How to Become a Hunting Guide or Outfitter
If you like to hunt then this is the perfect opportunity to turn your hobby and interest into your career. It is not a fast job which you will get without experience. The job requires risks and one should be properly equipped with the right knowledge and techniques to get a license. It is a requirement from the authorities. It can be opted for as a full time or part time career. Follow these tips and take up this career that you enjoy.
Instructions
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1
The requirement for becoming hunting guide are more stringent then a regular travel guide. First you need to consult the wildlife resources state division. You need to have a license and become certified before starting the career. In some areas you need to take some courses and pass some tests to get a license. These courses inform you about safety requirements and legal issues related to the field. Also check if you need separate permission for out of state hunting.
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2
After you are aware of all the requirements, go on a few guided trips. Ask for recommendations from the local sporting stores and wildlife departments. Do some market research to find out what other guides are charging. Collect information about potential clients and their preferences. You could also contact outfitter companies and get a job with them if you do not want to start as private.
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3
If you want to be a successful guide, then you need to know all about the outdoors. Get to know about all the hunts that people are interested in and what are the best seasons for them. Also try to identify any untapped segment of the market and how they can be served best. You do not only need to target people interested in seasonal hunting, go for photographers who like to capture wildlife and share your knowledge around with organizations interested.
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4
Nowadays many vacation destinations have hunting clubs and game ranches. You could use your knowledge and skills to get a job at one of these. It will be a source of extra income for you. Do not forget that being a hunter or outfitter requires you to know all the survival techniques that may come in handy in case of emergencies. You should be proficient in those and demonstrate to your clients that you have the knowledge and experience so that they trust you.
