Careers in the Inland Fisheries Division
Fisheries Biologists and Technicians
Fisheries biologists and technicians support the following roles within the Inland Fisheries Division.
Fisheries Management
Those in fisheries management roles survey and monitor freshwater fisheries resources in Texas public lakes and rivers. They analyze and interpret sampling data and assemble adaptive plans that enhance fish populations and related sportfishing opportunities for Texas anglers and visitors. Daily activities involve engagement in a variety of topics including fish habitat restoration, water management, angler harvest regulations, public relations, public policy, angler access, and fish stocking. Fisheries managers collaborate with a broad network of stakeholders, including fishing organizations, volunteer groups, lake and river authorities, and local communities, seeking to build and maintain partnerships and coalitions to help sustain world-class sportfishing statewide.
Fisheries Research
Those in fisheries research roles study fisheries resources to support data-driven and science-based fisheries management and conservation decisions. Areas of fisheries research include ecology, physiology, behavior, genetics, aquaculture, economics, pathology, population dynamics, and computer-based modeling. Applied fisheries research is conducted by field-based biologists located throughout the state, but the division's flagship facility for freshwater fisheries research is the Heart of the Hills Fisheries Science Center in Mountain Home, which celebrated its centennial in 2025. From developing and refining techniques for fish sampling, identification, tracking, age and growth, and population estimates to refining and validating procedures and strategies for fish hatchery production, fish stockings, water management, and fish habitat enhancements, Heart of the Hills continues to be on the leading edge of fisheries science in Texas and nationally.
Fisheries Conservation
Through partnerships with local communities, private landowners, non-governmental organizations, and other state and federal agencies, those in fisheries conservation roles seek to restore and preserve Texas native fishes, their habitats, and other aquatic resources. Activities involve complex and challenging issues that require advanced communication and problem-solving skills, as well as broad-based training in a variety of scientific disciplines. Areas of expertise include fish biology, aquatic ecology, hydrology, watershed management, restoration science, instream flow science, water quality, and management of aquatic nuisance species.
Fisheries Production and Stocking
Texas freshwater fish hatcheries produce, raise, and stock Florida largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel and blue catfish, striped and hybrid striped bass, sunfishes, and forage fish. They also stock rainbow trout during the winter. The Inland Fisheries Division's hatcheries do extensive research focused on improving the efficiency of hatchery production and operation, as well as the overall quality of the fish being stocked.
Education for Fisheries Biologist
- Bachelor's degree required
- Master's degree preferred
Relevant Degrees and Programs
- Fisheries Science
- Environmental Science
- Aquatic Biology
- Zoology
- Ecology
- Marine Science
Useful Supplemental Coursework
- Writing and public speaking
- Social studies
- Chemistry and statistics
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Marketing and public relations
- Human dimensions
Experience
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at a hatchery or a TPWD outreach event is one way to gain experience in fisheries work. Volunteers assist hatchery and field crews with maintenance, fish culture, fish populations, angler surveys, and habitat assessments. Special volunteer opportunities to donate time and talents at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center include assisting with daily fishing activities, facility tours, educational programs, special events, exhibit development, and facility maintenance. For more information, visit Volunteer website.
Internship Opportunities
TPWD's Summer Student Internship Program is for students enrolled in accredited colleges or universities who meet minimum requirements. Inland Fisheries Division interns work in freshwater fish hatcheries, field stations, or at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens. For more information, visit the Internship Program section of our website.