Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fish Trapper

🎯 Role Definition

The Fish Trapper is a specialized field technician responsible for the execution of fish population monitoring, research, and management projects. This role involves the systematic capture, identification, and data collection of fish species using a variety of trapping and sampling techniques. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with fisheries biologists and scientists to gather high-quality data essential for stock assessments, habitat evaluation, invasive species control, and the overall understanding of aquatic ecosystem dynamics. This position demands physical fitness, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work effectively in challenging outdoor environments and variable weather conditions.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Fisheries Technician Intern
Biology Field Assistant
Deckhand / Commercial Fisher
Aquaculture Technician

Advancement To:

Senior Fisheries Technician / Field Crew Leader
Fisheries Biologist
Hatchery Manager
Conservation Officer

Lateral Moves:

Wildlife Technician
Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist
Water Quality Technician
Habitat Restoration Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Deploy, retrieve, and maintain a diverse array of passive and active fish capture gear, including fyke nets, hoop nets, gill nets, seines, and minnow traps, according to established scientific protocols.
Conduct systematic fish population surveys and inventories in lakes, rivers, and streams to support ongoing stock assessment and long-term monitoring programs.
Accurately identify fish species native and non-native to the region, meticulously recording species composition and relative abundance at each sampling site.
Perform detailed biological work-ups on captured fish, including measuring lengths (total, fork, standard), recording weights, and assessing overall health and condition.
Collect various biological samples such as scales, otoliths, fin clips, and tissue for age, growth, genetic, and diet analysis in the laboratory.
Apply tags (e.g., PIT tags, anchor tags, floy tags) to individual fish as part of mark-recapture studies to estimate population size, movement patterns, and survival rates.
Operate, navigate, and maintain small watercraft, including outboard motorboats, john boats, and canoes, often in remote or challenging water bodies.
Precisely record field data in standardized formats using field notebooks, ruggedized tablets, or other digital data-logging devices, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Utilize GPS units and GIS mapping applications to navigate to predetermined sampling locations and to accurately map habitat features and trap locations.
Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs on all sampling equipment, vehicles, boats, and trailers to ensure operational readiness and safety.
Assist fisheries biologists with the setup and operation of electrofishing equipment (backpack, tote-barge, or boat-mounted units) for fish population sampling.
Meticulously enter, proof, and manage collected field data within databases (e.g., Microsoft Access, Excel), performing quality assurance and quality control checks.
Monitor and document the presence, distribution, and abundance of aquatic invasive species, and assist in implementing control or removal efforts when required.
Conduct water quality measurements using electronic meters and other instruments, collecting data on parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity.
Assist in the construction, modification, and repair of fish traps, nets, and other specialized sampling gear as needed.
Adhere strictly to all established safety procedures and protocols for fieldwork, boat operation, and equipment handling to maintain a safe working environment.
Assist in the logistical planning of field sampling trips, including preparing equipment, coordinating with team members, and ensuring all necessary supplies are available.
Collaborate effectively as part of a field crew, communicating clearly with team members and supervisors to accomplish daily and weekly project goals.
Occasionally interact with the public, landowners, and anglers to answer questions, provide information about research activities, and promote conservation ethics.
Support fish hatchery operations, which may include tasks like fish sorting, feeding, facility maintenance, and assisting with fish stocking and transport activities.
Contribute to the summarization of data and assist in the preparation of draft sections for internal memos, technical reports, and project summaries.
Evaluate and document fish habitat characteristics, including substrate composition, aquatic vegetation, and in-stream cover, to support habitat assessment projects.

Secondary Functions

Assist with public outreach programs, including presenting at local schools or participating in angling clinics and community science events.
Contribute to the maintenance and organization of field stations, laboratories, and equipment storage facilities.
Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis for specific management inquiries.
Participate in internal training sessions and workshops to stay current on new sampling techniques, safety procedures, and species identification.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in identifying regional freshwater or saltwater fish species.
Experience operating and trailering small motorboats and non-motorized watercraft.
Demonstrated ability to use and deploy various fish sampling gear (e.g., nets, traps, electrofishing units).
Knowledge of biological data collection techniques, including measuring, weighing, and taking tissue/scale samples.
Competency in using handheld GPS units for navigation and data collection.
Experience with data entry and management using software like Microsoft Excel or Access.
Basic mechanical aptitude for routine maintenance and repair of field equipment, boats, and trailers.
Understanding of fish tagging methods (PIT, floy, anchor tags).
Familiarity with water quality sampling instruments and procedures.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).

Soft Skills

Strong attention to detail and commitment to collecting high-quality, accurate data.
Excellent teamwork and interpersonal communication skills.
High level of physical fitness and the ability to lift heavy objects (e.g., 50 lbs) and work long hours in the field.
Resilience and a positive attitude while working in adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, wind).
Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment and logistical challenges in the field.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision when required.
A robust work ethic and a high degree of self-motivation.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by relevant coursework or experience.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Fisheries Science
Marine Biology
Aquatic Ecology
Wildlife Management
Environmental Science
Natural Resource Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-4 years of relevant field experience.

Preferred:

Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrable hands-on experience in fisheries fieldwork, boat operation, species identification, and working as part of a research crew.