NAICS 1142

Hunting & Trapping

Hunting and trapping industry overview: commercial game harvesting, wildlife management, and rural economy. Regulations, trends, and business insights.

Published by VantaInsights Research·Methodology·Data Sources· AI-drafted
Built on data from Census Bureau CBP Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal Reserve FRED SEC EDGAR

Industry at a Glance

Sector-wide aggregates across all businesses classified under NAICS 1142 (2017 classification frame). For specific sub-industries within this sector, see the individual reports below.

Employment
2,034
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Establishments
446
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Annual Payroll
$93.5M
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Avg Annual Wage
$45,962
Derived from US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017

Industry Overview

Hunting and trapping (NAICS 1142) encompasses commercial and subsistence hunting of wild animals and birds, as well as the trapping of furbearing animals for pelts and other products. This industry includes licensed hunters and trappers who operate independently or as part of organized hunting expeditions, guide services, and the harvest of game species for commercial sale. The industry plays a significant role in wildlife management, conservation funding through licensing and permit sales, and rural economic activity, while operating under strict regulatory frameworks established by state fish and wildlife agencies and federal authorities. Participants range from individual trappers and hunting guides to larger commercial hunting operations that supply meat and pelts to processors and retailers.

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Industry Trends

01

Increasing emphasis on sustainable wildlife management practices and population monitoring as conservation concerns drive stricter harvest regulations and licensing requirements across states.

02

Growing integration of hunting and trapping with agritourism and outdoor recreation enterprises, including guided hunting experiences and educational programs that diversify income streams.

03

Rising demand for locally-sourced and wild-harvested game meat as consumers seek alternative protein sources, creating new market opportunities for commercial hunters and processors.

GPS

Adoption of digital technologies including GPS tracking, remote wildlife monitoring, and online licensing systems to improve operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

05

Expansion of predator control programs and wildlife damage management services driven by conflicts between expanding wildlife populations and agricultural interests across rural regions.

Specialty Reports Available on Request

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Hunting & Trapping
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Hunting & Trapping

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NAICS 1142? ▾
NAICS 1142 is the classification for hunting and trapping activities, including the commercial harvesting of wild animals, birds, and furbearing creatures. This industry encompasses both independent trappers and hunters as well as organized hunting operations and guide services that operate under state and federal wildlife regulations.
What are the primary products and revenue sources in this industry? ▾
Primary products include game meat (venison, wild boar, waterfowl), furs and pelts (beaver, mink, fox), and hunting-related services such as guide services and outfitting. Revenue is generated through the direct sale of harvested products, licensing fees, guide services, and hunting expeditions, with seasonal variations based on state-specific hunting seasons.
How do regulatory requirements affect hunting and trapping operations? ▾
All hunting and trapping operations must comply with state-specific hunting seasons, licensing requirements, bag limits, and weapon restrictions established by fish and wildlife agencies. Federal regulations also apply for protected species, migratory birds, and endangered species, making regulatory compliance a critical operational requirement that varies significantly by location and season.
What skills and equipment are essential for success in this industry? ▾
Successful practitioners require extensive knowledge of wildlife behavior, habitat management, and local ecology, combined with proficiency in weapons, tracking, field dressing, and preservation techniques. Essential equipment ranges from firearms and traps to field gear, transportation, processing equipment, and increasingly, digital tools for monitoring and documentation.
How is the industry adapting to environmental and conservation pressures? ▾
The industry is increasingly adopting science-based management practices, participating in habitat restoration programs, and implementing selective harvesting techniques to ensure sustainable populations. Many operators are diversifying into conservation-focused activities, wildlife education, and ecotourism to align with growing environmental expectations while maintaining economic viability.

Related Industries

Fishing 1141Support Activities for Crop Production 1151Museums, Historical Sites, & Similar Institutions 7121Animal Food Manufacturing 3111

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