Fisheries Specialist Training 2025 – A Successful Start with the BASIS Module & MODULE 1

New year, new opportunities! The year 2025 not only marked the start of a new year but also the beginning of a new training cycle for future fisheries specialists.

A total of 26 new trainees kicked off their education with the one-week BASIS Module in January, before delving deeper into their interest in fish as both a living organism and a food source during the two-week MODULE 1.

The BASIS Module is designed to bring all participants, whether apprentices in the dual education system or career changers, up to a shared foundational level. The curriculum covered the fundamentals of aquaculture and fisheries, from an introduction to aquaculture and fish anatomy and physiology to basic water chemistry, helping trainees grasp the key parameters of aquaculture as a production system. The module also included practical skills training, such as net-making and microscopy.

In MODULE 1, the focus shifted to salmonid aquaculture, specifically the farming of trout, grayling, char, and huchen. Participants explored both the biology of these species and their water quality requirements, while also gaining hands-on experience in the entire rearing process—from broodstock management and fertilization to egg incubation, fry rearing, and market-sized fish production.

Challenging weeks – successfully completed!
Three weeks of intensive coursework with 26 trainees and 12 instructors, during the cold season with high viral exposure, presented a challenge for all involved. However, the hard work paid off: In the final examination, participants showcased their impressive knowledge in fish identification, water chemistry, fish anatomy and ecology, as well as practical aquaculture techniques.

What’s next?
For most trainees, the next modules in their modular fisheries specialist training will take place in June and July. The upcoming courses will focus on lake ecology and management, carp pond farming, and recirculating aquaculture systems.

Congratulations to all participants on their successful start to the program!