How Much Do Florida Python Hunters Get Paid?
Back in 2023 the Florida Python Challenge wrapped up in the Florida Everglades with over 200 Burmese Pythons removed. More than 1,000 python hunters from 35 states All of them were out there hunting, trying to score prize money. Naples News reports that the winner, Paul Hobbs, captured 20 pythons and took home a cash prize of $10,000. The dates for the 2024 challenge have not yet been set.
Florida Python hunting isn’t just a once a year thing.
So, The South Florida Water Management District sponsors an ongoing ‘Python Elimination Program’ and is searching for “a limited number of public-spirited individuals to humanely euthanize these destructive snakes which have become an invasive apex predator in the Everglades. The program provides access to python removal agents on designated lands in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Collier, Hendry, Lee, and Palm Beach counties.”
So how much do you get paid to hunt the Florida Python?
- An hourly rate ($13.00 per hour or $18.00 per hour depending on the area) for up to ten (10) hours each day while actively searching for pythons on designated lands.
- An additional incentive payment of $50.00 for each python measuring up to four (4) feet plus an extra $25.00 for each foot measured above four (4) feet. See example below:
- An additional $200.00 for each verified active nest.
South Florida Water Management District
Before you rush in, here’s the qualifications:
- To be eligible, python removal agents must:
- Be at least eighteen (18) years of age
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- Possess a valid email address
- Have a bank account for direct deposit
- Have an iOS or Android mobile device that allows for download and utilization of the required Program Software
- Consent to be tracked using the GPS tracking app
- Sign a waiver of liability
- Have not been convicted of a felony or wildlife-related offense within the last seven (7) years
- Consent to submit to a criminal background check
- Consent to using the program software
- You want in? Apply Here
- Last updated: March 22nd, 2024
As you can see, you CAN make Florida python hunting into a full time job. But keep in mind before you head off into the swamp – it can get pretty wild down here.