We pride ourselves on maintaining a small, personal approach, where every team member contributes to delivering an exceptional fishing experience. Our team is made up of highly skilled, knowledgeable and attentive professionals who are passionate about providing outstanding service. Their deep respect for the local culture and environment, paired with an unwavering commitment to safety and service excellence, underpins our ongoing success.
Owner
Hugh Gange
Director, guide and skipper
Originally from country Victoria, Hugh developed a deep connection to the outdoors from an early age, with a passion for fishing, Aboriginal culture and exploring remote landscapes. After completing a degree in Ecotourism in Melbourne, he relocated to the Northern Territory at just 20, where he spent several years guiding throughout the Top End. He later partnered with his brother Aaron to establish Cobourg Fishing Safaris under their brand, Venture North.
Today, Hugh is an award-winning guide with more than 15 years of experience fishing the remote waters of the Cobourg Peninsula. With an obvious passion for fishing, and a deep appreciation for local wildlife and Indigenous culture, Hugh creates fishing trips often much more than just wetting a line.
Our fishing guides
Travis
‘Trav’ is Cobourg Coastal Camp Manager and Head Fishing Skipper, based at the camp full-time during the dry season where he keeps things running smoothly. A true Territory bloke, he’s known for his laid-back style, the occasional “yeh nah,” and his love of taking guests out on the water for an amazing day out. With years of experience fishing across the Top End, Kimberley and Tasmania, he’s a highly capable guide both on land and sea. When he’s not working, you’ll find him out exploring with his family, usually with a rod near by.
Nick Polotnianka
Raised in the Northern Territory, Nick spent his early years on Groote Eylandt in East Arnhem Land and sailing the world with his family, a lifestyle that sparked a natural passion for the outdoors and ocean. An avid and partly obsessed fisherman, Nick went on to study Marine Science at the University of Tasmania, while also working as a guide in the renowned Freycinet National Park. After returning to the Northern Territory to thaw out (!), Nick has become one of Cobourg Fishing Safaris most valued and long-standing team members. Today, he shares his deep love and understanding of the Top End with guests as both a tour guide and a fishing guide.