Fish and Game Warden how-to

How to Investigate a Poaching Complaint

Careful investigations build strong cases.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Careful investigations build strong cases. In short: interview; visit; look, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Interview the reporting party.

  2. Visit the scene and document evidence.

  3. Look for tracks, shell casings and blood.

  4. Identify suspects and witnesses.

  5. Collect and preserve evidence.

  6. Prepare a case report.

Safety reminders for fish and game wardens

  • Plan for officer safety in remote areas
  • Wear life jackets on patrol boats
  • Keep radio contact and share locations
  • Prepare for weather and terrain

Bag limit · Season · Poaching · Tag · Spotlighting · Baiting: see the full fish and game warden glossary.

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