Did you know that there are less than 3,000 establishments that focus on fishing, hunting, and trapping? And the numbers decrease when talking about how many professional hunters there are! Only a number of people are known to make a living as a professional hunter, which is surprising when considering how you can make this hobby into a marketable profession.
If you’re planning to journey into hunting as a career, where can you start? Obviously, you’ll need to know the prerequisites and skills required before doing so, which is why I did the research! So read on to learn how to become a professional hunter now.
How to Become a Professional Hunter
Becoming a professional hunter isn’t just about putting on waxed gilet and investing in the most expensive equipment! There’s more to hunting than that, so follow these tips to begin paving your career.
1. What Kind of Hunting Do You Want?
While most hunters are the same, there are different ways you can make money of it. Consider what you want to hunt based on where you’re from, the season you’ll work in, and personal preference. Do you want to hunt big or small game, water creatures, or birds? What weapons will you specialize in: Bows, rifles, shotguns, or what?
Many professional hunters with good pay are those who promote specific brands of hunting equipment. They can be hunting writers or videographers who document their experiences for budding hunters to watch and get inspired from. Some offer pro-hunting guides or even host television hunting shows! Others would sell their game meat or work with Wildlife Services for animal control.
As you can see, the career options as a professional hunter are vast, so consider what you want to do wisely.
2. Go Through the Application Process
If you want to apply as a professional hunter, there are organizations which hold annual screenings to fulfill particular positions. Whatever the position is, they will have various requirements but one similarity: Hunting experience!
Some organizations require hunter-videographers with years of experiences and a video resume. Blogs or media networks will want well-spoken, well-written, as well as highly knowledgeable hunters. It’s best to keep your eyes open locally and online for job openings to inquire about the application process and what you need for it.
If you’re just beginning, be willing to accept lower positions at first which can help you build knowledge and climb the ladder to a more successful professional hunter. For those who just begun hunting and need more knowledge and experience, the next step is for you!
3. The Education, Certification, and Membership
It isn’t an absolute essential, but having a college degree related to animal sciences or wildlife management is a huge plus because you have the resources and knowledge which sets you apart from the rest of the applicants. If not, you’re able to work your knowledge up with certifications and hunter education courses, which many states offer.
These types of certifications and courses help have you become eligible for permits and teach you all about hunting in your local area. All these will be helpful not only when applying for a professional hunter position, but when on the job itself!
4. Continue to Enhance Your Skills
Before, during, and even after getting a hunting job, you need to continue enhancing your skills and learning. Hunting isn’t just one course, but there is so much to learn and upgrade within yourself and your equipment. Continue to hone your skills with articles, guides, courses, and regular training. It’s best to practice your shooting and always stay updated with your local hunting laws.
5. Invest In the Proper Equipment
Of course, you wouldn’t be alb to hunt well if you don’t have the proper equipment! Make sure that you have the quality weaponry, apparel, as well as other items you may need based on the way you hunt (such as cameras, attractants, ground blinds or tree stands, and the like). Just like learning, continue to upgrade your equipment as needed.
Learn more about being a professional hunter and what else you can do to become one with this informative video:
Wrapping It Up
Professional hunting is actually quite a prosperous career if you work hard and tune up your skills. If you have the skill and passion, it’s time to get into the profession while it’s still a rarity, as there’s more of a chance to hone your talent without much of the competition! Just make sure you begin right and continue to learn even once you believe you mastered the career.
Hopefully, this article on how to become a professional hunter helped you out. So don’t wait any longer and follow these tips today!
If you want to share your tips and experiences on how to become a professional hunter, then comment below. Your thoughts are much appreciated.