An early morning crossing of the Roper Bar is a spectacular scene.
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A beautiful scene guaranteed to warm the heart of many an enthusiastic fisherman just about to put the boat in for a spot of fishing in the freshwater reaches of this iconic river.
It is easy to forget in these shallow stretches of river, where the clear water means that you can see the cherabin hiding in among the rocks on the bottom that saltwater crocodiles also like to hunt where the fish are hiding.
Please remember to be crocwise while you are fishing.
Never feed crocodiles, they will start to identify the arrival of a tinny with the arrival of their dinner.
Keep your arms and legs inside the boat at all times.
While dangling your feet in the water may be a great way to cool off - it is also a great way to provide a crocodile with an easy target.
If you are fishing from the bank stand five metres from the water's edge and keep a barrier between you and the water at all times if possible.
Logs or rocks are ideal for this and can also provide a handy place to rest your gear when rebaiting a hook.
Don't clean your catch, prepare food or wash at the water's edge.
Saltwater crocodiles have been known to pull unwary victims into the water.
They can also smell your catch for up to a kilometre away and will hone in on the scent of your prize barra.
Avoid bleeding your catch on the water.
Use a kill tub if you have to.
Any fish blood or entrails deposited into the water will catch the interest of passing crocs.
If you use a net to retrieve and revive fish you can avoid leaning over the edge of the boat making the whole process of catch and release safer for everyone.
Finally, no matter how much you paid for that fancy lure, it is not worth more than you are.
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