Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
- Search for and download the free “Skipper Science App” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Create a new account by walking through guided steps in the app.
- By registering for an account and agreeing to our data access policy, you are automatically enrolled in the Skipper Science General Observation Program and can start recording observations right away.
- To join a specific program, select the program you are interested in under the “Targeted Research Programs” tab and click “Request to Join.” The program admin will then review your request, which could take some time. Reach out if you run into trouble or would like to learn more about any of our programs or the app.
An observation is an opportunity for you to share what you see and hear on the water. You can include text, audio, photos, and videos, and different programs, from the General Observation Program to our targeted research programs, have different forms that may prompt different kinds of data collection. Observations are made by filling out a form that is specific to each program, and is available in the app when you are added to a Program. The General Observation Form is available to everyone who downloads the app, automatically, and is intentionally broad so that can be used to submit a wide range of observations!
Not necessarily! If you are interested in starting a program in your area, please contact us.
Yes! We regularly offer honorarium for participating in both the General Observation program and our Targeted Research programs. Awards are project-dependent, but are regularly $500 and above. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for notifications about raffles and opportunities to earn cash by participating in a project.
Privacy and security are integral to Skipper Science and Indigenous Sentinels Network software. Read our data access policy here. Individual research programs may have additional policies and protocols.
Each program has a unique program manager, if you’d like to see that data, get in touch and we can arrange it.
The cost to create a Skipper Science targeted research program as a partner researcher, manager, or fishermen is dependent on a number of factors. Please get in touch to start a conversation!
Downloading the app and gathering data is a great way to support Skipper Science. We also encourage you to do outreach in your community with skippers you know who might be interested in signing up.
Get in touch to learn how to join the Partnership as an organization or find other ways to support our work.
A protocol gives you instructions or guidance for collecting observations for a particular program.
It might explain what to look for, what information to record, or how observations should be collected. It can also include reference materials or supporting documents.
If your program has a protocol, you may be asked to review it before collecting observations. You can return to the protocol in the app whenever you need it.
The easiest way to get help is through the built-in support chat in the Skipper Science app.
You can use the chat to ask questions or get help when you're having trouble with the app.
For questions about a specific research program, you can also contact your Program Administrator.
An observation is an opportunity for you to share what you see and hear on the water. You can include text, audio, photos, and videos, and different programs, from the General Observation Program to our targeted research programs, have different forms that may prompt different kinds of data collection. Observations are made by filling out a form that is specific to each program, and is available in the app when you are added to a Program. The General Observation Form is available to everyone who downloads the app, automatically, and is intentionally broad so that can be used to submit a wide range of observations!
Yes! All observations in the Skipper Science app can be made offline and then uploaded once you’re back online. Learn more about our tech here.
Privacy and security are integral to Skipper Science and Indigenous Sentinels Network software. Read our data access policy here. Individual research programs may have additional policies and protocols.
Each program has a unique program manager, if you’d like to see that data, get in touch and we can arrange it.
If you've forgotten your Skipper Science password:
- Open the Skipper Science app.
- On the login screen, select Forgot Password.
- Enter the email address associated with your account.
- Check your email for a password reset message.
- Open the link in the email and follow the instructions to create a new password.
- Return to Skipper Science and log in with your new password.
Don't see the email? Check your spam or junk folder. If you still can't reset your password, contact us or use the support chat for help.
If you're new to Skipper Science, download the current app and select Sign Up to create an account.
Used the old Skipper Science app? A new version of the app was released in 2025. If you only had an account in the old app, you'll need to create a new profile, username, and password in the current app.
Already have an account in the current app? Select Log In and enter your username and password.
- Once you've joined a program, you'll see the observation forms available to you.
- Choose a form and record what you're seeing. The questions depend on the program and may ask about things like location, species, environmental conditions, fishing activity, photos, or other details.
- Complete the required questions and submit your observation when you're ready.
- No internet? No problem. You can save your observation offline and sync it when you're connected again.
A protocol gives you instructions or guidance for collecting observations for a particular program.
It might explain what to look for, what information to record, or how observations should be collected. It can also include reference materials or supporting documents.
If your program has a protocol, you may be asked to review it before collecting observations. You can return to the protocol in the app whenever you need it.
The easiest way to get help is through the built-in support chat in the Skipper Science app.
You can use the chat to ask questions or get help when you're having trouble with the app.
For questions about a specific research program, you can also contact your Program Administrator.
Contact Us
Have any questions about the app, partnership, or how to get involved? Want to share some stories? Please contact us! We have a dedicated team waiting to help.
