First Ever 'Gone Fishing Day'

There's no doubt the Northern Territory is home to some of the best fishing in the world. With huge tidal rivers, inland billabongs, mangrove-lined estuaries and a scenic coastline; its vast networks of waterways offer a variety of fishing options.

Australia's first national 'Gone Fishing Day', being held today Sunday, 16 October, is set to celebrate one of the country's most participated leisure activities with thousands of Australians going fishing and plenty of events promoting recreational fishing.

The Amateur Fishermen's Association of the Northern Territory (AFANT) is pleased to announce that they will be hosting the NT Gone Fishing Day to coincide with the national day.

As part of this great initiative AFANT is holding a free, family friendly event at the Lake Bennett Wildness Resort, located 80km south of Darwin. Fishing gear will be provided so everyone can wet a line and have a go at hooking numerous iconic NT fish species such as Barramundi, Tarpon and Sooty Grunter in a safe and easily accessible location.

NT ambassador and former Australian cricketer, Matthew Hayden, is an avid fisho and counts the Northern Territory as one of his all-time favourite fishing destinations.

“Fishing is Australia's greatest recreational and lifestyle asset. I have been fishing all my life and without any doubt it has been a major source of knowledge, inspiration and fun. Whether it be with mates or my children, the waterways of Australia provide the ideal setting for endless healthy and active entertainment.

“I have fished all over the world in spectacular backdrops but it is impossible to go past the Northern Territory as my number one recreational fishing location. Its combination of blue, salt and freshwater river fishing set it apart. Plus where else can you fish for one of the world's most sought after sports fishing species – the NT's famous barramundi – and have a chance to win a million dollars?

“That's right – get out on the waterways of the NT on Australia's first annual 'Gone Fishing Day' on 16 October to be in with a chance to win cash if you hook one of 101 expertly tagged barramundi from October through to the end of February 2017. Go to www.milliondollarfish.com.au now to register.

“Good luck everyone on Gone Fishing Day – I hope this October will be full of tight lines, smiles and most importantly some time with those you love the most, your family!”

There are many different hot spot destinations throughout the Territory's Top End that offer great fishing - Darwin Harbour, Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, Kakadu National Park and Katherine region. They are well serviced by a full range of tourist facilities along with expert fishing guides, unique accommodation-and fishing combinations and services such as fuel, food, repairs and supplies.

Anglers can choose to hire a boat or bring their own, take a fully guided fishing safari, stay at a remote fishing lodge, or even throw in a line from a wharf or jetty – every type of angler and every type of fishing experience is catered for in the Northern Territory.

There are a number of events happening across the Top End and Australia this weekend – they can be found on the official national Gone Fishing Day website.