Golden snapper recovery

Reef fishing is part of the Territory lifestyle. It supports communities, local businesses and the economy.

Golden snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin region are critically low.

Recreational fishing is the main cause of golden snapper stock decline, it represents 77% of the current catch with fishing tour operators taking 22% and commercial fishers 1%.

Watch the video below to learn ways to help with the pressures of overfishing.

How we measure golden snapper stocks

Scientists conduct stock assessments using the latest data to check the status of the golden snapper population.

The stock assessment has also been independently reviewed to make sure it is accurate, reliable and follows international best practice.

The latest stock assessment, finished in December 2025, shows golden snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin region have dropped to 14% of their original levels. They are at risk of further decline or collapse.

Ongoing fishing pressure is preventing stock recovery, and similar inshore reef fish may also be impacted.

Factsheet

Stock assessment full report

Independent review

Golden snapper recovery plan

Management action is needed to recover golden snapper stocks and prevent more decline or collapse.

NT Fisheries is working with all stakeholders to develop a recovery plan.

The plan will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the Territory's reef fishing lifestyle.

Support programs

NT Fisheries is investing in programs to support stocks and provide new fishing opportunities.

These include:

  • a 4-year golden snapper stocking program
  • a new artificial reef habitat in a Reef Fish Protection Area that will be installed in 2026
  • fish aggregating devices (FADs) to provide pelagic fishing options.

Reef fishing management

For more information on how reef fish are managed, read:

Contact

For more information, contact NT Fisheries.

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