Our experience on a 3 day/4 night Fishing Safari, June 2023
In the remote reaches of Arnhem Land, lies Dhipirri a haven for avid anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure. Accessible only by a two-hour private plane ride from Darwin, this secluded paradise boasts exceptional fishing opportunities amidst breathtaking natural beauty. During our three-day fishing expedition, our group of spirited individuals experienced moments of triumph, camaraderie, and unexpected surprises. From Jim’s remarkable Cobia catch to Trevor’s quiet achievements as the “Cod Man,”our journey in Dhipirri became an extraordinary tale of fish, friendship, and adventure.
Day One – A Cobia Catch and Swollen Ankles
Our fishing adventure began with a bang as Jim proudly reeled in a magnificent Cobia. His enthusiasm for being the first to catch a fish on the trip stirred envy in Peter, who had raced up the Stuart Highway despite just recovering from pneumonia. As the days unfolded, a running joke emerged about swollen ankles, playfully naming them “pig’s trotters.” Jim, Trevor, Peter, and Jo, all over 60, chuckled at their shared predicament, their spirits undeterred by minor discomfort.
Trevor’s unassuming nature belied his fishing prowess. He emerged as the quiet achiever, consistently reeling in impressive catches, earning him the nickname “Cod Man” among our group.
Carole’s Beer Topping and Indigenous Connections
Amidst the excitement of the fishing adventure, Carole stood out as a lively presence. While her husband watched over the group, Carole happily topped up the beers, nurturing a jovial atmosphere. Her love for hunting wild buffalo sparked animated conversations and shared stories among the group.
However, Day 2 proved to be a challenging one, with all the fish being on the smaller side. Despite the lack of success, the group remained optimistic, knowing that fishing trips can be unpredictable. Drowned the day’s sorrows at the bar that night!
Day 3: Peter’s Triumph and Unexpected Encounters
Ricky set the days Fishing Challenge for the day today The Mc Masters verses the Ring In’s! And the Ring In’s won the days title of the most fish!
On the third day, Peter lifted his spirits with the first big fish of the morning—a good-sized trevally. This catch was followed by another two, reigniting Peter’s confidence and sparking a renewed energy among the group. However, the unexpected awaited Peter as he reeled in two 2-meter black-tipped sharks, leaving him both exhilarated and with a slightly bruised stomach! Can’t say to much about the going’s on Reeling in the Shark, Ryan! 🤨
Reflection and Connections
While Day 2 may not have been as successful in terms of catch, it reminded us that fishing trips are about more than just the size of the fish. The camaraderie, shared stories, banter and unexpected encounters added richness to our journey. We laughed, bonded, and reveled in the beauty of Arnhem Land, recognizing that every day on the water holds its own surprises and joys.
One of the trip’s highlights came when we decided to give the fish we caught to the local Indigenous community. Witnessing their gratitude and being part of their traditions created a profound connection, reminding us of the importance of sustainable fishing practices and cultural exchange.
Conclusion:
Our time at Dhipirri, the Barra and Sportfishing Lodge in Arnhem Land, was nothing short of extraordinary. The bond forged among our group, including Peter’s determination, Jo’s skillful fishing, Carole’s infectious enthusiasm, Ryan’s sense of humour, Ricky and Jims Competitive edge, Trevor’s bar tab win, made this journey even more memorable. We learned the value of supporting one another and embracing the unexpected moments that create lifelong memories. Dhipirri, with its pristine waters and breathtaking surroundings, will forever hold a special place in our hearts as a remote haven that brought us together in pursuit of adventure and the thrill of the catch.
