NT Water Police conducted a major operation over the Easter weekend -'Operation Runoff'. Teams patrolled popular fishing and boating locations such as Dundee, Shady Camp and the Darwin Harbour across the five day weekend.

Water Police teams spoke to about 1500 persons and conducted 747 fisheries possession limit checks as well as 428 boating safety gear checks.

Senior Sergeant Stephen Martin said they were not surprised to see the large number of people out on the water, considering the great dry season weather an extra long weekend.

"As we expected, a large number of people were enticed out onto the water and we were out there to ensure that everyone stayed safe.

"Personal safety out on the water is important and it is easy to become complacent when the conditions are good. It only takes a momentary lapse of concentration to create a potential tragedy on the water.

"A man believed to be under the influence of alcohol remains in hospital after crashing his boat into rocks just off of Nhulunbuy on Friday. Alcohol and being out on the water do not mix," he said.

Police issued 70 cautions and educated the public where minor offences were detected. One person was arrested at a RBT conducted at a Darwin boat ramp. One person was summonsed in relation to exceeding the possession limit of Jewfish.

Senior Sergeant Martin praised the behaviour and attitude of the vast majority of water users over the weekend.

"We were very pleased with the behaviour of most people out on the water over the Easter Break - their attitude and focus on safety was pleasing to see.

"Our focus over the weekend was to continue with education in regard to safety and the protection of the fishery. A continuing issue remains the requirement to leave the skin on all fillets until they return home.

"I would like to praise the efforts of most Territorians out there enjoying a great weekend out on the water," he said.

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