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Introduction
In this unit you will not only learn about the science behind fishing techniques and how these interact with the biology and behaviour of a species, but also how recreational fisheries are sustainably managed and how you can be a responsible fisher. Important and interesting questions/skills for fishers include: identifying a species, determining what they eat and understanding how their biology, sensory abilities, preferred habitats and behavior influence fishing techniques. After completion of this unit you may change the way you fish, with both an improved fishing experience and a greater understanding of how to fish safely and responsibly for the future.
Summary
| Unit name | Science of Fishing 1 |
| Unit code | KSM002 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies |
| Discipline | Fisheries and Aquaculture |
| Coordinator | Doctor Barrett Wolfe |
| Available as an elective? | No |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Foundation or Enabling |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 |
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- Key:
On-campus- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.
Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 22/2/2026 | 16/3/2026 | 19/4/2026 | 13/6/2026 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Identify a range of fish species commonly caught in Australian recreational fisheries
- Describe the characteristics (morphology, physiology and internal anatomy) of a fish species that influence their habitat preferences and behaviour within the marine environment
- Describe the fishing gear and methods used for catching fish in a recreational fishery
- Outline the strategies for managing a recreational fishery contributing to sustainability
- Produce a plan for a safe, responsible and successful recreational fishing trip in Australia
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 050799 | $592.00 | $592.00 | not applicable | $3,382.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Unit delivered fully online. There are no tutorial requirements for this unit. |
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| Assessment | Module 2 Quiz (8%)|Module 3 Quiz (8%)|Module 4 Quiz (8%)|Module 5 Quiz (8%)|Module 1 quiz (8%)|Fishing trip plan (30%)|Fun fact sheet of a key recreational fish species (30%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.