Fisheries Officer
SOC 33-3031.00 · ESCO 3359 · OSCA 311135
Role snapshot
Overview
Patrols waterways and coastal areas, including lakes, rivers, and oceans, to enforce fishing regulations, inspect catches, and ensure compliance with conservation laws. Conducts investigations into illegal fishing activity, gathers evidence, and participates in legal proceedings. Educates the public, commercial fishers, and recreational anglers about sustainable fishing practices, aquatic resource management, and safety regulations to protect marine and freshwater ecosystems.
Protects aquatic ecosystems and fish populations for future generations by enforcing regulations, preventing illegal activities, and promoting sustainable resource use. Ensures fair play among fishers and contributes to public safety on the water.
On the job
- Patrol waterways by boat, vehicle, or on foot to monitor fishing activities and respond to incidents.
- Inspect fishing licenses, gear, and catches to ensure compliance with size, bag, and season limits.
- Investigate violations, collect evidence, issue citations, and make arrests when necessary.
- Educate the public on fishing regulations, conservation efforts, and water safety.
- Participate in search and rescue operations and report environmental incidents or pollution.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
A certificate or associate's degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, natural resource management, or a related field is often required. Some positions may prefer a bachelor's degree.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Fisheries Officer
Agriculture & Food
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RCI
Individuals who are practical and enjoy working outdoors to enforce rules and investigate issues, often involving scientific principles, will find this role fulfilling.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Highly organized and disciplined in enforcing regulations, documenting activities, and adhering to legal procedures.
Agreeable
Able to interact calmly and constructively with diverse individuals, including those in confrontational situations, while maintaining authority.
Emotionally Stable
Maintains composure and effectiveness under pressure, during investigations, and in potentially dangerous or unpredictable situations.
Open-minded
Willing to learn new regulations, technologies, and approaches to conservation and enforcement, adapting to evolving environmental challenges.
Extraverted
Comfortable engaging with the public, commercial fishers, and stakeholders to educate, enforce, and build cooperative relationships.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about environmental protection, law enforcement, and aquatic ecosystems.
- Those who enjoy working independently outdoors and interacting with the public.
- People who are detail-oriented, resilient, possess strong communication skills, and thrive in structured enforcement roles.
Watch out for
- Can involve confrontational situations and working in challenging or unpredictable weather conditions.
- Requires extensive knowledge of complex and frequently updated regulations, necessitating continuous learning.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Fisheries Officer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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