Have you ever wondered “Can hunting be a job”?

Everyone dreams of doing what they love for a living. If you could get paid to be a hunter would you do it? Of course! But it is a lot harder than it may sound. Many professionals in the industry have spent years working very hard for little or no pay. So if you are in it for the money and not because you just deeply enjoy the outdoors and the community around it, you are looking in the wrong place.

A professional hunter is a person who hunts and/or manages game by profession. Some professional hunters work in the private sector or for government agencies and manage species that are considered overabundant, others are self-employed and make a living by selling hides and meat, while others guide clients on big-game hunts.

Professional hunting can be an exciting career path, but it's not for the faint of heart. Expect to spend weeks in the wild, stalk your prey and work in extreme conditions. You may also have to guide your clients during the hunt and ensure their safety, which further adds to the challenge. Complying with the law is just as important – you can't just buy a rifle or shotgun and go hunting.

The first step to starting a career in this field is to learn about the different types of hunting, weapons and other related topics. Next, you must complete a hunter education course, apply for licensure and plan out your career path.

All states require professional hunters to obtain licensure. The licensing process involves specific education, such as the completion of a hunter safety course. Holding a valid license is not enough to become a professional hunter. You also need to practice your skills, invest in the proper equipment, map out possible hunting locations and choose a career path.

But how will you make money? Some professional hunters work with Wildlife Services or sell game meat, hides or furs. Others organize hunting trips and may promote specific brands of hunting gear to supplement their income. You may also work or volunteer as a hunting instructor.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for fish and game wardens was $56,410 in 2017. Local wardens averaged $51,260 per year, while those who worked for a state earned an average of $59,860. Of states that reported specific pay information for fish and game wardens, Texas was the highest-paying, with an average salary of $67,020. New York ranked second in the nation, with an average of $67,230 per year.

The expected growth rate in the next 10 years is a small 5%.

So, when you ask “can hunting be a job” the straight off answer may be no; however, that should not stop you from joining the outdoor industry. So instead of “can hunting be a job” ask “what careers best suit me in the outdoor industry”.