For centuries, Cambodian traditional rice-field fisheries (RFFs) have sustained rural livelihoods and food security. However, the transition to more intensive rice-fish farming (RFs) and pond aquaculture systems still needs to grow despite global trends toward expansion and intensification. This study investigates the socioeconomic and structural barriers hindering this transition, focusing on farmer resistance to adopting these more productive systems. Conducted in the rice-producing provinces of Battambang, Kampong Thom, and Takeo, the research examines four production models: RFFs, community fisheries, RFs, and pond aquaculture. Our findings indicate that RFs present a viable intermediate step for small-scale farmers with limited access to capital, infrastructure, and technology to transition to pond aquaculture, offering economic advantages with lower financial risks than pond aquaculture. However, significant obstacles persist, including limited technical knowledge, inadequate feed, seed, and equipment supply, and restricted access to capital and infrastructure (Figure 1a). Policy recommendations emphasize the importance of educational outreach through awareness campaigns and technical training to ensure farmers’ confidence in adopting RFs. Additionally, targeted financial support, such as low-interest loans and subsidies for essential inputs, would reduce economic burdens (Figure 1b). Species diversification is also identified as an effective risk management strategy, particularly beneficial for regions with variable climates, such as Africa, as it enhances resilience and stability in farming operations. The study outlines a pathway for sustainable and resilient aquaculture systems in Cambodia and other regions with similar socioeconomic and environmental contexts by addressing these barriers.