Spearfishing

Spearfishing is a method of fishing that involves spearing fish either while diving, off a boat or off the shore. Ancient spearfishers used sharpened sticks, however today they use elastic or pneumatic powered spearguns. Spearfishing can be done as free-diving (holding your breath), snorkeling or scuba diving.

Spearfishing is most commonly done while diving – whether shore diving, boat diving or blue water hunting. Shore diving involves hunting around reefs, rocks or sand, entering the water from beaches or headlands. Usually these dives produce reef fish. Boat diving involves using a boat to access an offshore location, such as a reef, to dive off. Blue water hunting involves fishing in very deep and clear water, where the boat driver drops divers and allows them to drift with the current to fish before collecting them.

Those who spearfish without diving usually wade into shallow water and use a hand spear. They have to take into consideration optical refraction though, which makes fish appear further away than they are. So water clarity is very important.

Spearfishing on the Reef

The Great Barrier Reefis the world’s largest coral reef system and listed as a World Heritage Site. Since it is a marine park there are some special guidelines to follow when spearfishing there. First, spear only what you need. Secondly, do not pursue a fish if you are unsure of its identity or size. This is because it is prohibited to take protected fish species in the Reef Park unless you have a Marine Parks permit. These include species such as seahorses, seadragons, barramundi cods, whale sharks, grey nurse sharks, great white sharks, potato cods and Queensland groupers.

Thirdly, do not take big fish merely as trophies since these are important breeding stock. Lastly, always track down injured fish – don’t let them swim off injured. Fishers should also be aware of the different restrictions for fishing zones on the Reef. For example, there is no fishing allowed in the Scientific Research, Marine National Park or Preservation Zones.

Daintree Activities

If you are planning a holiday to Far North Queensland, Heritage Lodge is the perfect place to stay. This holiday resort is located on Cape Tribulation, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, just across the Daintree River. Heritage Lodge offers accommodation for couples and families alike, with facilities such as a fully licensed restaurant and a day spa.

The Daintree Area has heaps of activities for those wanting to learn about the Daintree Rainforest or the Great Barrier Reef. You can take a crocodile cruise to try to spot a great saltwater crocodile in the Daintree River, take a tour through the rainforest with a 4WD safari, go on a guided walk, or explore the reef and all its marine life while snorkeling or scuba diving.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is another fun way to see the Daintree region. You can take a ride across the pristine beaches of the Daintree Coast or along rainforest trails with freshwater swimming holes. Some horse riding tours will even pick you up from wherever you’re staying. Just let them know what riding experience you have – it is important to be matched to a suitable horse otherwise it can lead to dangerous situations.

The beginner level includes those who have never ridden a horse, those who have ridden a horse less than 30 times, or those who are not confident trotting or controlling a horse. An intermediate rider is one who has a bit of riding experience and is confident controlling the horse. Advanced riders are confident in every aspect of riding, have several years experience and continue to ride frequently. Horse riding lessons are also available for those who like to improve their riding skills.

Just remember to wear comfortable clothing, including long pants and closed in shoes. Most riding tours will provide riders with helmets, and sometimes riding boots as well.

Saltwater Crocodiles

Saltwater crocodiles (crocodylus porosus), also known as estuarine crocodiles, are the largest reptiles in existence today. They are found throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Australia and the Eastern coast of India. Generally, Saltwater crocodiles spend the tropical wet season in freshwater swamps and rivers, moving downstream to estuaries and even out to sea during the dry season.

Australia has both Saltwater and Freshwater crocodiles, but only Saltwater crocodiles are found in the Daintree area. The Saltwater crocodiles are very competitive over territories and will fight each other for the best stretches of creeks and streams. Attacks on humans are very rare, however when they do occur, they are usually fatal due to the crocodile’s size and strength. They can also travel quite quickly, but usually cruise around 3km/hr. Male crocs can reach 23 feet in length, while females only reach about 10 feet. Saltwater crocs are carnivores and will eat snakes, cattle or anything it can get. Yet they are also quite shy, so can be hard to spot.

Crocodile Cruises

When you stay at Heritage Lodge, located between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, there are plenty of adventure activities to participate in. From snorkeling to 4WD tours, kayaking and fishing, there is something for everyone to do and learn about the Daintree at the same time. If you want to discover more about the Saltwater crocodiles you can take a crocodile cruise on the Daintree River and try to spot some.

Saltwater crocodiles are found in all the tidal creeks of the Daintree coast, and sometimes further inland. The crocodiles are attracted to the Daintree River because it is big and shallow, so it warms up in the months between November and May.

Crocodiles have no way of creating body heat internally so they are attracted to warm water, but will also enjoy cool water when they get too hot. So low tide, cool water and warm sun creates excellent spotting conditions.