The Northern Territory is famous for world-class fishing, and from October to March, there’s even more reason to cast a line. The Million Dollar Fish competition is back for Season 11, giving anglers the chance to reel in prize-tagged barramundi while exploring some of the NT’s most iconic fishing spots. If you’re planning a trip and searching for fishing in Darwin, Kakadu, or beyond, this is the event you don’t want to miss.
Want to know all about planning your trip to Darwin? Scroll to the bottom of the post to see which site locals use to book hotels, where trusted travelers book tours, and how to find the best flight deals. Or Click Here to be taken there now.
What is Million Dollar Fish?
Million Dollar Fish is Australia’s richest fishing competition, created in 2015 by Tourism NT and Northern Territory Major Events Company.
The event was designed to boost visitation to the Territory during the tropical summer and give anglers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to catch a barra worth a million bucks.
Specially tagged barramundi have been released across the NT’s five main fishing regions: Darwin, Arnhem Land, Kakadu, the Katherine River, and the Tiwi Islands. If you catch one and you’re registered, you could walk away a millionaire.
Over the years, the competition has awarded incredible cash prizes, supported the NT tourism industry, and contributed to its official charity partners.
A Look Back: Million Dollar Fish 2024 (Season 10)
Season 10 was a big year for Million Dollar Fish. Running from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, it saw plenty of action across the Top End’s main fishing regions. Dozens of lucky anglers snagged $10,000 barramundi, with prizes claimed in Darwin Harbour, the Mary River, and the Katherine River. The million-dollar fish wasn’t caught, which means that prized tag is still out there for Season 11 — along with million-dollar barra carried over from earlier years.
The 2024 season also showcased some fantastic giveaways, with entrants winning holiday packages, flights, and premium fishing gear. It was another successful year for the competition, keeping excitement high and once again helping to boost visitation to the NT.
How to Enter
It’s free to join. All you need to do is register online via the official Million Dollar Fish website.
You’ll enter your name, email address, postal code, home country, and age group to register.
However, you do have to be 18 or older to enter.
You must be registered to claim a prize. Once signed up, you’ll also be entered into the monthly prize draws, giving you even more chances to win.
What Makes Season 11 Special?
Season 11 of the Million Dollar Fish NT competition is shaping up to be the most exciting yet:
11 million-dollar barramundi are in play:
Nine from Season 9 still swimming free
One from Season 10
Plus one brand-new Season 11 barra
100 barramundi worth AUD10,000 each are also waiting to be caught in the NT’s best fishing regions.
With multiple 1 million fish swimming across the Top End, the stakes have never been higher.
Follow Us
Get your daily fix of Northern Territory beauty by following us on Instagram
Join our Newsletter List
Be the first to get travel hints and local recommendations.
Key Info & Dates for Season 11
Competition dates: Runs from 1 October 2025 – 31 March 2026
Where to fish: Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine River, Arnhem Land, and the Tiwi Islands.
Registration: Mandatory to claim prizes
Visit the official site for exact specifications, rules, and locations.
More Than Just Fishing
The Million Dollar Fish competition isn’t only about barra fishing. Every registered participant is automatically entered into monthly prize draws, with giveaways like:
- Top End holiday packages
- Airnorth flight vouchers
- Shimano fishing gear packs
- Million Dollar Fish merchandise
- Exclusive travel deals
And the best part? You don’t even need to fish to win. Simply registering keeps you in the running.
Why You Should Join
Million Dollar Fish brings together the Territory’s love of fishing with the thrill of winning life-changing money.
Whether you’re dreaming of catching your first barra, planning a barramundi fishing trip in Darwin, or hoping to reel in a million bucks, this event is unmatched. Since its launch, it has helped boost visitation, supported local businesses, and put NT fishing on the global map.
If you want a little help on your road to riches, see all of our fishing tours.
Can’t Make It to the Competition? Try a Fishing Tour
If you can’t be in the NT during Million Dollar Fish Season 11, you can still get a taste of the action with one of Norther’s guided fishing tours. These adventures let you explore the waterways and chase iconic barra without the competition pressure.
Heli Fishing
📍Darwin, NT
⏰ 8 hours (approx.)
For the dad who loves nothing more than casting a line, this Heli Fishing tour is a must-do. Imagine soaring over the remote, untouched landscapes of the Top End, where you’ll be guided to some of the region’s most secluded and prized fishing spots.
Whether your dad is a seasoned angler or just starting out, this adventure will be memorable. You’ll have the opportunity to fish for dominant species, including the iconic Barramundi, in locations so pristine they’re only accessible by helicopter.
With all the necessary gear provided, including rods, tackle, and refreshments, your dad can focus on a quiet day of fishing.
Want extra brownie points? Snag one of these cool fishing shirts.
Related: Exploring Groote Eylandt – Your Ultimate Weekend Guide
Half Day Private Fishing Charter
📍 Darwin Harbour, NT
⏰ 4 hours
Looking for a fun and memorable fishing experience around the Darwin region? This half-day charter offers a great opportunity to chase the iconic Barramundi and mud crabs in the area’s rich inshore waters.
The trip is led by Flo, a friendly and knowledgeable fishing guide known for providing a relaxed yet professional experience. With years of local insight, Flo helps guests target quality fish and enjoy a rewarding time on the water.
Anglers will use high-quality light tackle and a selection of lures suited for inshore fishing, giving them the best chance to hook into something special. It’s a great option for both beginners and experienced fishers looking to enjoy a taste of Top End fishing.
Whatever you decide to keep, Captain Flo is a certified chef too, he is happy to clean and filleted fish for customers.
Tiwi Islands Full Day Charter
📍Darwin, NT
⏰ 9 hours
The Tiwi Islands Full Day Charter offers a unique fishing experience in one of Australia’s most remote and beautiful locations.
Duration: 9 hours
Group Size: Up to 6 people (private charter available)
Highlights:
- Fish in the waters surrounding the Tiwi Islands, which is known for its abundant marine life.
- Experience stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Learn from Gerard, an expert with over 30 years of NT fishing experience.
Darwin Harbour 7-Hour Charter
📍Darwin, NT
⏰ 7 hours
Explore the rich marine life of the Northern Territory with the Darwin Harbour 7-Hour Charter. This top-rated Darwin tour offers a fantastic opportunity to fish in the pristine waters of Darwin Harbour.
Highlights:
- Fish in the rich waters of Darwin Harbour with expert guidance.
- Enjoy stunning views of the coastline, rivers, and billabongs.
- Ideal for families and anglers of all skill levels.
Dundee Beach Full Day Charter
📍Darwin, NT
⏰ 9 hours
Experience an epic day of fishing on the Dundee Beach Full Day Charter. This adventure is perfect for both seasoned anglers and beginners, offering the chance to explore the Northern Territory’s beautiful coastline, rivers, and billabongs. It’s one of the best Darwin tours and day trips for fishing enthusiasts.
Duration: 9 hours
Group Size: Up to 4 people (private charter available)
Highlights:
- Top-quality fishing gear is provided by Gerard, who has over 30 years of NT fishing experience.
- Stunning scenery and the opportunity to catch a variety of fish.
- Perfect for all experience levels, including beginners and families.
The Million Dollar Fish 2025/2026 season is shaping up to be the best yet, with more tagged fish, bigger cash prizes, and greater chances to become a millionaire. Running from 1 October 2025 through 31 March 2026, this competition highlights the NT’s top fishing regions – from Darwin to Kakadu, Arnhem Land, the Katherine River, and the Tiwi Islands.
Whether you’re here to catch a barra worth 1 million, enjoy the incredible monthly giveaways, or take advantage of special travel deals, there’s no better time to visit the Top End. And if you can’t make it for the season, Norther.com.au has plenty of fishing tours to make sure you still get the ultimate NT barra experience.
Get your daily fix of Northern Territory beauty courtesy of Norther® by following @northerhq. You can also check out more Northern Territory content by following Norther on Facebook. Please sign up here to join our newsletter list to be the first to get travel hints and local recommendations for National Parks and Destinations in the NT.
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. Cover More is our favourite travel insurance provider to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
