Crocodile climbs onto NT fisherman's boat
Experts call for fishers to remain 'wary' as crocodile breeding season approaches
The fisherman had been floating along the Mary River alone when his boat was attacked by a crocodile. (Supplied: Amateur Fishermen's Association NT)
In short:
An NT fisherman has escaped a close call with a crocodile that damaged his boat while climbing aboard in the Mary River.
The Amateur Fishermen's Association NT says it serves as a warning of how quickly and quietly crocodiles can appear.
Crocodile researcher Grahame Webb says crocodiles are moving around more in the hot weather, as breeding season approaches.
The NT's peak recreational fisher's association is urging Territory fishers to stay croc-wise, after one of its members recently escaped an encounter with one of the predators.
The Amateur Fishermen's Association NT president David Ciaravolo said the man, who wished to remain anonymous, was fishing alone on the Mary River this month when he was met with quite a fright.
The crocodile crawled onto the man's boat and only retreated after being hit on the head with a fishing rod. (Supplied: Amateur Fishermen's Association NT)
"The gentleman bent down to the esky and turned around and had the head of a huge crocodile right before him," Mr Ciaravolo said.
"The crocodile was perched on the gunwale of the boat with it's claws into it, it's actually damaged the boat.
"He said, 'If I didn't have that rod in my hand, I didn't know if I would still be here'. He had to use the rod to defend himself and deter the crocodile."
Mr Ciaravolo said, although the run-in had left the man shaken, he was unharmed, and wanted others to be aware of how quickly and quietly the crocodile appeared.
Crocodiles become more aggressive around this time of year. (ABC News: Marcus Kennedy)
"From my understanding, the first he knew of the crocodile was when he was face-to-face with the crocodile," Mr Ciaravolo said.
"Even if you're experienced, even if you're always croc-wise like this gentleman always is, crocodiles can still surprise you."
A Parks and Wildlife NT spokesperson confirmed rangers had visited the location and would "continue management efforts until the crocodile is removed".
Experts warn this kind of territorial behaviour is more common as crocodiles breed in the hotter months. (Supplied: Amateur Fishermen's Association NT)
Breeding season danger
As the weather continues to warm and the Top End enters the build-up period, crocodiles are approaching breeding season.
Crocodile researcher Grahame Webb said, as the water heats up, crocodiles get more territorial and active.
"It's heading into the breeding season, some animals are being displaced, others are moving around," Professor Webb said.
"There's more crocs moving, and they're burning energy moving so they need more food, so it is that time of year to be extra wary."
Grahame Webb wants people in the NT to be more aware of the risk posed by crocodiles this time of year. (ABC News: Dane Hirst)
This month, a crocodile on a Darwin beach attacked and killed a local resident's dog and other pet owners around the city have had close calls.
In a statement, Parks and Wildlife NT said rangers wanted to remind people to be vigilant in Territory waters this time of year.
"Fishing tips include not 'swimming' a fish before release, but rather 'spearing' the fish back into the water; staying back from the water's edge including when launching or retrieving boats," the spokesperson said.
"We are serious about removing problem crocodiles to help ensure the safety of people enjoying the Territory lifestyle."
Other safety tips include being mindful of where a crocodile can approach from, paying close attention if you are netting or landing a fish, and always trying to be aware of your surroundings.