Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge

Fish and Wildlife Management and the Trail to Eagle

Fish and Wildlife Management is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.

Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 5 main requirements for Fish and Wildlife Management. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1
Describe the meaning and purpose of fish and wildlife management.
2
List and discuss at least three major problems that continue to threaten fish and wildlife resources.
3
Describe some wildlife management practices used by managers in your state or region.
4
Do ONE of the following: visit a fish hatchery or wildlife management area, or conduct a wildlife survey.
5
Find out about three career opportunities in fish and wildlife management.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge

1. Get a blue card and a counselor

Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Fish and Wildlife Management, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.

2. Plan around the setting

Fish and Wildlife Management is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.

3. Budget the time

Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.

4. Track every requirement

Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 5 Fish and Wildlife Management requirements for you.

Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge FAQ

Is the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

No. Fish and Wildlife Management is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.

How long does the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge take?

Most scouts finish Fish and Wildlife Management in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.

Where do scouts usually earn the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge?

Fish and Wildlife Management is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Fish and Wildlife Management can sign off requirements.