​Northern Territory Bluewater Fishing Masterclass

A Fishing Masterclass in remote Arnhem Land with Starlo

Good things come to those who wait right? Well, as the owner and skipper of Cobourg Fishing Safaris I'd say I've waited long enough... Working in collaboration with fishing icons Steve (Starlo) and Jo Starling we've designed the ultimate Northern Territory fishing masterclass, an experience we are offering to the general public in October 2017. The idea was originally put on ice for the first couple of years after I met Steve and Jo at our safari camp on the Cobourg Peninsula, but now some five years later the dates are set and its grown into reality. To quote Steve himself;

It was sheer fate that first led me to fish the pristine waters of the Cobourg Peninsula back in 2011… and I've been working on getting back there ever since!

Over a four day period Cobourg Coastal Camp will play host to an intensive, yet relaxed (it is the Northern Territory after all!) tropical bluewater masterclass including all things fishing. In addition to four full days fishing you'll learn everything from tackle and tactics to techniques and cooking - its the complete anglers package. With two custom designed boats (and two expert skippers) Starlo, Jo and guests will hit the water each day fishing some of this countries most isolated waters. The package is available to just 6 anglers. 

Jo Starling with a big Cobourg Queenie in 2011

Spoilt for choice between reefs, rocks, estuaries and flats enjoy world-class fishing as well as the opportunity to pick the brains of Starlo and Jo about all things tackle and tactics. Then late-arvo each day Cobourg Coastal Camp's sunset bar will play host to further fishing clinics with a cold beverage in hand! The group will have sole-use of Cobourg Coastal Camp for the duration of the experience.

Keep in mind it doesn’t have to be all about the fishing. Add on activities can include:

• Hunting for mud crabs (with hooks and spears)
• Collecting oysters from the rocks
• Cultural activities such as bush tucker walks, campfire cooking, learning to play the didgeridoo
• Cooking demonstrations tailored towards local caught seafood 
• Throwing a cast net and more!

Now there are two options to choose from for the Masterclass; the standard fly in/fly out option and an extended 2 day drive in/fly out option. The later includes some touring in Kakadu and Arnhem Land en route to Cobourg (as well as a nights accommodation in Kakadu). Both tours return to Darwin by charter flight on the evening of the 16th of October. Departure dates are as followed:

• Standard Option: 4 nights/4 days. Departing Darwin Airport at 4pm 12 October 
• Extended Touring Option: 5 nights/6 days. Departing Darwin-based hotels at 7am 11 October 

For more information about each of these options please click here. Or call 08 8927 5500.

To reserve your spot please click here. 

Words by Hugh Gange.