At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and enhance the stunning Wiltshire Avon river and lakes for a passionate fishing community.
- Company: Join the Services Dry Fly Fishing Association, dedicated to preserving England's cherished chalkstreams.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, vehicle allowance, and ongoing training in a beautiful environment.
- Other info: Unique opportunity with supportive members and excellent career growth in a breathtaking setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference to a historic river while enjoying autonomy and responsibility outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in river management and a passion for environmental conservation are essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 € per year.
The Services Dry Fly Fishing Association (SDFFA) is searching for an exceptional, full time River Keeper to care for 6.5 miles of the historic and environmentally designated Wiltshire Avon, alongside four lakes and an on-site rearing unit. The role has only become available as the current River Keeper is retiring after 24 fantastic years, emphasizing the rarity of such a position. This is a genuinely unique opportunity to take custodianship of one of England's most revered chalkstreams, a role for someone who lives and breathes the river, takes pride in quiet excellence, and wants to leave a fishery better than they found it.
Hours: 39 hours per week (with occasional weekends as and when necessary with time off in lieu)
The Role
Reporting to the Management Committee, you will deliver consistently high-quality fly fishing for a knowledgeable 150-rod membership. Working largely unsupervised, you will shape the river day-to-day and season-to-season through:
- River, lake and habitat management & enhancement
- Stocking implementation and encouragement of wild fish populations
- Weed cutting, bank and fringe maintenance
- Water quality monitoring and reporting
- River woodland management and obstruction clearance
- Predator control and general bailiff duties
- Liaison with riparian owners, agencies and interested parties
- Providing confident, authoritative advice to members
This is a hands-on, Lone-Working, outdoor role in all weather, with regular weekend working. It will suit a motivated self-starter who enjoys responsibility, autonomy and physical work in a truly stunning environment.
About You
Practical, highly competent, personable and respected for your judgement. You bring both technical skill and genuine passion for riverine habitats. It would suit someone who presents themselves well, is full of energy, enthusiasm and dynamism.
Essential / Strongly Preferred:
- Fisheries, environmental or relevant land-based qualification
- Proven experience in river and fishery management
- Strong working knowledge of EA, NE and relevant legislation
- Full UK driving licence
- Physically fit and safety-conscious (essential)
- Comfortable producing and managing risk assessments (including work parties)
- Able to fulfil PUWER and LOLER inspection and recording requirements
- Excellent communicator who is polite, well-presented and approachable
Certifications (ideally most of the following):
- City & Guilds / NPTC chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting & felling (small to large trees)
- Powered pole pruner, windblown trees and winch operations
- Forestry clearing saw and wood chipper certification
- Land-based machinery (mowers, brushcutters, trimmers)
- Work-related first aid certificate (or willingness to obtain)
What is on Offer
- Salary circa £35,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications)
- Qualifying pension scheme
- Vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Telecoms & data package
- Protective clothing and PPE
- Ongoing training and refreshers as required
- A genuinely beautiful working environment, and a supportive, appreciative membership
If you are someone who takes pride in doing things properly, and who wants a long-term role making a real difference to a remarkable river, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: Friday 19th June 2026
Interviews: expected, week commencing 29th June
Start: September 2026
River Keeper in Maidstone employer: Larstone Recruitment
The Services Dry Fly Fishing Association (SDFFA) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work as a River Keeper in the stunning environment of the Wiltshire Avon. With a strong focus on employee growth through ongoing training and a supportive membership, SDFFA fosters a culture of respect and appreciation for those who take pride in their work. Enjoy a competitive salary, a qualifying pension scheme, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on one of England's most revered chalkstreams.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land River Keeper in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the river and its community! Spend some time on-site, chat with current members, and understand their needs. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your approach when you get the chance to meet the Management Committee.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have any relevant experience or certifications, bring them up in conversation. Whether it's your knowledge of fishery management or your hands-on skills, make sure they know you're the right fit for this unique role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for the interview; reach out to the SDFFA team with questions or insights about the river. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and commitment to making a positive impact from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the modern side of river management while still being deeply connected to nature.
We think you need these skills to ace River Keeper in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the River:When writing your application, let your love for riverine habitats shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your connection to rivers and fishing. We want to see that you truly live and breathe this role!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail any previous work in river and fishery management. We’re looking for someone with proven experience, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills and qualifications that align with the job description.
Be Personable and Approachable:Since this role involves liaising with members and other stakeholders, it’s important to convey your communication skills in your application. Use a friendly tone and demonstrate how you can connect with others while maintaining professionalism.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this unique opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to make a real difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Larstone Recruitment
✨Know Your River
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the Wiltshire Avon and its unique ecosystem. Familiarise yourself with its history, current challenges, and conservation efforts. This will not only show your passion but also demonstrate your commitment to preserving this beautiful environment.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your practical experience in river and fishery management. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects or roles where you successfully managed habitats, monitored water quality, or liaised with stakeholders. Highlighting your technical skills will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Communicate Confidently
As a River Keeper, you'll need to provide advice and communicate effectively with members and agencies. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider role-playing common scenarios you might face in the role to boost your communication skills.
✨Emphasise Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for riverine habitats shine through during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that reflect your love for the outdoors and commitment to environmental stewardship. A genuine passion can make a lasting impression on the interviewers.
