SEASON 11 of Million Dollar Fish (MDF) is off to a flying start, with the first $10,000 barra caught on the opening day of Australia’s richest fishing competition.
Darwin local Russell Kenny was fishing with his grandson at Corroboree Lagoon yesterday when a casual school holiday outing turned into a fishing trip they’ll never forget. The pair were thrilled when Kenny reeled in a 71cm barramundi carrying a red tag worth $10,000.
A long-time participant, Kenny has registered for Million Dollar Fish every year since the competition began in 2015 – a sure sign that persistence pays off.
“We were just casting soft plastics in the lilies and what not. The young bloke got a small one, and then I picked up that [red-tag] one.
“[I didn’t see the tag] straight away. It came away from the lilies and the grandson said, ‘Pa, it’s got a tag in it!’”
“We’re going away at Christmas time so that will help with that,” Kenny said.
The experienced fishing guide of 25 years is already planning to get back out on the water tomorrow, hoping to hook the million-dollar barra.
Million Dollar Fish is delivered by the Northern Territory Government and is supported by Sportsbet.
“Season 11 has started with a bang, and with so many prize-tagged barra still swimming in Territory waters, we’re looking forward to celebrating plenty more winners,” said Sportsbet Head of Operations NT, Thijs Bors.
As the official charity partner, Surf Life Saving NT will also benefit, receiving $1,000 thanks to this prize-winning catch.
There are still 99 red-tagged barramundi worth $10,000 waiting to be caught, along with 11 fish carrying the ultimate $1 million prize-tag.
Season 11 of the Million Dollar Fish competition runs until 31 March 2026. To be eligible to claim any prize money participants must be registered. Registration is free and automatically enters competitors into the monthly prize draw.
More info at www.milliondollarfish.com.au.
