Groote Eylandt Fishing - Gulf of Carpentaria

Groote Eylandt is the third largest Australian island with an area of 2,687 sq km. It was named "Great Island" by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1644 and has been home to the Anindilyakwa Aboriginal people for hundreds of years. The island is on the western side of the Gulf of Carpentaria close to the Northern Territory mainland. Surrounding the island is a marine environment with fabulous reef systems and rich recreational fisheries. Over 50 different species are caught in the pristine waters at Groote Eylandt.

The best word to describe the fishing around Groote Eylandt is DIVERSITY.

Light tackle, reef fishing, fly fishing, popper fishing and jigging are all popular. Barramundi, GT’s, Queenfish, Salmon, Emperor, Cod, Snapper, Mackerel,Coral Trout, Barracuda and many more are commonly caught. The choices ar endless. Spend some time targeting Barramundi and Mangrove Jack in estuaries and then move offshore to chase game fish such as the majestic Sailfish and mighty Black Marlin and finish the day on the amazing reefs that surround the island. The system consists of large patches of coral reefs, drop offs and bommies, all ideal habitats for reef dwellers. At dusk and dawn and with a maximum tidal movement of only 2 metres the water clarity offers fishing enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy some great sight fishing on the flats.

Groote Eylandt is a great destination for sports fishing and fly fishing alike.

The fishing anywhere in “the Gulf” at anytime of year is simply world class. The daily tempretures are generally around 30 degrees at any time of year with the humidity rising from around 30% in June, July and August to above 80% during the “build up and wet season October to March.

Accommodation

We stay in the “Fishermans Village” which is part of the very new Dugong Beach Resort on the west coast of Groote Eylandt, not far from the main town of Alyangula.

The safari style lodge accommodation is based on twin or single share options. It is situated on raised platforms ensuring minimal enviromental impact and maximum seabreeze. They are fully air conditioned with en-suite facilities, mini bars and tea & coffee. Each room boasts stunning sea views from a private deck and the resort features a restaurant with all meals included in the rates. It also has a licenced bar and swimming pool both of which will be welcomed at the end of a great days fishing.

Guides, Boats And Equipment

The guides are resident professionals who live on the island and fish these waters on a daily basis. They have an intimate knowledge of the tides and weather, the marine eco systems and the feeding habits of the resident species and they delight in ensuring their guests maximize their fishing experience. They will cater for experienced fisherman and novices alike with the right advice and assistance on equipment and techniques.

All the gear is provided by the guides using strong, reliable late model Shimano equipment. Some fly fishing gear is available and keen fly fishers might like to bring their own customized equipment.

Boats used are 8m customised Haines Hunters providing maximum comfort for anglers. All boats are under survey and onboard facilities are second to none. No time will be wasted getting you to the water each day with the boats moored right in front of the lodge on our floating jetty. All our Haines Hunter boats are fitted with the Evinrude E-Tec moters to ensure uninterrupted fishing. We also have a number of Can-am ATV's for running along the beaches or general exploring.

Other Activities

• Enjoy a round of golf
• Experience a cultural tour with Aboriginal traditional land owners
• Lunch on a remote sandy island
• Sunset cruises
• Light aircraft scenic tours
• All facilities at resort are available for use, including a restaurant, licensed bar, swimming pool and conference room.

Getting There

Regular flights run between Darwin and Groote Eylandt on a daily basis and twice daily at certain times of the year. Flights operate between Darwin and most southern capital cities usually at least twice daily. Darwin is also an international airport with daily flights from Singapore with connections worldwide. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Other Destinations

Darwin is a perfect location for pre and post Groote Eylandt stopovers. It is now a sophisticated and cosmopolitan city of 100 000 people that still retains a frontier feel. The “Top End” of Australia’s only city is surrounded by thousands of miles of wilderness featuring flood plains, waterfalls, gorges, beaches, islands and a rich diversity of topical wildlife and marine life. There is a large number of touring, accommodation, cultural, sporting, dining and shopping opportunities available. As a licenced tour operator and travel agent located in Darwin we can assist you with these options.

Rates 3 Days/Nights From $3295 per person quad share 4 Days/Nights From $4095 per person quad share 5 Days/Nights From $4995 per person quad share 6 Days/Nights From $5800 per person quad share Prices based on group of four sharing a boat and indicative only. Please contact us for possible updates.

See our Special Rates page for great deals possibly saving $100’s Inclusions 90 min return flight Darwin to Groote Eylandt with a regional airline All transfers on Groote Eylandt between the airport and the Lodge / Resort Land access entry permit were applicable All meals and light refreshments while on tour Twin or double share air-conditioned accommodation with ensuites Fully guided fishing from surveyed 8 metre boats with professional guides All fishing tackle on a replace if lost or damaged basis (Please bring your own fly gear if required)