Kakadu is a popular destination for fishing and boating, with a variety of fish to catch, including the famous barramundi.
It is a great place to go out on the water with friends and family and enjoy nature.
Sustainability
Visitors are encouraged to practice sustainable fishing and exercise caution while boating and fishing in Kakadu, as requested by the park’s Traditional Owners. Fishing in Kakadu is considered both enjoyable and a privilege.
Kakadu has similar fishing regulations to the Mary River and Daly River, and practicing sustainable fishing methods like catch and release will help maintain healthy fish populations for both Bininj/Mungguy and non-Aboriginal visitors in the future.
To preserve the hunting grounds of Kakadu’s Traditional Owners, please limit fishing to designated areas for locals and travellers.
Safety
Saltwater crocodiles are present in all of Kakadu’s fishing waterways. It is important for visitors fishing or boating in the area.
Crocodiles are often found near boat ramps and areas popular for fishing, posing a potential risk to individuals fishing from the shore. It is recommended to maintain a safe distance of at least 5 meters from the water’s edge and avoid entering the water at all costs.
Information on fishing
Alligator Billabong (Gurdurunguranjdju)
Experience a peaceful fishing getaway in a secluded area of Kakadu.
The wetlands fishing spot is located approximately 30 km off the Arnhem Highway, beyond Red Lily Billabong and Bucket Billabong. It can also be reached from the Old Darwin Road. The area includes two billabong sections divided by a creek crossing early in the year.
Both the north and south areas offer boat launching and camping options, with the south being more open without much shade and the north having some trees near the boat ramp. Enjoy a magical ride on the water while listening to the gentle lapping against the hull.
Bucket Billabong (Ngarrababa)
Kakadu offers a variety of secluded billabongs for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
The small billabong offers shaded camping areas and is suitable for catching barramundi and saratoga. It is recommended that the saratoga fish be caught and released for conservation purposes.
After Red Lily Billabong (Djunda), a creek is crossing two kilometres ahead, which may dry out as the dry season goes on.
Access can be gained via the Arnhem Highway (27 km on a dirt road) or Old Darwin Road.
East Alligator River
Kakadu has a standout fishing spot known for catching the iconic barramundi in the Northern Territory.
The East Alligator River offers opportunities for both fishing and relaxation, making it a great destination for visitors.
Visitors can access the East Alligator River from boat ramps on either side of Cahills Crossing for a unique Kakadu experience. The area offers stunning escarpments, expansive floodplains, and abundant wildlife. However, caution is advised due to submerged stumps, sandbars, and the presence of crocodiles.
During the run-off season from February to April, the downstream section of the river is perfect for barra fishing as the little creeks from the floodplain are dumping baitfish into the river.
Go further
Are you searching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure?
One option for exploration is travelling downstream to the mouth of the East Alligator River, a long journey of 70-80 km, which leads to the stunning landscape of the open ocean and Kakadu’s Point Farewell.
You can also try fishing for reef fish and pelagics such as golden snapper and blackfish in that area.
Proper safety equipment, a boat suitable for coastal conditions, and a sufficient fuel tank are necessary for open-water navigation.
Tours
Experience the beauty of Kakadu on a half or full-day tour with Darwin to Kakadu Day Trip, including a chance to fish at Cahills Crossing and see the local wildlife.
Four Mile Hole
The waterhole is ideal for a relaxing fishing excursion, offering a tranquil getaway from daily chores and commitments.
The open billabong is suitable for trolling and casting for barramundi and saratoga. Depending on the water levels following the tropical summer floods, the area opens later than Two Mile Hole.
The location is approximately 48 km from the Arnhem Highway via a dirt road, specifically 38 km past Two Mile Hole.
It is important to note that camping within 50 meters of the water’s edge is prohibited due to the risk of crocodiles.
Home Billabong
The billabong behind Cooinda is a popular spot for catching the famous Kakadu species, barramundi and saratoga.
Sit under the paperbark trees and admire the clear water, where you can see the fish swimming below.
During the tropical summer (from November to April), a channel allows access to Yellow Water and the South Alligator River.
Rangers have closed the route from Home Billabong to Mardukal Billabong to prevent the spread of Salvinia.
The dirt boat ramp is accessible for most of the year.
Jim Jim Billabong
The wetlands fishing spot is picturesque and offers an excellent opportunity to catch barramundi.
The spot is popular among people of all ages, with a boat ramp at the campground for those interested in a family outing on the water, followed by a cook-up at the end of the day.
To reach the Jim Jim Billabong, take the Kakadu Highway and turn onto Jim Jim Billabong Road. A 3 km dirt road leads to the destination, with 4WD recommended.
