Did you know that aquaculture, which is the breeding, raising and harvesting of fish, shellfish and aquatic plants, is one of the fastest growing food production sectors in the world?
It has had a 5.8% annual growth rate over the past decade.
It also has a diverse range of employment opportunities.
Both factors mean that, if you are interested in this particular industry, a fisheries qualification could put you on the path to a long and varied career.
The good news is here at Hadlow College we offer both a Fisheries and Fisheries Management & Aquaculture qualification, delivered by our experienced team who have all worked in the industry.
It can help you take the first steps in a career in aquaculture, fisheries management or environmental management or in the wildlife sector.
So, let’s take a look at some of the possible careers a fisheries course could lead to:
#1: Fisheries Manager
A fisheries manager is dedicated to ensuring the fish population in a specific area of body of water remains healthy, and to take appropriate action if fish stocks ever are at risk.
The role may include conducting scientific assessments to monitor fish stocks, setting fishing quotas and regulations to prevent overfishing, and implementing conservation strategies to protect sensitive species and habitats.
A fisheries manager also needs to have extensive knowledge of the fish they are managing including where and when the fish reproduce, how their habitats should be maintained and if the fish are susceptible to certain diseases.
They can be working with the public, clubs, syndicates, government organisations and the private sector.
#2: Fisheries Officer
Fisheries officers maintain bodies of water and are responsible for enforcing regulations and policies related to the management, conservation, and sustainable use of aquatic resources.
A challenge fisheries officers often face comes in the form of ecological problems such as the destruction of habitats and pollution.
Fisheries officers may conduct surveys of the fish stocks, water quality and habitats to support sustainable recreational fishing and engage in community outreach and education to promote responsible fishing.
These are usually roles within government or local councils, and not just in the UK!
#3: Water Bailiff/Environment Agency Officer
A water bailiff is sometime known as a fisheries warder or an angling enforcement officer and is responsible for monitoring and enforcing regulations related to fishing and conservation in rivers, lakes, and other water bodies.
They carry warrants and have the same powers of arrest as police.
The law relating to fisheries differs throughout the UK, but all water bailiffs can check rod licenses and arrest people if they are acting illegally.
Occasionally a water bailiff might need to chase offenders, so a decent level of physical fitness always comes in handy!
#4: Biologist
A fisheries qualification can lead to a role as a biologist.
Biologists study living things like plants and animals, in the laboratory or in their natural environment, but usually have specialisms.
When it comes to a fisheries qualification, this could be studying plant or animal life in their environment to help with conservation, investing causes of disease in plants, animals and humans or finding ways to reduce pollution so plants and animals can thrive in their natural environment.
A biologist’s job ranges from conducting field research to writing scientific papers on their research.
#5: Hydrologist
A hydrologist is a scientific professional who studies the distribution, movement, and properties of water in various forms within the Earth's atmosphere, surface, and subsurface.
In particular they look at rainfall, rivers and waterways to research and develop sustainable ways to manage and protect water resources.
In essence, hydrologists play a pivotal role in assessing, preserving, and managing water-related systems to ensure its sustainable use and protection for both human and ecological needs.
#6: Water Quality Scientist
A water quality scientist will analyse and test water samples to see if they comply with regulatory standards.
Water quality scientists identify pollutants, contaminants, and potential sources of pollution, aiming to ensure the safety of water for human consumption, aquatic life, and the environment.
Water quality scientists often play a crucial role in developing and implementing strategies to manage and improve water quality.
Studying a Fisheries Qualification at Hadlow
We offer two fisheries courses here at Hadlow.
Our Fisheries qualification is ideal for anyone wanting to take the first steps into fisheries, aquatics and aquaculture industries.
If you have 4 GCSEs at Grade C-D/4-3 or equivalent, including GCSE English or maths A-D/9-3 or equivalent, then you are eligible to study this course.
The course takes a year to complete and you will gain a City & Guilds Advanced Technical Diploma in Land & Wildlife Management (Fisheries).
From there you can extend the course for an additional year which will give you an Advanced Technical Extended Diploma, after which there are options for an apprenticeship or a higher education qualification at Hadlow.
For anyone that has an FdSc, preferably in Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, we also offer a Fisheries Management (Aquaculture) Top Up.
This will give you a BSc (Top Up) Aquaculture & Fisheries Management Foundation Degree L6, from where you can progress onto a related MSc or PhD programme or pursue a career in the industry.
Both courses make use of the fantastic facilities at Hadlow College that include a fully stocked fisheries hatchery contains a variety of tropical and cold-water fish, over 50 aquarium tanks and Grove Farm, a 2 hectare mixed coarse fishing lake and growing on ponds, that operates as a commercial fishery and fish farm.
Visit our Fisheries Management course page or contact us to find out more and potentially begin an exciting career!