One week in to the Million Dollar Fish competition three people have each landed a $10,000 prize-tagged barra.
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On Saturday 18-year-old William Budd caught the prized 58 centimetre barra off the Southport Boat Ramp, Berry Springs – a regular fishing spot across the road from his house.
The other lucky fisho to reel in a $10,000 barra was James McDonald, who caught a 63cm prize-tagged barra in Shady Camp Lagoon while fishing with mates and became the third winner in Season 3 of the competition.
NT resident George Voukolos pulled the first money fish out of the water late last week.
Contest officials said at least one tagged fish has been released in the Katherine region.
The Million Dollar Fish competition kicked off on October 1 with the $1 Million tagged barramundi still to be caught.
“I’m delighted to see two fish both worth $10,000 each go off, what a fantastic weekend of fishing in the Top End, congratulations to both William and James,” said Tourism and Culture CEO Alastair Shields.
“The Million Dollar Fish competition is a great initiative that has helped to boost the NT’s reputation as the best place in the world to stay, play and fish and lure more visitors to the Territory during our low season from October to February,” Mr Shields said.
“I encourage all anglers and their families to come to the Territory, try their luck at catching the million dollar fish and enjoy our unique tourism experiences while they’re here.
In Season 3 of the competition, 101 barramundi have been tagged and released across the Territory with 100 carrying $10,000 cash prize tags.
That means there are still 97 $10,000 barra's lurking and the prized million dollar fish to be caught, plus a fantastic haul of prizes to be won just by registering for the competition.
Mr McDonald was the third person to catch a winning fish this season.
“It was pretty hectic when we caught it, lots of man loving and hugging,” Mr McDonald said.
For information on NT fishing regulations and best practice catch and release methods download the free Northern Territory Fishing Mate app on your smart phone.
Register for free on www.milliondollarfish.com.au
