Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge - Fishing

The Mary River Wetlands is a unique and diverse ecosystem. The area has a massive catchment and huge expanses of freshwater and coastal floodplains. It is a renowned marine nursery and the mighty barramundi thrive.

Shady Camp

Shady Camp is fast becoming one of the most sought after destinations for Barramundi fishing. Here the freshwater habitat meets the saltwater tidal river and is a mecca for big barra, especially following the monsoonal rains of the tropical wet season.

Some of the Northern Territory’s biggest barramundi are caught fishing downstream from Shady Camp barrage during the ‘Runoff” period, February, March April and May each year. The ‘runoff ‘ is when the warm flood waters begin to subside and water runs off the floodplains into tidal channels which causes a feeding frenzy for barramundi. Fish weighing 25kg are common.

The Mary River forms two major saltwater estuaries including many small creeks and channels that flow to the sea in Chambers Bay.

Sampan Creek and Tommycut Creek offer superb ‘run off’ Barramundi fishing. Both creeks have endless mangrove lined feeder creeks that offer fantastic fishing opportunities. The mouths of these systems produce monster Barra every season.

Shady Camp Barrage

The Shady Camp barrage was built in the late 1980’s constructed over a natural rock bar to restrict tidal saltwater entering the freshwater habitat. It was designed to let the wet seasons floodwaters flow to sea and allow Barramundi and other native fish to migrate back and forth during their yearly spawning cycles.

The barrage has created one of the best land-based barra hotspots in the Top End. You can cast the freshwater side or the saltwater side. The amount of fish that congregate in these waters has to be seen to be believed. Boat ramps are located both on the freshwater and saltwater sides of the barrage.

Shady Camp Billabong

Upstream from the barrage is Shady Camp billabong. After the wet season floodwaters subside the billabong offers excellent dry season fishing. Tarpon, Saratoga and Barramundi are targeted. It makes for a relaxing day fishing, croc spotting and bird watching. Casting amongst the lily lined banks and trolling the banks edges and rock bars produce plenty of fish.

Reef fishing

Reef fishing is also close offshore in Chambers Bay. Approximately 10kms north of Sampan Creek lays a large shallow area of shoals and reefs. They are easily accessible from Shady Camp boat ramp and offer a huge array of tropical sportfish. Species such as Blue Salmon, Black Jewfish, Golden Snapper, Cod, Tricky Snapper, various sharks and even Painted Cray are regularly caught.

The reefs are renowned for its large Black Jewfish population averaging 10 to 15 kg. They are challenging and great fun to land in the relatively shallow waters.

Corroboree and Rockhole Billabongs

Further south from Shady Camp the wetlands continue and form the giant Corroboree and Rockhole Billabongs. These inland waterways stretch some 20kms and offer endless fishing opportunities. Fishing for Tarpon, Saratoga and Barramundi is exceptional. One could spend weeks exploring the fishing possibilities.

Corroboree Billabong is famous for producing consistently good Barramundi fishing during the dry season months and is a favourable spot for Darwin locals. The natural beauty is a bonus, well worth a trip!

Fishing trips

Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge can tailor a fishing trip for you. Choose between ½ day, full day tours, or all inclusive 1 to 5 day safaris with licensed and accredited local guides.

You may wish to hire one of our boats to self-drive or bring your own boat like many others and experience excellent Barramundi fishing on the Mary River Wetlands.

Guided Safari Options

½ Day Tour

• Departs Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge early morning or early afternoon
• 4 ½ hours duration.
• Includes a light snack and refreshments.
• Guided fishing / tuition
• Crocodile and wildlife viewing.

Full Day Tour

• Departs Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge early morning
• Includes lunch, snacks and refreshments
• Guided fishing / tuition
• Enjoy spectacular scenery
• Returns late afternoon

1 to 5 Day Extended Safaris

• Hotel or airport pick up – Darwin area
• All transfers
• Deluxe air-conditioned accommodation
• Breakfast and evening meals in Wetlands Bistro
• Packed lunch and refreshments
• Guided fishing / tuition

All tours are maximum 3 people per boat. Top quality tackle is supplied – to be replaced by guest if lost or damaged. Guests are welcome to bring their own tackle.

What to bring?

Light/cool protective clothing, hat, sunglasses are a necessity, sunscreen, insect repellent, and camera/video. Alcohol is available for purchase from the Saloon Bar.


Shady Camp during the Dry Season