ENV 3000 - Backpack Electrofishing
Course Description
Electrofishing is a commonly used fish collection method in streams, rivers, and lakes. Although not legislated in most provinces in Canada (except for BC and ON), electrofishing training provides employers with evidence of due diligence and provides trainees with adequate knowledge of the risks and safety features of these machines.
To participate in Field Training, students must first complete online test 1 and test 2. See “Details” below for more information.
2025 Backpack Electrofishing Training Field Schedule
| Date | Time | Location |
| May 29 | 9:30 am - 1:30 pm | Fredericton, NB |
| June 19 | 9:30 am - 1:30 pm | Fredericton, NB |
| July 24 | 9:30 am - 1:30 pm | Fredericton, NB |
| August 14 | 9:30 am - 1:30 pm | Fredericton, NB |
This course is considered a ‘blended’ course – course materials are delivered via an online course and then all participants must complete a field practicum (half day). The online materials are delivered using an online learning management system called Desire2Learn. Participants must complete the online component (pass is 80% on final quizzes), a minimum of 48 hours before attending their designated field practicum.
The online course and backpack field practicum are available in both English and French.
Please register well in advance of field training to ensure timely and sufficient access to the online materials before the field practicum. Electrofishing certificate recipients should re-certify (through refresher course) within every 5 years to refresh their skills and update their certificate.
All participants must have first aid and CPR training to receive their electrofishing certificate, which can be completed after the field session.
Field Training
Participants must complete online tests 1 and 2 before attending the field training. Field training sessions are normally scheduled for 4 hours running from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm. Please bring water and a bagged lunch or snacks. The field training session begins with a presentation of the equipment and a safety review (located at the Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre, 1350 Regent Street, Fredericton, Room 222) before heading out for the in-water portion of the training at Corbett Brook (parking lot across the road of 440 Wilsey Road, Fredericton).
Please bring the following to the in-water portion on the field training:
• Non-breathable chest waders
• If available, a lifejacket or personal flotation device
• If available, polarized sunglasses and a brimmed hat
• Water
You may also want sunscreen and/or bug spray depending on the conditions.
Learner Outcomes
• What is electrofishing?
• Why electrofish?
• Electrical and electrofishing theory
• Impacts of electrofishing
• Electrofishing safety guidelines
• Field procedures and techniques
• Recommended standard operating procedures
The Canadian Rivers Institute is using the services of the University of New Brunswick’s College of Extended Learning to increase the quality and efficiency of program registration and delivery of this CRI Training and Professional Development program's signature course. For enquiries, please email unbcricourses@unb.ca.
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Backpack Electrofishing Certificate : Required