Fish and Game Wardens
Fish and Game Wardens patrol assigned territories to enforce fishing and hunting regulations, investigate wildlife-related property damage, and collect biological data on animal populations. They work outdoors across forests, waterways, and rural areas, documenting violations and responding to incidents involving wildlife conflicts with crops or structures.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fish and game wardens and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves patrolling assigned areas on foot or by vehicle, checking fishing and hunting licenses, and documenting violations. Wardens respond to calls about wildlife damaging property or crops, gathering evidence and filing reports. They also collect field data on fish and game populations, conduct interviews with witnesses, and may testify in court regarding enforcement actions.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People who succeed in this role tend to be detail-oriented and methodical, enjoying outdoor work and structured procedures. If you prefer hands-on tasks with clear regulations and like gathering factual information about nature, this career aligns with practical, conventional work approaches.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $74,790 | $100,090 | $110,780 | 330 |
| Iowa | $77,980 | $98,260 | $98,260 | 120 |
| Indiana | $75,990 | $93,990 | $111,990 | 170 |
| Nevada | $84,090 | $91,750 | $95,260 | 50 |
| Maryland | $85,050 | $89,300 | $96,110 | 60 |
| Wisconsin | $72,130 | $89,110 | $89,110 | 150 |
| Michigan | $76,420 | $87,460 | $87,460 | 210 |
| Texas | $80,260 | $85,980 | $89,970 | 490 |
| New York | $73,130 | $80,060 | $90,960 | 390 |
| North Dakota | $67,740 | $79,520 | $88,660 | 30 |
| Georgia | $68,040 | $79,440 | $92,420 | 200 |
| Tennessee | $66,550 | $75,930 | $83,960 | 220 |
All 35 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fish and game wardens and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-3031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.