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Hunting Guide Outfitter

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources cluster Natural Resource Systems pathway.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Most people become hunting guide fitters because they themselves have spent years doing these sports. Becoming an outfitter allows them to live in the wilderness and continue hunting and fishing as a lifestyle.

The industry is closely regulated. Each outfitter must be licensed by the state, and each is given a specific territory in which they may guide.

Many guide outfitters begin as assistant guides. When they've saved enough money to buy out an existing business, they purchase a territory and become an outfitter.

"You must check out the state you want to guide in. In most states, you will have to buy out an outfitter that is going to retire. Costly, it is," says Gordon Fout, guide outfitter. How much can "costly" be? According to Dale Drown, the general manager of an outfitters' association, guiding territory prices can range from $100,000 to $1 million.

Research is important before enrolling in an educational program. Look for a school that teaches ethics and provides practical experience with hunting laws.

"Look for a well-rounded curriculum, one that will help you become an all-round individual," says guide Erv Malnarich. "It should teach you the game laws and regulations of the official agencies. Make sure it includes learning how to skin, score, [and] work with horses and mules. You should learn how to shoe and load horses. Learning first aid and CPR is also important."