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Fisheries Sampling Techniques

Description 

Fisheries fieldwork depends on accurate habitat data, sound sampling methods, and correct fish identification and records. 

Fisheries Sampling Techniques is a six-hour, self-paced online course that covers stream ecology and measurement, fish inventory methods, fish identification, and fish biological sampling. You will learn the terms, measurements, and calculations that fisheries crews use, and how to record what you observe. These competencies provide a foundation for fisheries and aquatic fieldwork and hands-on training. 

Program Outcomes 

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be able to: 

  1. Describe riparian zones, stream scales, and habitat units, and interpret stream measurements of width, depth, substrate, gradient, velocity, and discharge. 
  2. Explain how to select appropriate fish capture methods and calculate sampling effort using trap-hours and catch per unit effort (CPUE). 
  3. Identify fish to the family level using external morphological characteristics and record field-identification information. 
  4. Explain procedures for safe fish handling, husbandry, measurement, weighing, determining sex, and using anaesthetics. 
  5. Describe best practices for photographing fish and explain how scales, fin rays, and otoliths are used to estimate age. 

Certification  

To recieve an NRTG certificate of completion, you must complete all online modules and achieve a minimum grade of 80% on the assessment.  

Prerequisites 

No formal prerequisites are required. A basic understanding of biology or ecology, such as organism classification, aquatic ecosystems, or general field science, is recommended. 

Who attends? 

This course is for you if you want foundational training in fisheries sampling techniques. You are a good fit if you: 

  • Work in, or want to work in, fisheries, aquatic ecology, or environmental consulting  
  • Are an Indigenous land guardian, Watchman, or community member involved in stewarding fish and fish habitat 
  • Study biology or environmental science, or recently graduated, and are preparing for seasonal fisheries fieldwork 
  • Have field or laboratory experience but no formal training in fisheries sampling methods 
  • Are preparing for further in-person fisheries field training 

How do I attend? 

This course is available in two formats: 

  1. Self-Paced Online: Complete the course on your own schedule, with optional instructor support. Register through the Upcoming Courses listing at the top of the page. 
  2. Private Instructor-Led: Available to communities and organizations, online or in-person. Contact us in advance of your preferred start date.    

What do I bring or supply? 

You will need:  

  • Computer 
  • Stable internet access 

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