PLEASE READ and Stand together!

[OSCAR1987]

Between ever shrinking places of opportunity and the desire to succeed, it stands to reason that the competition is strong for the few good hunting spots left to us public land hunters. I feel that this is a major contributor to the frustration expressed by many of the experienced hunters who post on this forum.
I personally cannot justify the expense of a lease site for waterfowl hunting in any form. This makes it pretty hard for guys like me who don't have the resources to draw upon to even learn the "right" way to waterfowl hunt. I am still getting out there and trying, I absolutely refuse to give up. I am guilty of skybusting in the past, but as I get better at judging distances, species and behaviors I am improving my success rate. My calling is still shaky, but I have gotten some ducks to swing my way the last few times out. I read every post on here and seldom post myself, but I am trying to learn from you guys. There are some guys who just bash the crap outta anybody that shows any weakness, but that just makes the regular guys look better. I have certainly gotten a ration or two here. Thanks, Dale for laying down the law for that type of behavior! 

[Heartsblood]

Thanks for your post Oscar1987. I can relate. Especially on the leasing private land part (too rich for my blood) but also the attitudes that I see on display here.

It's a trip being a newish water fowler and hearing the types of things that have been posted lately by folks who it seems like should be mentors -  elder statesmen, yet they come off more like bleeding deacons. I too want to learn from the veteran hunters. And I am learning how to and how not to be. Who I want to be like and who I don't want to be like. It's kinda funny because there are a few on this board who I can't wait for them to post - I try to absorb everything these few guys say that seem relevant. I think the bleeding deacon types might keep this in mind as I'm fairly sure I'm not the only noob who is watching. You are setting an example no matter how you are behaving.

I am happy to see the mods are aware of what has been going on. Hats off to them fo' sho' 

[ICEMAN]

Great couple of posts.

[SurfingScooter]

Yep Yep, I want to read about hunting not drama.  I rarley post on HW, but I am on here most everyday trying to learn more about the addiction called hunting.

[OSCAR1987]

Great couple of posts.

your posts have taught me a lot... Keep showing us new guys what to teach our kids!