Bynoe Harbour, less than two hours southwest of Darwin, is one of the Top End’s premier fishing destinations, renowned for its diversity of habitats and species. Here’s a detailed guide to what makes fishing here so special:
Habitats & Access
- Estuary Complex: Bynoe Harbour features dozens of mangrove creeks, inlets, and bays-ideal for both boat and land-based anglers.
- Offshore Reefs & Islands: The harbour opens to deep channels, ledges, artificial reefs (like Crab Claw Jetty and Simms Reef), and small islands such as Indian Island and Bare Sand Island, offering both reef and pelagic fishing.
- Access Points: Multiple boat ramps are available, including Six Pack Creek and Dundee Beach, with sheltered waters for safe boating in most conditions.
Target Species
- Barramundi: A signature species, often found in the shallow mangrove creeks (1–3 ft deep). Sight fishing with lures or flies is popular, especially during the run-off and dry season.
- Threadfin Salmon & Mangrove Jack: Common in the creeks and estuaries.
- Mud Crabs: Excellent crabbing in the mangroves and creeks.
- Golden Snapper & Black Jewfish: Deep holes, ledges, and artificial reefs are hotspots for these prized table fish.
- Queenfish, Trevally, Estuary Cod: Abundant around the foreshores and creek mouths, providing great sport on light tackle.
- Pelagics: Offshore, target Spanish mackerel, longtail tuna, coral trout, red emperor, and cobia, especially around Bass and Roche reefs and during the dry season.
Fishing Techniques
- Lure and Fly Fishing: Shallow water habitats are perfect for light tackle and fly fishing, with sight fishing possible in clear conditions.
- Bait Fishing: Effective for snapper, jewfish, and reef species on deeper ledges and reefs.
- Crabbing: Pots are commonly used in the mangrove creeks for mud crabs.
- Bluewater Trolling & Bottom Bouncing: Productive for pelagics and reef fish offshore.
Best Times to Fish
- Run-Off (March–May): Peak for barramundi as bait and fish concentrate at creek mouths.
- Dry Season (June–August): Excellent for reef and pelagic species; clearer, calmer conditions.
- Build-Up (September–November): Good for a variety of species as water temperatures rise.
Fishing Gear
Facilities & Regulations
- No Permit Needed: You do not need a permit to fish or camp in the intertidal, reef, and beach areas of Bynoe Harbour and Cox Peninsula, but respect sacred sites and traditional owner restrictions.
- Accommodation: Options include drive-in lodges, caravan parks, and guided fishing charters.
- Vessel Use: Most anglers use boats 4.5m or longer, equipped with sounders and GPS for navigation and locating fish.
Special Tips
- Sheltered Fishing: Bynoe Harbour offers plenty of sheltered spots, making it a good option even in windy conditions.
- Sight Fishing: Polarised sunglasses are essential for spotting fish in shallow, clear water.
- Artificial Reefs: Crab Claw Jetty and Simms Reef are reliable for big jewfish and snapper.
- Tides: Some ramps require sufficient tidal height for access (e.g., Six Pack Creek needs at least 3.5m of tide).
Summary Table: Key Species in Bynoe Harbour
| Species | Habitat/Technique |
|---|---|
| Barramundi | Shallow creeks, lures, fly, run-off season |
| Threadfin Salmon | Creeks, sight casting, lures |
| Mud Crabs | Mangrove creeks, crab pots |
| Golden Snapper | Reefs, ledges, bait fishing |
| Black Jewfish | Deep holes, artificial reefs |
| Queenfish/Trevally | Foreshores, creek mouths, light tackle |
| Spanish Mackerel | Offshore reefs, trolling, dry season |
In summary:
Bynoe Harbour is a versatile and productive fishery, offering everything from barramundi and mud crabs in sheltered creeks to bluewater pelagics and reef species offshore. With easy access, abundant species, and a range of fishing styles, it’s a top choice for both local and visiting anglers in the Top End.