The Fish in Schools (FinS) program provides Saskatchewan students with a firsthand look at fish and aquatic habitats in their very own classroom. The program involves raising trout from eggs to fry before releasing them in a provincially stocked waterbody. In January/February, eyed trout eggs are placed into special classroom incubators. Over the following 3 to 4 months, students care for their fish by monitoring and maintaining the conditions required for their trout to thrive. In May/June, the trout are ready to be released by the students.
How does my classroom get involved?
FinS is a great opportunity for schools to get involved with their local SWF branch, and for SWF branches to give back at a local level. Enrollment of a school in a FinS program should be endorsed by a local SWF branch, who will act as a liaison between the school and the provincial FinS coordinator at SWF Central Office. Branches are responsible for helping with equipment setup and maintenance, delivering eggs to the school, and assisting with the release of the fish.
Where do we get the equipment?
While the school is responsible for providing their fish with a tank, the SWF provides any additional equipment on top of the FinS Manual, which outlines operating instructions. The cost of initial set up is an estimated $1800 plus tax, which the school or SWF branch are responsible to cover.
Ready to take the plunge?
Contact Courtney Devins, Director of Education, or Courtney Piercy, Director of Fisheries at fins@swf.sk.ca
and let’s get hatching!
Returning Schools
Registration for returning schools is now open for the 2027 Fish in Schools (FinS) program, which runs annually from January to June. Before completing the registration form, schools must confirm that funding is secured for the upcoming program year. Please contact your local Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation branch or sponsoring organization to verify funding, as sponsorship must be confirmed each year. Returning schools: complete the registration form here: https://form.typeform.com/to/z0qriUbD.
New Schools
A limited number of spaces are available for new schools interested in joining the 2027 Fish in Schools (FinS) program. The estimated cost for the initial aquarium setup is $1,800 plus tax and must be covered by the school, a local Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation branch, or another sponsoring organization. Please ensure funding is secured before submitting the registration form. Completing the form does not guarantee a place in the program; schools will be contacted once availability and funding have been confirmed. New schools: complete the registration form here: https://form.typeform.com/to/Z3n4csvu