Body retrieved after croc attack

A 57-year-old fisherman was attacked and killed by a crocodile in front of his wife while they were fishing in the Northern Territory.

A saltwater crocodile in the Adelaide River near Darwin. The body of a man taken by a crocodile has been retrieved.

The man was fishing off a bank on the Adelaide River when the attack happened, Northern Territory Police say.

His body was recovered overnight on Tuesday and the crocodile believed responsible shot dead. 

A report is being prepared for the coroner. 

The couple were fishing near the Adelaide River bridge on the Arnhem Highway.

The Adelaide River is known for its crocodile population and attracts tourists who cruise its waters to see the reptiles.

The man's wife raised the alarm after the attack about 5.30pm Monday.

She was later treated in Royal Darwin Hospital for shock.