Wild Capture Fisheries

The Northern Territory's aquatic resources are shared between a variety of user groups including commercial, recreational, indigenous fishers, fishing tour operators and the wider community.  In order for all groups to continue to prosper from the use of these valuable resources, it is important that all activities are conducted in a manner which is least disruptive to the ecosystems upon which they depend.

The Aquatic Resource Management team of NT Fisheries are responsible for managing the NT's wild capture fisheries and ensuring that they are managed in an ecologically sustainable manner.  By taking a holistic approach which has regard to all user groups, they aim to ensure catches made by all stakeholders remain sustainable both now and into the future.  They achieve this through a process of consultation and negotiation within the context of ecologically sustainable development and government policy to determine the best possible management arrangements.

Wild capture fisheries managed by NT Fisheries include:

• Barramundi
• Mud crab
• Spanish Mackerel
• Off-shore Net and Line
• Timor Reef
• Finfish Trawl
• Trepang
• Demersal
• Coastal Line
• Costal Net
• Aquarium
• Bait Net
• Mollusc
• Squid Jigging

Management plans have been developed for the mud crab, barramundi and Spanish mackerel fisheries and other fisheries are managed by a combination of regulations, gazettal notices and licence conditions.  The Aquatic Resource Management team continually strives to develop effective and successful management strategies and to set long-term management direction.

Further information on wild capture fisheries of the NT and how they are managed can be found in the Fishery Status Reports 2006.