Passion and Profession – 10 Ideal Hunter Career Paths
Martin Banks 08.09.23
Hunting builds many important skills that can translate to various careers. It teaches you to be self-sufficient, resourceful, attentive, and patient. You learn to work alone or as part of a cohesive unit. It builds character unlike any other outdoor activity. If you’re truly passionate about hunting, these 10 ideal hunter career paths could be in your future.
1. First Responder
The best hunter career paths are any first responder position – police, firefighter, or emergency medical services. These jobs require you to stay calm in high-pressure situations, think on your feet, and endure some discomfort for the sake of the mission. Mental and physical toughness are the most crucial intangibles for first responders, and hunters have plenty of both. The most fitting first responder position would be a police officer because of one big factor – gun proficiency. You’re already capable of handling a rifle from your hunting experience, so you should have no issue passing the firearm training program. Law enforcement could certainly use the help of more capable shooters.
2. Hunting Guide
If you want a career directly involved in hunting, then your best option is to become a guide. Amateur hunters pay professional guides by the hour to accompany them on trips and offer advice, which is right up your alley. You’ll also have to ensure everyone follows local hunting rules and safety procedures.
3. Hunting Outfitter
Becoming an outfitter is another career option in the hunting world. This position helps people prepare for their hunting trips in various ways. You’ll offer equipment recommendations, arrange convenient transportation methods and ensure everyone can legally hunt. Once all the preparations are complete, the hunting guide takes over from there.
4. Gunsmith
If you’ve been hunting for a long time, you probably know how to clean and repair guns. These are the main responsibilities of a gunsmith. Hunters and other firearm enthusiasts pay gunsmiths to troubleshoot, repair and modify their weapons — within the confines of the law. Some licensed gunsmiths also offer firearm training courses.
5. Wildlife Biologist
Some hunters are passionate about firearms, while others are invested in nature. You could become a wildlife biologist if you fall into the second category. These scientists spend their time observing how animals interact with their environments. They also research the correlation between human and animal activity in different ecosystems.
6. Wildlife Conservationist
Wildlife conservation is another option for a nature-oriented career. This position focuses specifically on humanity’s interactions with the environment. Conservationists are often involved in sustainability projects that save wildlife from displacement or extinction. You might not become the next Steve Irwin, but you could greatly impact your local community.
7. Trucker
Trucking is a great career path for hunters for several reasons. It’s hard work, but it pays well and gives you travel opportunities on a flexible schedule year-round. This arrangement is ideal for hunters because you can set aside enough time for trips and find new hunting destinations while on the road.
Trucking also provides plenty of solitude, which hunters can appreciate. And right now might be the best time to join the industry. The trucking sector is in serious need of new workers, in fact, it may be short 160,000 drivers by 2030 unless action is taken. You would be in high demand.
8. Landscaping Professional
Hunters are no strangers to working outdoors. The landscaping industry is always welcoming new lawn care specialists and equipment operators. This career path is one of the simplest ways to spend your days outside while doing a valuable service for the community. You won’t need any experience to find employment with a local landscaping company.
9. Teacher
Experienced hunters have many valuable lessons to teach the younger generations. What better way to pass on wisdom than in a formal classroom environment? The United States faces a nationwide teacher shortage, so a local school could certainly use your help. The kids would love to learn from an active and outdoor-oriented educator.
10. Content Creator
Many hunters enjoy photographing and recording their hunting trips. Avid photographers or videographers can make a career out of creating hunting content. Social media has allowed hunters from all walks of life to become popular public figures in the online outdoor community. Who knows? You could become the next Cameron Hanes or Steven Rinella.
Hunter Career Paths – Discover Your Next Passion
Hunting will always be your first love, but you might discover your next passion through one of these hunter career paths. Explore job opportunities in your area and see what’s out there. As every experienced hunter knows, sometimes you have to take a leap of faith to find what you’re looking for.
