Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris, aboriginal culture and fishing.

Fishing & Recreation

Favourite food of the saltwater crocodile in this part of Australia and a highly prized sportfish, the Barramundi is prolific in the waterways around Mount Borradaile. Individual guests have been known to catch in excess of 50 of these great fighters in one day. We encourage catch-and-release fishing to preserve stocks, but your favourite catch of the day can look great on the barbeque at the main camp, cooked to perfection by our chef. There are many ways to coduct your fishing, by boat, from the banks of the billabongs, from rocky outcrops or at the waterfalls. Whichever method you choose, it's all part of your tour package, no extras to pay. Fishing tackle and lures are supplied on a replace if lost or damaged basis. Or, bring your own gear.

Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris also cater for groups that want to fish exclusively, and our experienced guides will ensure that such groups will enjoy the fishing experience of a lifetime. Other species you are likely to catch include Tarpon, Black Bream, Archer Fish, Alligator Garfish and Catfish but the Barramundi, sometimes weighing in at around 20kg (44lbs), is the most sought after trophy. Be prepared to engage in a tug-of-war with a crocodile when you hook up with a Barra, and don't be surprised if the crocodile wins. From time to time the camp is booked for exclusive use by large fishing parties, but around four months notice is required to secure such bookings and a deposit must be tendered at the time of booking. All other activities associated with general tours are available if clients wish to take a break from fishing. Wet season rains open the billabongs to the sea, ensuring a plentiful and diverse fish population throughout the year, and saltwater fishing is available if seasonal conditions allow it.

Barramundi fishing - Arnhemland

The crystal clear waters of a rock pool high up in the escarpment and inaccessible to crocodiles is a great way to cool off and relax in idyllic surroundings. Some of these pools feature colourful, flowering lily pads, dependent on the season. Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris lease covers an area of 700 square kilometres and there is no shortage of pools like the one pictured on the left. The four wheel drive trip to these pools is an adventure in itself, with plenty to see along the way.

All land excursions are conducted in open four wheel drive vehicles similar to those used in the past by buffalo hunters. Along the way to explore a rainforest or paperbark swamp your guide may explain bush survival techniques, or stop to point out a rare plant or to demonstrate how the Aboriginal people use natural resources for bush medicines and food (bush tucker). Nearing the end of the afternoon, you might indulge in a sunset cruise on the billabong where you can observe the birds and crocodiles while enjoying refreshments and a pre-dinner snack. A brilliant sunset bathing the floodplain in golden colour heralds the return to the main camp for dinner and the friendly buzz of conversation. After dinner try your hand at playing a didgeridoo, discuss the events of the day with newly found friends, just sit back and relax or plan your next days' activities before retiring for the night to the comfort of your tent. No alarm clock required, the sounds of the wilderness waking up is all you need.

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© 2002 Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris PO Box 41905, Casuarina NT 0811
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