Truth: rodeo clowns are the cash cows of the Wild West

In Idaho and throughout the Mountain West, rodeo clowns are more than court jesters! Many of us probably think their main job is dodging bucking broncos, wrangling rogue livestock, or cracking jokes.

But being a rodeo clown isn't all fun and games. What they make look so effortless actually takes nerves of steel, stealth, and keen observational skills.

Think about it: rodeo clowns are the first line of defense between a 2,000-pound bull and the rider he just bucked. It makes a strong case for why critical thinking and agility are non-negotiables in this profession.

Rodeo clowns also need to be master MCs, media-savvy, witty, and captivating orators with a knack for improv and the charisma to lead a loud, boisterous crowd--skills that earn them a lot more than peanuts!

According to Salary.com, an Idaho rodeo clown worth his salt can take home a substantial income, ranging from $54,820 to a staggering $63,822,000 per season. Not too shabby, y'all. Rodeo clowns in San Jose (and several other states), California make over $70k a year. 

It takes courage & comedy to make it as a rodeo clown.

Being an Idaho rodeo is a high-stakes, high-reward profession demanding equal parts courage and comedy. Unsung as they are, they're the real heroes of the rodeo circuit, ensuring the fun and safety of both the audience and the riders.

So, next time you see a clown strut into an Idaho rodeo arena, remember that behind that whacky painted smile and wild antics is a seasoned pro who's mastered the art of turning danger into delight while laughing their way to the bank.

Scroll for...

  • 11 new laws only real Idahoans would support 

  • A look at 20 bizarre sex laws on the books in Idaho & California

  • Washington's Weirdest Laws: 11 rules & regs you won't believe exist

Mix 106 logo
Get our free mobile app
  • 14 Idaho gun laws anti-Second Amendment Americans can't stand

  • The Idaho road rule that makes it legal to speed...sometimes

  • 5 beers that can land Boise locals in Ada County Jail

11 Spectacular Laws We Wish Existed in Idaho

Pitching a fresh law might sound a bit overwhelming, but it's a core part of how us regular folks get in on the democratic action. Here are 12 laws we would propose to Idaho lawmakers!

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

20 Bizarre Idaho & California Laws About Love & Sex

Let's talk about sex laws, Cali & Idaho.

Apparently, these two have a mouthful to share about how, where, and when their residents are having sex. And with whom. And with...what 😳

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

Washington's Weird Laws: 11 Regulations We Can't Believe Exist

Of all the crazy gin joints in the Pacific Northwest, Washington state is by far the strangest! Laws in the Evergreen State are so weird, it's hard to believe they're real.

🤳🏽 Scroll through the gallery below for a look at Washington's most bizarre-o legislation.

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

14 Controversial Idaho Gun Laws Anti-Gun People Hate

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

20 Bizarre Idaho & California Laws About Love & Sex

Let's talk about sex laws, Cali & Idaho.

Apparently, these two have a mouthful to share about how, where, and when their residents are having sex. And with whom. And with...what 😳

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

The Nifty Speeding Loophole More Idaho Drivers Should Use

Did you know Idaho residents can do 15 mph over the speed limit to pass a slow car on the highway? It's true! But this handy loophole doesn't give us a free pass to speed whenever we want.

Scroll on for the do's and don'ts of Idaho's passing loophole...

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

Scroll for...

  • Watch your back when you're driving thru these 15 Idaho counties

  • The five most popular trucks on Idaho roads

  • 10 cars catalytic converters thieves look for

Mix 106 logo
Get our free mobile app
  • A recap of Idaho's maximum speed limits

  • 9 most damaging violations to have on your ID driving record

  • A nifty speeding loophole more Idahoans should use

Watch Your Back When You're Driving Through These 15 Idaho Counties

Gallery Credit: Parker Kane

Here are the Top 5 Most Popular Trucks in Idaho (Are You Driving One of These?)

Gallery Credit: Parker Kane

Top 10 Most Popular Cars Among Catalytic Converter Thieves in Idaho

CarFax recently put together a list of the cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves in several regions across the United States. They lumped Idaho in with the "Plains" region. These are the vehicles that were targeted in that region.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

Do You Know Idaho's Maximum Speed Limits?

Even when there's no speed limit sign posted, there are still maximum speed limits in Idaho and violating them could result in penalties. Not familiar with them? We've got you covered.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

9 Moving Violations That Do the Most Damage to Your Idaho Driving Record

According to the Idaho Transportation Department, these are the 9 moving violations that can lead to 4 points being added onto your license.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

The Nifty Speeding Loophole More Idaho Drivers Should Use

Did you know Idaho residents can do 15 mph over the speed limit to pass a slow car on the highway? It's true! But this handy loophole doesn't give us a free pass to speed whenever we want.

Scroll on for the do's and don'ts of Idaho's passing loophole...

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

 

More From Mix 106