How to become a fish and game warden

Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What fish and game wardens do

• Participate in search-and-rescue operations.
• Compile and present evidence for court actions.
• Protect and preserve native wildlife, plants, or ecosystems.
• Patrol assigned areas by car, boat, airplane, horse, or on foot to enforce game, fish, or boating laws or to manage wildlife programs, lakes, or land.
• Investigate hunting accidents or reports of fish or game law violations.
• Provide assistance to other local law enforcement agencies as required.

Skills that matter most

• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Writing
• Monitoring
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is fish and game warden a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 45% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• California $100,090
• Iowa $98,260
• Indiana $93,990
• Nevada $91,750
• Maryland $89,300

Fish and Game Wardens salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.