NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: July 1, 2024
Media Contact: Craig.Shaul@labor.idaho.gov

In 2023, there were over 4,200 jobs in Idaho related to fishing, game hunting and supporting occupations. Cumulatively, the occupations have grown at a 6.6% rate since 2012, according to the Idaho Department of Labor.

“Based on the department’s occupational projections for 2022 through 2032, job growth for these occupations is projected to expand by 22.1% as one of the fastest growing occupations in Idaho,” Labor Economist Ryan Whitesides said.

Ian Malepeai, marketing director for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, said that while participating in wildlife recreation is a preferred lifestyle for many Idahoans, the remoteness and opportunities for adventure also attracts many businesses and industry professionals to the state.

To showcase this industry, Labor Economists Lisa Grigg and Ryan Whitesides will be presenting with Malepeai as a guest speaker, in a free webinar Tuesday, July 9, from 11 a.m. to noon MDT.

Both the north central and eastern regions have a large stamp in the fish and wildlife recreation industry. North central has many industries represented including wildlife conservation, fish hatcheries, small arms ammunition, archery, aluminum jet boat manufacturing and countless others. Northern Idaho even has boat building occupations represented and small plane manufacturing.

The eastern region shares a border with the wilderness areas of Wyoming and Montana, including Yellowstone National Park, and represents direct fishing and hunting workers, guides, scientists and technician occupations.

To learn more about this industry and Idaho’s economic involvement register for the webinar on Zoom.

All future webinars and registration event information can be found on the department’s calendar of events.

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This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY24 as part of a Workforce Information grant (48%) and state/nonfederal funds (52%) totaling $704,259.