Torch saves boatie after sinking

A MAN was found drifting at sea holding a torch and emergency beacon near Channel Rock in Darwin Harbour after his boat sank.

Torch

A MAN was found drifting at sea holding a torch and emergency beacon near Channel Rock in Darwin Harbour after his boat sank.

Police said the man - whose boat sank on Saturday night - was lucky to be seen by a person in a fishing boat who rescued him.

The man was transferred to a pilot vessel and was returned safely to shore.

The open waters are known to be frequented by saltwater crocodiles and deadly box jellyfish.

Territory Water Police are investigating the circumstances of the sinking.

NT Water Police Sergeant John Pini said it was a busy weekend on the water.

"One vessel ran out of fuel in Bynoe Harbour during the day and required assistance overnight due to adverse weather conditions," Sgt Pini said.

The skipper was issued a notice to go to court for failing to carry required safety equipment.

"Another vessel offshore from Shoal Bay called for assistance due to risk of being swamped but was able to recover themselves to shore and the rescue response was cancelled," he said.

Sgt Pini said it was "imperative to check the weather carefully before going to sea and to ensure you have the required safety equipment for the voyage".

He said it was also important to "count your catch" and stay within legal possession limits when fishing.

"Earlier in the day a man was located with two golden snapper in excess of the possession limit," Sgt Pini said. The man will appear in court in the new year.

"Due to concerns about golden snapper and black jewfish populations, in particular, Water Police will be checking catch for those species," Sgt Pini said.