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Hunter/Trapper

Hunters and trappers find and catch or shoot animals for food, pelts (skins), fur, research or to remove pests.

Tasks & duties

Hunters and trappers may do some or all of the following:

hunt on foot, by helicopter or in a vehicle
track animals by checking the area for signs such as droppings or damage to vegetation
set the correct traps for each type of animal and lay poison
get the relevant approvals for using poison
notify relevant people in the area where traps and poison are set
mix bait to attract animals
inspect traps and bait stations and remove or dispose of animals
shoot animals (sometimes at night, which is known as spotlighting)
use maps of hunting areas to decide where to set traps
cut tracks for better access to traps and bait stations
skin animals
cut up carcasses
tag and release animals
Hunting guides may also:
entertain clients
transport clients to, and guide them around, hunting areas
find animals and advise clients about the quality of the trophy animal
prepare and take photographs of clients and their trophy

Specialisations

Professional Hunting Guide

Professional hunting guides take recreational hunters on hunting tours.

Fur Hunter

Fur hunters specialise in the recovery of animal fur to sell.

Skills & knowledge

Hunters and trappers need to have:

knowledge of the different types of traps and poisons used
skill in setting up traps and laying baits and poisons
good animal tracking skills to be able to recognise and follow signs that animals are in the area
knowledge of animal behaviour and where animal feeding places are
good shooting skills, particularly for hunting pests at night
knowledge of firearm care, safety and laws
animal skinning skills
knowledge of the outdoors, including the bush and mountain environment
awareness of environmental issues, ecology and safety rules

Entry requirements

There are no specific requirements to become a hunter and trapper, as most skills are learned on the job.

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary education requirements. However, year 12 Certificate of Education or Higher School Certificate equivalent is preferred.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job, and hunters and trappers can attend training courses on using chemicals and poisons.

Useful experience

Useful experience for hunters and trappers includes work in the bush and work involving livestock or farming. Experience in servicing machinery may also be useful.