charters
• Anglers’ Choice Fishing Safaris
• Arafura Safaris
• Aussie Adventure Holidays
• Australasian Jet, Darwin
• Australian Adventure Travel
• Australian Harbour Cruises
• Barramundi Fishing Charters Darwin
• Barrier Air Charter
• Billy Can Tours
• Born Free Tours
• Brookes Australia Tours
• Cannon Charters
• Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises
• City of Darwin Cruises and Top End Saltwater Adventures
• Cullen Bay Charters
• Darwin Barra Fishing Tours
• Darwin Day Tours
• Darwin Dive Centre
• Darwin Harbour Cruises
• Darwin Harbour Fishing Charters
• Darwin Reef ‘n’ Wrecks Fishing Charters
• Didgeri Air Art Tours
• Double Decker Tours
• Equinox Fishing Charters
• Exploring Oz
• Far Out Adventures
• Fishing and Outdoor Adventures
• Goanna Eco Tours – Famous Jumping Crocs Plus Litchfield Park Waterfalls
• Guru’s Top End Fishing Safaris
• Island Explorer Charters
• Lure One Fishing Charters
• Mark Wests Hooked on Fishing Safaris
• Match The Hatch Guided Fly Fishing
• Odyssey Tours and Safaris
• Orion Expedition Cruises
• River and Reef Fishing Charters
• ROC Tours Australia
• Sacred Earth Safaris
• Skyfire Fishing Charters NT
• Spirit Doctor, The
• Spirit Of Darwin Harbour Cruises
• Telmar Tours
• Terra Australis Safaris
• Territory Charters
• Tiwi Art Network
• Top End Expeditions
• Top End Tandems
• Unique Indigenous Land Tours
• VIP Touring (Top End)
• Wayward Bus Touring Company
• Wilderness 4WD Adventures
• World Expeditions

Add Your Insights

Share your inside knowledge, whether it be good places to stay or eat nearby, unusual places to visit in the area and any other useful information about this destination that does not normally appear in brochures or websites.

Explore The Outback

Australia has a vast remote interior, much of it largely untouched. By night, the outback is deathly quiet, with the only light provided by the stars and the moon - a perfect oportunity for stargazing. Explore the isolated heart of the country, meet and connect with Aboriginal people and experience one of the oldest living cultures in the world. Go ‘walk-about’ and immerse yourself with Australia’s endless outback horizons.

Australia's Natural Wonders

Australia is a land of immense and diverse natural beauty. You'll see things here that you just won't see anywhere else in the world. Each corner of Austalia has an endless array of stunning natural landmarks just waiting for you to take the time to explore.

Australia has wide variety of accommodation options to suit most budgets and travelling preferences. Choose from luxury lodges, boutique hotels, serviced apartments, motels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks as well as youth and backpacker hostels.

Australia's Best Islands

Around the coast of Australia there are many amazing islands that are an unforgetable pleasure for all who visit. Naturally, the Great Barrier Reef dominates any list of great Australian islands, with pristine wonders like the Whitsundays, Dunk Island and Lizard Island. Further off the east coast is the spectacular Lord Howe Island and off the coast of South Australia is the unspoilt Kangaroo Island.

Popular Things To Do

Discover some of this month's most popular Australian experiences.

TODAY'S TOP TOURS

• Kimberley Wild Expeditions
• About The Bush By Jingo
• Stardancer Sailing Cairns
• Come Fossicking Take a Wee-Brek
• Ningaloo Blue Charters
• Westbound Australia
• Skydive Airlie Beach
• Gray Line Alice Springs
• High Country Horses
• Opal Air Pty Ltd
• Wild Ride Harley & Motorcycle Tours
• Sounds of Silence Ayers Rock Resort
• Whitsunday Quad Bike Bush Adventures
• Murray Aquaculture

THIS MONTH'S TOP TOURS

• Summerland Surf School
• Wandering The Lake Cruises
• Capricorn Coast Trail Rides
• Macka’s Barra Camp
• Captain Cook Cruises – MV Reef Endeavour
• Hel-a-va Jet Boats
• Wadda Tourism Pty Ltd
• Petra’s Tailor Made Tours
• Coral Princess Cruises
• Camel Tours & Treks SA
• Kimberley Birdwatching Tours
• Oz Experience

• New South Wales
• Blue Mountains
• Broken Hill
• Coffs Harbour
• Darling Harbour
• Hunter Valley
• Lord Howe Island
• Port Macquarie
• Port Stephens
• Snowy Mountains
• Tweed Heads
• ... More NSW Destinations
• Airlie Beach
• Cape Tribulation
• Coolangatta
• Fraser Island
• Mission Beach
• Port Douglas
• Rockhampton
• Sunshine Coast
• Whitsunday Region
• ... More QLD Destinations
• Port Arthur
• ... More TAS Destinations
• Bells Beach
• Mornington Peninsula
• Phillip Island
• Port Campbell
• Warrnambool
• ... More VIC Destinations
• Northern Territory
• Alice Springs
• Uluru/Ayers Rock
• Kings Canyon
• ... More NT Destinations
• South Australia
• Adelaide Hills
• Kangaroo Island
• Flinders Ranges
• Outback South Australia
• Port Lincoln
• Yorke Peninsula
• Wilpena Pound
• ... More SA Destinations
• Western Australia
• Margaret River
• ... More WA Destinations
• Caravan Parks
• Caravan Parks in NSW
• Caravan Parks in QLD
• Caravan Parks in VIC
• Caravan Parks in SA
• Caravan Parks in WA
• Caravan Parks in NT
• Hostels + Backpackers
• Backpackers in NSW
• Backpackers in QLD
• Backpackers in VIC
• Backpackers in SA
• Backpackers in WA
• Backpackers in NT
• Experiences By State
• Nothern Territory
• Australian Experiences
• Luxury Australian Experiences
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Scenic Flights
• Scuba Diving
• 4WD Outback Adventures
• Australian Motorcycle Tours
• Australian Walking Tours
• City Walking Tours
• Chocolate Walking Tours
• Shopping Tours
• Learn To Surf in Australia
• Winery Tours
• Horse Riding
• Australia's Best Beaches
• Bondi Beach
• Cable Beach
• Cottesloe Beach
• Four Mile Beach
• Gold Coast Beaches
• Hyams Beach
• Manly Beach
• Ninety Mile Beach
• Noosa Beach
• Scarborough
• Surfers Point
• Whitehaven Beach

• Latest News
• Environment
• Fishing Journeys
• How to Videos
• Boating Bits
• New Products
• Product Reviews

Blog: 5-Day Barra to Sailfish Safari

FISHO was contacted this week by Allan Beale of Darwin’s Barra Base Fishing Safaris , who recently hosted Danielle and Anthony Ellis on a five day “Barra to Sailfish Pelagics Bluewater Fishing Safari”.

According to Beale, the Ellis’s had such a great experience they wrote all about it on their blog. He sent us a link to the blog to share with Fisho readers. 

Below is an excerpt – the full blog can be read in full via the link at the bottom.

5 Day Barra to Sailfish Safari with Darwin’s Barra Base Righto….my turn to pen the blog this week given the nature of last weeks activities.

I have always wanted to fish the Daly River in the Territory for Barramundi, so we searched the net and found a live aboard charter that was leaving Darwin on Monday the 26th, perfect timing for us as we had time to drive the 860km from Kunnunurra and get there in time for an early departure.

We arrived at Darwin’s Barra Base late Sunday night and met our hosts, Allan and Heather Beale. We also met and Gordon and Anne, a lovely couple from NZ who were also coming on the safari. We had a quick bite to eat then loaded the boat with our fishing gear and went straight to bed as we had a 4am start the next day.

Monday We woke at 4am, hooked up the two 7.8m tinnies and headed down the Stuart highway to the Daly River. We arrived at the river about 8am and launched the boats quickly realising we were not alone, the annual Daly River “Barra Classic” fishing competition was in full swing and there were boats everywhere. One of the fishermen in the comp told us the Barra had been scarce but our guides had many years of fishing this region so we were hopeful of a meter plus Barra.

We soon had the lures in the water after a short trip down stream and began fishing amongst the snags and crocs, which were everywhere! We tried all sorts of lures and techniques and eventually I hooked up to a big Barra but the fight was short as it took me under one of the many snags and it broke off. Needless to say I was filthy!

We did see two metre plus fish caught by another boat, one of which was attacked by a bull shark soon after being released and had its tail bitten off, amazing given we are 75km from the ocean! Another boat picked up what was left of the Barra with a net and it was 90cm long even though the shark had bitten off the back end of the fish behind the second dorsal fin, it must have been about 1.2m long.

We continued down the Daly and fished every snag, creek and rock bar without success but did see some amazing sights, the most memorable was a massive school of mullet that were being chased by some predators. We threw lures into the teeming fish that flitted everywhere in all directions when the lure hit the water. Allan was convinced Barra were there and then to our amazement, a five meter croc launched out of the water and gulped up dozens of the foot long mullet just near our boatside. This was incredible to see given we were in 2 feet of water!!!

The sun was getting low so we decided to crack open the beers and enjoy the 20km steam down to the head of the Daly which was an iced coffee colour due to the massive run out tide. We arrived at “Humbug”, a 40 foot catamaran and met Scotty, the owner, and had tea and went to bed as were were all stuffed.

Tuesday Allan suggested we head to Dockerty’s Creek which is 40km west of the mouth of the Daly to chase Barra as this waterway feeds straight into the sea and should not be as dirty as the Daly, so off we went. The tide was going out and we just made it over the mud flats and started fishing, we toiled all day and only managed 3 Barra and some blue salmon despite masses of bait fish inside the creek.

This creek had obviously been netted by the commercial boats the day before as we saw them setting their nets at the next creek on the way in. Frustrating given they set their nets across the mouth of the river and catch all the Barra, usually pulling out tonnes at a time. We headed back to Humbug for a feed of fish, a few beers and early to bed as we had another early start.

Gordon and Anne managed to catch a Barra as well which was great to see, even though we were having a friendly competition between the two boats.

Read the full blog and view more images at: http://ellisnorthwestadventure.blogspot.com/2014/05/daly-river-fishing-safari.html

Fishing World

What's your reaction.

Related Posts

Penn Fishing comp winner

Truck crash spills 77,000 fish into river

Consultation for year-round cod fisheries in Victoria

2024 marks 55 years for Sydney International Boat Show

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Welcome, Login to your account.

Welcome, Create your new account

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

Darwins Barra Base

Location & hours.

Suggest an edit

2 Todd Cres

Malak Northern Territory 0812

About the Business

Darwins Barra Base, your Darwin fishing centre for barramundi and barra & bluewater safaris in the NT. …

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Hilton Hotels Near Me

Hotels Near Me

Other Hotels Nearby

Find more Hotels near Darwins Barra Base

Related Articles

Top 100 places to stay in Texas

Yelp’s Top 100 US Hotels

Related Cost Guides

Audio/Visual Equipment Rental

Face Painting

Karaoke Rental

Party Equipment Rentals

Wedding Chapels

• 5 More Cost Guides