A funeral was being planned Wednesday for an Australian fisherman believed to have been taken by a large crocodile while standing in chest-deep water.

The 54-year-old's belongings, including his wallet and fishing rod, were found on Elcho Island, some 515 kilometres (320 miles) east of Darwin on Sunday, the Northern Territory News said.

At least three large saltwater crocodiles had been seen in the area. One was shot during a search and cut open, but no human remains were found inside.

"Obviously the family are distraught and very upset about the fact that he's gone. We believe he has drowned or was taken by a crocodile," said senior sergeant Brendan Muldoon.

Meanwhile, a monster 4.64-metre (15-foot) crocodile was caught near a popular tourist park, also in Australia's north, earlier this week.

Rangers had to use a four-wheel drive vehicle to drag the 600-kilogram beast from its trap close to the Nitmiluk National Park.

Croc catcher Tommy Nichols said it was the biggest animal found this year.

"He was nice and fat," he said. "And he had no injuries which was unusual for a croc of his size."

The creature was taken to a nearby crocodile farm where it will be used as a show animal.