The vision

The below scenario is a description of the future of recreational fishing in the Territory 10 years from now. It sets a course for the outcomes, strategies and actions in the recreational fishing development plan 2023 to 2033.

This 10-year vision was developed based on a significant amount of fisher feedback and stakeholder input.

In 2033….

A vibrant, valuable, inclusive and resilient recreational fishing sector is sustained by an abundance of important fish species and healthy and productive habitats and ecosystems across the Territory. Recreational fishing resources and environments are safeguarded by effective fisheries and environmental management frameworks, systems and practices. Recreational fishers are recognised as being important stewards of fishing resources and habitats.

A huge variety of fishing opportunities, meeting the expectations of Territory locals and tourists alike, are enabled by diverse fishing retail services, tourism providers, infrastructure, and land and sea access arrangements. Overcrowding is managed by the wealth of fishing locations and opportunities across the Territory.

Responsible freedoms cherished by Territorians continue through appropriate laws, an effective enforcement presence, high levels of voluntary compliance, highly accessible and effective safety services, and widespread social licence.

The social, cultural, economic, health and well-being benefits created by recreational fishing is ever-growing and well understood. Through strong leadership and representation, these benefits are recognised and celebrated by governments, decision makers and influencers. This has attracted investment, skills, research and capacity building to create an ever-more capable, diverse, adaptable, productive and innovative recreational fishing sector.

There are high levels of respect and understanding for the Aboriginal land and waters in which a large portion of recreational fishing occurs. This is underpinned by strong and inclusive relationships and partnerships, which has created high levels of cohesion, collaboration and mutual recognition across the recreational fishing sector. Shared values, knowledge, respect and cross-cultural skills and capability has paved the way for the shared use of recreational fishing resources and the achievement of mutually beneficial outcomes and aspirations.

The recreational fishing sector is extremely well-prepared to meet the challenges of significant external forces, including climate change, population change, and evolving domestic and international political pressures.

The success of the recreational fishing sector, underpinned by the implementation and ongoing review of the recreational fishing development plan 2023 to 2033, has enabled the creation of new and innovative fishing opportunities on Darwin’s doorstep and across regional and remote areas to support sustainable development in the Territory.