Northern Territory Archives - Finniss River & Bynoe Harbour

Recommended Brands and Types of Hunting Gear for the Northern Territory

Locally Recommended Brands and Retailers

Territory Tuff: A family-owned NT-based brand specializing in durable, practical country apparel designed for Top End conditions. Their clothing is tailored for the local climate, offering quality and affordability for hunters needing lightweight, breathable, and rugged gear.
Coolalinga Guns & Ammo: A major hunting retailer in Holtze, NT, stocking a wide array of firearms (including brands like Browning, CZ, Steyr, Huglu, Winchester Arms), ammunition (Winchester, Norma, ADI), optics (Meopta), and hunting accessories. They are a one-stop shop for local hunters needing guns, ammo, apparel, and gear suited to NT conditions.

Essential Gear Types and Features

Shotguns and Ammunition: Choose reliable brands such as Browning or Winchester, which are widely available and trusted for waterfowl hunting in the NT. Always use non-toxic shot as required by regulations.
Camouflage Clothing: High-quality camo gear is essential for blending into the wetland environment. Territory Tuff and other specialist brands provide appropriate patterns and materials for the Top End.
Waders and Waterproof Boots: Durable waders and boots are crucial for traversing muddy and waterlogged floodplains. Look for brands known for robust waterproofing and comfort.
Optics: Quality binoculars and spotting scopes, such as those from Meopta, help with identifying and locating game in dense wetlands.
Accessories: Decoys, calls, and other waterfowl hunting accessories are available through local retailers and are vital for successful hunts.

Waders

Specialist Gear Lists

Outfitters like Ironbark Outfitters recommend:

Lightweight, long-sleeve camo shirts and pants for sun and insect protection
Lightweight boots or hiking shoes
Short gaiters to keep out grass and sand
Hydration packs (2–3L capacity)
Bug head nets
Sun protection gear (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Gloves for sun and vegetation protection.

Summary Table: Key Brands and Gear

Gear Type	Recommended Brands/Retailers	Notes
Apparel	Territory Tuff	Local, designed for NT conditions
Firearms	Browning, Winchester, CZ, Steyr	Available at Coolalinga Guns & Ammo
Ammunition	Winchester, Norma, ADI	Non-toxic shot required
Optics	Meopta	Binoculars and scopes
Accessories	Variety at Coolalinga Guns & Ammo	Decoys, calls, cleaning kits
Footwear/Waders	Specialist waterfowl brands	Waterproof and durable

Conclusion

For hunting in the Northern Territory, prioritize gear and brands that are proven in tropical, wetland environments. Local retailers like Territory Tuff and Coolalinga Guns & Ammo offer products specifically suited to the Top End’s unique challenges, ensuring both comfort and compliance with local regulations.

Best Times of the Year for Pig Hunting in the Northern Territory

The best times of year for pig hunting in the Northern Territory are generally during the dry season months from July to November. This period is favoured because:

Weather Conditions: The climate is drier and more temperate, making it more comfortable for hunters to be out in the bush and easier to access hunting areas.
Pig Behavior: During the dry season, water sources become scarce, so pigs are more likely to concentrate around remaining waterholes, making them easier to locate and hunt.
Daytime Activity: Pigs are more active during the early mornings and late afternoons, especially on floodplains. In the heat of the day, they seek shade and can sometimes be flushed from dense cover.

Wet Season Hunting

While pig hunting can technically be done year-round in the NT, the wet season (December to March) presents challenges:

Access: Many areas become difficult to reach due to flooding and muddy conditions, requiring specialized vehicles or even airboats.
Pig Distribution: Pigs are more dispersed due to abundant water and food, making them harder to find.

Summary Table

Season	Advantages	Challenges
July–November	Dry, comfortable, pigs concentrated	None significant
December–March	Lush scenery, unique experience possible	Difficult access, pigs widely dispersed

In summary:
The most productive and comfortable time for pig hunting in the Northern Territory is from July to November, during the dry season, when pigs are easier to find and conditions are best for hunters. However, with proper preparation and equipment, hunting is possible year-round.

Pig Dog Hunting in the Top End, Northern Territory

Pig dog hunting-using trained dogs to locate, bail, or hold feral pigs-is a traditional and popular method in the Top End of the Northern Territory. The region’s vast floodplains, wetlands, and remote bushland support a large and healthy feral pig population, attracting hunters from across Australia seeking adventure and trophy boars.

Legal Requirements & Regulations

Permitted Activity:
Hunting feral pigs with dogs is legal in the NT, but strict regulations apply under the NT Animal Welfare Act and the National Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals (Feral Livestock Animals).
Permits:
You must obtain the necessary permits to hunt on public land (e.g., Shoal Bay Reserve, Harrison Dam Reserve). Permits are limited and specific to these reserves. On private land, you need the landholder’s permission.
Animal Welfare:
- Dogs must be well-handled, trained not to chase livestock or wildlife, and used in a way that minimizes stress and harm to both pigs and dogs.
- Humane dispatch of pigs is required-unnecessary pain or suffering is prohibited and subject to heavy penalties.
Biosecurity & Hygiene:
Hunters must follow best biosecurity practices to prevent the spread of disease, including using personal protective equipment (PPE), maintaining good hygiene for themselves and their dogs, and cleaning vehicles and gear after hunts.

Gun Cleaning & Maintenance

The Hunting Experience

The Dogs:
Well-trained pig dogs are essential. They are used to track, bail (hold at bay), or physically hold pigs until the hunter can dispatch the animal humanely. Dogs must be fit, obedient, and socialized to avoid aggression toward other animals or humans.
The Terrain:
The Top End’s floodplains, swamps, and woodlands are prime pig habitats. Conditions can be hot, humid, and physically demanding, requiring both hunters and dogs to be in good condition.
The Pigs:
The region is known for large boars, often exceeding 100 kg. Hunters may target trophy boars or participate in culling to help manage environmental damage caused by feral pigs.

Safety & Disease Risks

Disease Transmission:
Feral pigs can carry diseases and parasites that threaten both animal and human health. Hunters should always wear PPE (gloves, boots) when handling or butchering pigs, and ensure dogs are up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite control.
Butchering:
Avoid using carcasses with abscesses or signs of disease. Proper cooking neutralizes most parasites, but some diseases do not show visible signs.

Ethics & Best Practice

Humane Dispatch:
It is an ethical and legal requirement to ensure pigs are dispatched quickly and humanely to minimize suffering.
Dog Welfare:
Dogs must be cared for before, during, and after hunts-this includes hydration, rest, first aid, and protection from heat and injury.

Where to Hunt

Public Land:
Shoal Bay and Harrison Dam reserves are the main public hunting areas for pigs, and a permit is required.
Private Land:
Many hunts are conducted with permission from landholders, especially in remote floodplain areas where pigs are abundant.
Guided Hunts:
Several outfitters offer guided pig dog hunts, providing local knowledge, access to prime locations, and experienced dogs.

Summary Table

Aspect	Details
Legal Status	Permitted with strict animal welfare and permit requirements
Dog Use	Allowed; dogs must be trained, well-handled, and not chase livestock
Main Locations	Shoal Bay, Harrison Dam (public reserves with permit), private land
Key Risks	Disease transmission, heat stress, animal injury
Ethics	Humane dispatch of pigs, dog welfare, biosecurity

In summary:
Pig dog hunting is a long-standing tradition in the Top End, offering challenging and rewarding experiences for those who follow the law, prioritize animal welfare, and respect the land. Always hunt with the correct permits, use well-trained dogs, and adhere to strict ethical and biosecurity standards.

Where to Hunt in The Top End

The Top End of the Northern Territory offers a wealth of hunting opportunities, from public reserves to vast wetlands and remote backcountry areas. Here are some of the best and most accessible locations for recreational hunting, along with what makes each unique.

Howard Springs Hunting Reserve

Howard Springs Hunting Reserve is a well-known and accessible hunting preserve close to Darwin, making it a convenient option for both locals and visitors. The reserve is suitable for families and is managed to provide a safe and regulated hunting environment. It is ideal for those seeking a structured hunting experience near urban amenities.

Mary River Wetlands (including Shady Camp and Point Stuart)

The Mary River Wetlands are internationally significant for their biodiversity and are prime hunting grounds, especially for waterfowl during the dry season. Locations like Shady Camp and Point Stuart are renowned for their concentrations of magpie geese and ducks as water recedes. The area’s vast floodplains and challenging access make it a favourite for experienced hunters seeking a true Top End adventure.

Harrison Dam and Lambell’s Lagoon Conservation Reserves

These conservation reserves are among the few public lands in the NT where recreational hunting is permitted, particularly for feral pigs and waterfowl. Located about an hour from Darwin, they offer accessible yet authentic Top End wetland hunting. The reserves also hold cultural significance and support rich wildlife, making them popular with both locals and visitors.

Shoal Bay Reserve

Shoal Bay Reserve is a designated public land hunting area, especially popular for wild pig hunting. A permit is required, and the reserve is managed to balance hunting opportunities with conservation. Its proximity to Darwin and clear regulations make it a practical choice for those seeking public land hunting experiences.

Judbarra / Gregory National Park

This vast national park in the Victoria River district offers diverse hunting environments, from sandstone escarpments to savannah woodlands. It is especially noted for bird hunting, including flock bronzewings and bustards, and requires self-sufficiency and remote area travel experience. The park’s scale and remoteness provide a true wilderness hunting experience.

Limmen National Park

Limmen National Park is known for its seasonal waterfowl and upland game bird hunting, as well as large marsupials. Its claypans and marshlands are particularly productive after the wet season. The park is best accessed with a 4WD and offers free camping, making it suitable for extended hunting trips during the early dry season.

Victoria River District

The Victoria River District is celebrated for both hunting and fishing, with seasonal wetlands attracting large numbers of game birds and the river itself offering excellent barramundi fishing. The region’s remoteness and iconic landscapes appeal to hunters seeking solitude and the challenge of the outback.

Back Country Hunting (BCH) Areas

The NT’s Back Country Hunting initiative allows residents, and their nominees, to hunt in designated remote areas, provided they meet accreditation and permit requirements. These areas are ideal for experienced hunters looking for self-guided, multi-day expeditions in true wilderness settings, often far from established roads or facilities.

What to Consider When Buying a Tent

Choosing the right tent is key to a comfortable and safe camping experience. Here are the most important factors and features to consider:

1. Capacity & Size

How many people will use the tent? Choose a tent with enough sleeping space for all campers, plus extra room for gear if needed.
Vestibule size: Extra vestibule space is useful for storing gear outside the sleeping area, especially for groups.

Tents

2. Weather & Seasonality

Seasons: Decide if you need a tent for 3-season (spring, summer, autumn) or 4-season (winter, alpine) use or if only for the Top End, Summer!.
Weather resistance: Look for waterproof materials, taped seams, and a bathtub-style floor to keep water out.
Ventilation: Good airflow prevents condensation, especially in humid or stormy conditions.

3. Weight & Packed Size

Weight matters: For backpacking, lighter tents are crucial. Compare the “packed weight” (includes all components) rather than just the “minimum trail weight”.
Packed size: Consider how much space the tent will take up in your pack or vehicle.

4. Ease of Setup

Simple assembly: Choose a tent that’s easy to set up and take down, especially if you’ll be moving campsites or dealing with bad weather.
Pole design: Fewer poles usually mean faster setup, but more poles can add stability in strong winds.

5. Durability & Materials

Tent fabric: Ripstop nylon or polyester are common and durable. Check the denier (D) rating-higher numbers mean thicker, tougher fabric.
Pole material: Aluminum poles are strong and reliable; carbon fiber is lighter but can be more fragile.
Floor strength: A robust, waterproof floor is essential for comfort and longevity.

6. Features & Design

Doors: Multiple doors make entry/exit easier for groups.
Height and wall shape: Steeper walls and higher ceilings provide more usable space for moving around or getting dressed.
Internal pockets and gear lofts: Handy for storing small items and keeping the tent organized.
Footprint size: Smaller tents are easier to pitch in tight spots, but larger tents offer more comfort.

7. Price & Value

Budget: Tents range from budget options to high-end models with advanced features. Balance your needs with your budget.
Warranty and support: Consider brands with good customer service and warranties for peace of mind.

8. Intended Use

Backpacking vs. car camping: Lightweight, compact tents are best for backpacking; larger, more feature-rich tents suit car camping or base camps.
Special features: Stove compatibility, snow skirts, or modular designs may be important for specific environments or activities.

Summary Table

Consideration	Why It Matters
Capacity & Size	Comfort, gear storage, group needs
Seasonality	Weather protection, year-round use
Weight & Packed Size	Backpacking vs. car camping, portability
Ease of Setup	Convenience, speed, solo vs. group setup
Durability	Longevity, resistance to rips and weather
Features	Usability, organization, comfort
Price	Value for money, features vs. budget
Intended Use	Matching tent to your camping style

In summary:
Choose a tent that matches your group size, expected weather, and camping style. Prioritize durability, weatherproofing, and ease of use for the best experience. Always check reviews and, if possible, set up the tent before your trip to ensure it meets your needs.

Recreational Buffalo Hunting in the Top End, Northern Territory

Recreational buffalo hunting in the Top End is a renowned adventure, attracting hunters from Australia and around the world. The region offers vast, wild landscapes, challenging hunts, and the opportunity to pursue one of the country’s largest and most iconic game animals-the water buffalo.

Where to Hunt

Central Arnhem Land is the premier destination, particularly areas around the Mann River and the Central Plateau. These regions are remote, scenic, and home to large populations of free-ranging water buffalo, as well as wild oxen (scrub bulls) and wild boar.
Hunts are typically conducted on Aboriginal reserves or private leases, with access managed by professional outfitters.

Types of Buffalo Hunts

Trophy Buffalo Safari: Target a mature, large-horned “gold class” buffalo, plus up to two cull buffalo.
Management Buffalo Safari: Focus on taking two “silver class” management buffalo.
Cull Buffalo Safari: Harvest up to five cull buffalo, helping with population management.

Additional opportunities often exist to hunt wild oxen and boar during the same safari.

Hunting Methods and Experience

Guided Safaris: All hunts are fully guided by experienced professionals, ensuring safety, ethical hunting, and the best chance of success.
4×4 Access: Hunters travel in all-terrain vehicles to reach remote billabongs, river systems, and escarpments, then proceed on foot for the final stalk.
Spot and Stalk: The preferred method, allowing hunters to experience the landscape and wildlife up close.
Scenery and Wildlife: Beyond hunting, guests can enjoy panoramic views, abundant birdlife, and invigorating swims in freshwater creeks and rock pools that are free from saltwater crocodiles.

Hunting Gear

Accommodation and Amenities

Comfortable bush lodges accommodate small groups (up to six guests), offering:
- Hot and cold running water
- Flushing toilets and washing machines
- 24-hour generated power for lights, fans, and electrical appliances
- Quality meals, including roasts, seafood, steaks, salads, and desserts
- Licensed bar facilities for relaxing after the hunt

Environmental and Management Context

Feral buffalo are considered a pest in the Top End, causing significant environmental damage to floodplains and wetlands through trampling, creating “swim channels,” spreading weeds, and impacting native species such as magpie geese and crocodiles.
Recreational hunting, alongside government management (aerial and ground shooting), helps control buffalo numbers and reduce their environmental impact.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

All hunts must comply with Northern Territory hunting laws and land access permissions. Most buffalo hunting is conducted on Aboriginal land or private leases, requiring the appropriate permits and adherence to local regulations.
Ethical hunting practices and respect for Indigenous land and culture are emphasized by reputable outfitters.

Summary Table: Recreational Buffalo Hunting in the Top End NT

Aspect	Details
Main Species	Water buffalo (trophy, management, cull), wild oxen, wild boar
Main Areas	Central Arnhem Land, Mann River, Aboriginal reserves
Hunting Methods	Guided spot-and-stalk, 4×4 access, walking among billabongs and creeks
Accommodation	Bush lodges with full amenities, meals, and bar facilities
Hunt Packages	Trophy, management, and cull safaris (1–5 buffalo per hunt)
Environmental Role	Population control, ecosystem protection
Legal Requirements	Land access permits, compliance with NT hunting laws

In summary:
Recreational buffalo hunting in the Top End combines world-class big game adventure with responsible wildlife management, set in one of Australia’s most spectacular and remote landscapes. Hunts are best arranged through experienced outfitters, who provide access, guidance, and comfortable accommodations for an unforgettable experience.

Trail Cameras

Crocodiles Found in the Top End, Northern Territory

The Top End of the Northern Territory is renowned for its large and thriving crocodile population, home to two native species: the saltwater (estuarine) crocodile and the freshwater crocodile.

1. Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

Also known as “salties,” these are the largest living reptiles in the world, with some individuals growing up to 6 meters (20 feet) and weighing up to 1 tonne.
Saltwater crocodiles are found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, including rivers, billabongs, estuaries, and coastal waters throughout the Top End.
They are highly territorial, opportunistic predators, feeding on fish, birds, turtles, wild boar, buffalo, and occasionally livestock or anything else that enters their territory.
Saltwater crocodiles are considered extremely dangerous to humans due to their size, power, and ambush hunting style.
The Northern Territory is home to over 100,000 saltwater crocodiles, making it one of the densest populations in the world, particularly along the Mary River.

2. Freshwater Crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni)

Known locally as “freshies,” these crocodiles are generally smaller and less aggressive than saltwater crocodiles, rarely growing larger than 3 meters (10 feet).
They are mostly found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, creeks, and billabongs, and are less likely to be found in saline environments.
Freshwater crocodiles primarily eat fish and birds and are not considered dangerous to humans unless provoked, though they can bite if threatened.
They can be distinguished from saltwater crocodiles by their slimmer snout and generally flatter body scutes.

Cultural and Environmental Significance

Crocodiles are of great cultural importance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Northern Territory.
They also play a significant role in the local economy through tourism and regulated crocodile farming.

Safety and Management

The NT government operates active crocodile management and public education programs, including removal of problem crocodiles and clear signage about safe swimming areas.
Any body of water in the Top End may contain large and potentially dangerous crocodiles, so it is critical to always follow local warnings and “Be Crocwise”.

Summary Table

Species	Size	Habitat	Aggressiveness	Danger to Humans	Key Features
Saltwater Crocodile	Up to 6m+, 1 tonne	Fresh & saltwater, coast, rivers	Very high	Extreme	Broad snout, large size, territorial
Freshwater Crocodile	Up to 3m	Freshwater rivers, billabongs	Low	Low (if provoked)	Slim snout, smaller, less aggressive

The Top End is one of the best places in the world to observe crocodiles in the wild, but always exercise caution and respect for these ancient predators.

Boat Ramps

There are at least half a dozen boat ramps in the Finnis River & Bynoe Harbour area.

MILNE INLET – At Milne Inlet. Turn off Fog Bay Rd along Bynoe Haven Rd past Sand Palms Roadhouse and then Milne Road. Best with tides higher than 3 meters.

STINGRAY HEAD BEACH LAUNCH – Turn off Cox Peninsular Rd onto Fog Bay Road. About 55 km along Fog Bay Rd the road makes a sharp turn where the large Dundee sign is. Instead of heading to the lodge, follow the dirt track to Five Mile Beach.

DUNDEE – Turn off Cox Peninsular Road, the ramp is about 60km down Fog Bay Road. It is best to launch the boat with tides above 3 meters.

SIX PACK CREEK – At Mackenzie Arm. Turn off Fog Bay Road along Barramundi Drive. Best with tides higher than 2 meters.
At Mackenzie arm. Turn off Fog Bay Road along Dundee Road. Best with tides higher than 2 meters.

MOUTH OF ANNIES – If you are heading towards Cox Peninsular driving along Fog Bay Road there is a dirt track on the left 1.8 km past Lenny Creek. Follow the track to the end. Need a 4WD as it is necessary to drive onto sand to access launch site.

MOUTH OF FINNISS – Drive along 5 mile beach to the mouth of the Finniss. Launch boat off the beach – or – with permission from the Professional Fisherman’s Camp. Ramp is a couple of kilometers upstream continuing along a track from the mouth of the Finniss

River Road FINNIS River – Not Tidal. Take Hardcastle Road which is 500m before/after SandPalms Roadhouse on Fog Bay road then turn right about 3km along and go all the way down River road. River road and adjacent land floods in the wet season making access impossible for large periods of time. Check the NT Road Reports page and look for restriction alerts like this:

River Road & HardCastle Rd Restrictions 2017 — 2017 Road Report Website Restrictions

In December 2016 The Northern Land Council declared that a permit is required in relation to the areas marked in red on the Sea Country Access map. This is regardless of the six month waiver until 30 June 2017 on the requirements for a permit.

Arrangements in the Northern Land Council Region map, include:

…..(b) those parts of the Delissaville/Wagait/Larrakia Aboriginal Land Trust, more particularly described as the upper Finniss River.

Northern Land Council Sea Country Access Arrangements
in the Northern Land Council region

It was supposed to be that from 1 July 2017 all commercial fishing operators and recreational fishers will require permission from Aboriginal land owners and the Northern Land Council (NLC) through the grant of a licence or permit to fish in tidal waters over Aboriginal land except in permitted access areas. But typical NT, this still doesn’t appear to be fully resolved!

Note: The Finniss River, access and fishing at River Road/Hardcastle road, has been highlighted as “No Access Permitted”. Time will tell as to whether this is fully implemented.

Crab Claw Island Resort– Private boat ramp to access the fabulous fishing. Turn off about 24 km from Cox Peninsula Rd – Fog Bay Road intersection. Dirt road – well sign posted. Great accommodation too!

Fog Bay Road

Fog Bay Road Upgrade

In the May 2016 NTG Budget, Transport Capital for Top End Rural and Regional was announced.

This included the completion of the Fog Bay Road upgrade at Rocky Creek Bridge and thus the final wet season obstacle addressed for Bynoe and Dundee residents and visitors.

Fog Bay Road has had a number of upgrades in recent times.

Changing from being totally unsealed with no bridges to the current bituminised road with now all the rivers Charlotte, Annie, Rocky and Leviathan Creek now bridged.

The 2016-17 budget allowed for continued funding to the existing upgrading of Leviathan Creek Bridge (now complete) as well as provide new funding for the Rock Creek Bridge crossing – the last crossing to be upgraded.

A total of $5.77 million of Northern Territory Government funding had been provided for Fog Bay Road in 2016-17. About $4M alone on the Leviathan Creek Bridge.

Construction of Rocky Creek Bridge was done under tender awarded to Allan King & Sons Construction Pty Ltd with a tender costing of $1,570,888. This was published by the Northern Terrory Goverment at the end of Novemeber 2016.

As the 2016-17 wet season like many before had resulted in Rocky Creek being impassable due to flooding and surface conditions ruined on numerous occasions the completion of road works before the 2017-18 wet season is a welcomed sight!

Fog Bay Road is now a much better all season road for residents and tourists alike.