While Territorians surely suffer no dearth of world-class spots to camp and wet a line, the Mary River system is something else.

Home to the notorious Shady Camp, this system is renowned around the country as perhaps your best bet for getting connected to a huge, rampaging wild barramundi.

The famous fishing camp draws in hordes of hopeful fishos from around the country each year. It’s little wonder the punters keep coming back, as some of the biggest barra anywhere have been hooked in these here waters, and when the fishing is on, the action can be crazy.

Some of the roads in the area are unsealed, which can result in closures after periods of heavy rain.

STUFF TO DO

4WDING throughout the park is pretty standard and gentle during the dry season, although the corrugations are as inescapable as everywhere else in this part of the world. Conditions change quickly after heavy rain and road closures are common throughout the wet season.

FISHING is the primary objective of most of the travellers plying the park’s waters, and they’ve generally got eyes for just the one species.

The mighty barra is the primary target out here, and you won’t go wrong casting standard minnow profiles like Bombers and Reidys B52s. Definitely pack the heavy gear and remember to hang on.

IMPORTANT INFO

LOCATION: 150km east of Darwin, Mary River is within range of daytrips from the capital. Access is via the Arnhem Highway and is most reliable through the dry season.

CAMPING is available at Couzens Lookout and Shady Camp. Toilets are provided but visitors are advised to bring their own firewood and drinking water.

FUEL is available at Darwin.

MORE INFO is available at www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au