Rules for fishing on Aboriginal land

Fishing rules and codes of conduct

All of the following code of conduct rules apply on Aboriginal land:

• all fishing possession limits and rules apply in all areas of the NT, whether on Aboriginal land or not
• certain areas may be temporarily closed for cultural ceremonies with little or no notice
• do not enter areas containing identified sacred sites
• follow alcohol restrictions for the area
• do not enter no-fishing zones
• take only the fish you need and follow the guidelines for releasing your catch
• be courteous to other water users and the local Aboriginal community
• do not clean or dispose of fish near an Aboriginal community
• remove rubbish and dispose of it correctly to avoid trapping birds and aquatic creatures.

Apply for a permit

You need a permit to enter Aboriginal land. You may also need a permit if you want to fish on or access tidal waters overlying Aboriginal land.

For more information or to apply for a permit go to the Northern Land Council website. You can contact the council by phone on 1800 645 299.

For information about fishing at the Tiwi Islands, including how to get camping permits, go to the Tiwi Land Council website.

To find out about fishing at Groote Eylandt, including how to get camping permits, go to the Anindilyakwa Land Council website.