The crocodile is estimated to be 4m and is being targeted for removal from the wild.
The floating trap has been set in the Pink Lily region.
A floating trap has been deployed in the Fitzroy River to capture a large crocodile around ten kilometres upstream from the barrage.
Wildlife officers from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) confirmed the presence of the crocodile in the Pink Lily area on Monday.
Senior Wildlife Officer Josh Morris said the floating trap was set on Tuesday, and wildlife officers were able to photograph the animal.
"It is a large animal, and it is a reminder that Rockhampton is croc country and there is a population of crocodiles in the Fitzroy River, above and below the barrage," Mr Morris said.
"In response to crocodile sighting reports, wildlife officers conducted multiple, comprehensive spotlight surveys of the Fitzroy River above the barrage in April and May.
"We surveyed 20 kilometres of the river during those surveys and confirmed the presence of a number of crocodiles, mostly less than 2 metres in size.
"During the last two surveys, we confirmed the presence of a crocodile greater than 2 metres in size."
"The area around Pink Lily is used for recreational water sports and it is mapped as Zone C under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
"In Zone C, any crocodiles confirmed to be present that are 2m or larger are targeted for removal from the wild.
"If this crocodile is removed from the wild, people still have to Be Crocwise as the Fitzroy River is typical habitat for crocodiles and they will continue to be present in the area.
"In 2023, wildlife officers have investigated 32 crocodile sighting reports in the Rockhampton region, with fifteen crocodiles reported above the barrage.
'Entering the water in croc country is a choice. Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in croc country."
Mr Morris advised people to stay away from the Pink Lily area while the trap was deployed.
"This will give us the best chance at capturing the crocodile, and it is an offence to interfere with a crocodile trap," he said.
"If the animal is captured, it will be sent to a farm or zoo.
"People in the Rockhampton area are urged to report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner, and wildlife officers investigate every sighting report."
Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES by using the QWildlife app, submitting a sighting report via the DES website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
The Rockhampton region is known Croc country.
It's important everyone in Croc Country practices "Crocwise" behaviour, in particular:
- Expect crocodiles in all waterways even if there is no warning sign
- Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
- Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
- Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
- The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
- Stand back from the water's edge when fishing and don't wade in to retrieve a lure
- Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
- Never provoke, harass, or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.
