A DARWIN fisherman has defied the odds by becoming the first person to catch two $10,000 prize tagged barramundi as part of the NT Government’s Million Dollar Fish competition.
Nathan Neave caught his first tagged barra on New Year’s Eve and his good luck continued on the weekend remarkably landing another of the prized fish in Darwin Harbour at the same secret family fishing spot that delivered his first win.
“I didn’t even think I would catch one of the fish let alone two,” Nathan said.
The 19 year old caught the 65 centimetre barra while fishing with childhood friend, Joseph Puntoriero. The two friends have been fishing together for many years but never quite experienced a day like this.
“The fish got snagged and we thought we were going to lose it and then when we saw it was a barra and then saw the red tag we couldn’t believe it.”
Nathan said he’ll be giving a share of his cash prize to his good friend and using the rest to fix his boat. The pair then plan on hitting the water again as soon as possible to try and catch the elusive $1 million barra.
Tourism NT CEO, Tony Mayell congratulated Nathan on his incredible achievement.
“Nathan will surely be the envy of fisherman around the nation after catching not one but two of the $10,000 tagged barramundi from the Million Dollar Fish competition,” said Mr Mayell.
“It truly is remarkable. I encourage everyone to tell their family and friends interstate to book a holiday up here to the Northern Territory and take part in this amazing competition while you can. You never know it could leave you one million dollars richer.”
