NT angler assaulted by catfish
Fisho found writhing in pain and bleeding profusely, while his mate takes off with the catchYou have to love the police reports from the Northern Territory. What with crocs, barra, pigs, pythons, cyclones and now catfish among the dangers attracting the attention of the local constabulary.
Just after 9pm on Sunday (September 20) evening, Northern Territory Police and St Johns received a report from a concerned citizen that there appeared to have been a male seriously assaulted near the beach off East Point Road at Fannie Bay, a popular waterfront suburb, in Darwin.
Upon arrival of police, St John Ambulance officers were already on scene speaking with a 45 year old male with a considerable amount of blood around his head.
This male stated he was fishing with a friend when he caught a 30cm catfish. Upon pulling the fish in, he tried to flick it up onto the bank. However, the fish flew towards him and struck him to left side of his head.
The impact caused the venomous back spine of the fish to lodge into the side of his head. The victim writhed in pain and bled profusely while his friend calmly took possession of the prize catch.
St John treated the poor embarrassed male, who came within a whisker of sustaining more serious injuries, while police gave pertinent fishing advice about the safe landing and handling of catfish.
Remember folks, its NT Water Safety Week – be careful out there. Report filed by Duty Superintendent Louise Jorgensen, NT Police.
Photo of the culprit, a bad catty, from LandAngler's blog.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
