The worlds best fishing competition returns for an extended fourth season with more chances than ever to catch a $1 million fish.
This years competition will see the number of $1 million fish increased to five, which is expected to reel in fishing fanatics to the Territory and give a boost to tourism and local tourism operators and create jobs.
Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss said the Million Dollar Fish competition was helping to secure the Territorys place among the worlds most renowned fishing destinations.
The extended season runs from 1 October 2018 to 31 March 2019. Once the first major prize fish is caught, the remaining four $1 million fish will become $10,000 fish. If the $1 million fish is not caught within the competition timeframe, all five fish will remain active post-competition between 31 March 2019 to 30 September 2019, with the first to be caught awarding the participant $1 million.
There will also be 100 fish worth $10,000 each, and a special new category of 20 fish, with purple tags, worth $2,500 cash to the angler plus $2,500 to a Territory-based charity.
The Territory-based charities are selected by BetEasy are the NT Cancer Council, the NT Star Ball and the Junior Indigenous Guide Program.
Minister Moss thanked BetEasy for continuing its relationship with the Territory and providing the cash prizes.
Million Dollar Fish Season 4 has received strong support from sponsors including BetEasy, Iron Jack, Anaconda, Shimano, TIO, Big Fish Gear, Engel, Club Marine, Holidays of Australia and Tourism Top End.
Competition participants must register online at www.milliondollarfish.com.au.
As stated by Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss
Tourism in the Territory directly and indirectly employs more than 16,000 people and the Territory Labor Government is working hard to attract new visitors to enjoy our tourism experiences and create local jobs.
The Million Dollar Fish competition has helped boost the NTs reputation as one of the best places in the world to fish and season four has been extended with more chances to catch a prize winning fish.
The Million Dollar Fish competition is timed to grow visitor numbers to the Top End during our low season from October to February. Anglers are encouraged to travel with their families and enjoy the unique tourism moments and our beautiful landscapes.
As stated by BetEasy Strategic Partnerships Manager, Brad Fanning
The tagged barra can be caught during the competition season in all of the five regions including Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land regions all prime Territory fishing and tourism destinations.
Last season we had thirteen fish caught worth $10,000 each, and with conditions prime for fishing the question is, when will the first $1 million barra go off? With five chances, it could be this year!
For the first time in the history of the campaign, BetEasy are also tagging 20 charity fish. If a participant catches a tagged charity fish, they will win $2,500, with an additional $2,500 being donated to charity.
BetEasy is proud to be behind the greatest fishing competition ever, and were waiting for a huge pay day for one lucky angler.
As stated by Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Ken Vowles
The competition is a great way to experience the Territorys pristine waterways.
I urge fishos to be responsible on the water and ensure that they are aware of the applicable bag limits. It is also important to know the correct way to handle fish as a fish's chance of survival can be improved by using certain handling techniques, fishing gear and careful release back into the water.
Finally, remember to Be Crocwise at all times when fishing from land or boat. Beware of warning signs, be vigilant and dont forget your surroundings. Download the NT Fishing Mate App to find out more about fishing in the NT.
Good luck and tight lines - lets hope we see a Million Dollar Fish caught this year.
As stated by Million Dollar Fish Campaign Ambassador and Mate of the Territory, Matthew Hayden
All fishos should get on the competition website to register.
With five $1 million dollar barra in the water, every fisho should book a trip to the Top End and get amongst the action.
The Territorys peak barra fishing season is always spectacular and I think everyone should experience the thrill and adventure of hooking an iconic Top End barra.
