Fishing in crocodile habitat areas

If you fish in an area where there’s crocodile habitat, expect crocodiles to be nearby.

Crocodiles are attracted to good fishing spots as much as people are. Fish and crabs are an important food source for crocodiles.

Spearfishers are at high risk of attack because they are in the water and injured fish will attract both crocodiles and sharks.

Be vigilant when fishing in crocodile habitat areas to reduce your risk of a crocodile attack.

1. Keep your distance from the water while fishing.

   Stay 5 metres back from the water’s edge and never stand on logs or branches overhanging the water.

2. Never stand in water to cast off.

   A crocodile can attack even if you are in shallow water for a short time.

3. Keep your arms, legs and head away from the edge of boats, jetties or pontoons.  
4. Throw cast nets from your boat or a jetty.

   Crocodiles can attack people on the water’s edge. Standing in or close to the water when cast netting puts you in danger.

5. If a crocodile grabs your catch, leave it.

   Move as far away as possible while the crocodile is distracted.

6. If your lure gets caught, consider it gone.
   It’s not worth losing your limb or life trying to retrieve it.