Post by: tbrady on October 19, 2009, 09:12:36 PM
Not everyone who hunts - unloads 15 rounds at some animal and never even bothers to go look for it, trashes the entire area they were camping with trash and beer cans, does rapid-fire pistol shooting in the middle of the night, proudly straps their kill to their vehicle for all to see, has a total disregard for other people hunting (and the animals they are hunting) and the list goes on and on (this doesn't even include the poachers who should be shot on the spot).
If members of the general public who currently consider themselves neutral towards hunting, were to go out on opening day in some of the more populated GMUs, they could very easily become anti-hunter in minutes. The few hunters that act like this really ruin it for everyone. Maybe I'm getting old and "soft" but hunting is a sacred thing to me and I feel some sadness each time I take an animal. Don't get me wrong, I get really excited but when all is said and down and kneel down next to this incredible animal, I feel some sadness.
I wish there were a better way to police our own. It's a shame that guys like this have the same opportunities to hunt as those that truly respect the animals, the sport and the environment.
I know none of you know me and I'm new to this site but I just needed a place to vent this evening.
Post by: billythekidrock on October 19, 2009, 09:46:57 PM
I know how you feel and I agree 100%.
Post by: DOUBLELUNG on October 19, 2009, 09:51:06 PM
I have many times said that I love hunting so much, I hate most hunters.
Post by: carpsniperg2 on October 19, 2009, 09:52:37 PM
Post by: rainshadow1 on October 19, 2009, 09:54:18 PM
Hunting, fishing, and living the outdoor life is a lifestyle for me, not just something I devote a couple 3 day weekends to per year to blow off steam.
Guys like you describe should be locked up. Plain and simple. I hate seeing them, I hate talking to them, they disgust me, and it grates me deeply that they're what people point to as "hunters."
They're not hunters, they're :mor:
If they're here, reading this, GROW THE HECK UP!
Post by: ribka on October 19, 2009, 09:55:47 PM
Wish people had more respect for animals they are hunting.
I moved here from the east coast and they closed a good deal of hunting areas there because of slob hunters. All it takes is one wounded deer with an arrow in its hind quarters running around some school or neighborhood on the news to shut down and area. People here out West (WA) do not yet understand but in a few years it could affect hunting areas and regs.
Post by: sako223 on October 19, 2009, 10:05:23 PM
Some years are better but never really good anymore.
Post by: flashover52 on October 19, 2009, 10:11:49 PM
I finally made it out on Sunday. I mentioned in an other post, I never took my gun out of the case or unlocked the trigger lock. I picked up a half a plastic garbage bag of pretty big stuff and went home disgusted.......
Hell, two years ago I found a Honda gas engine on a wheel barrow style air compressor and a metal mattress frame. Too much steel there for it to be tweakers leaving it.....too rough a shape to fix it. Cost me $18 to get rid of it.....
Post by: antlerbolic_bearoids on October 19, 2009, 10:18:44 PM
Post by: NWBREW on October 19, 2009, 10:41:22 PM
Post by: EastWaViking on October 19, 2009, 11:04:16 PM
Just keep reporting them and collecting points!
Post by: Tony 270WSM on October 19, 2009, 11:09:25 PM
Ashamed to be a hunter some days? The idea seems to be the actions of some look and reflect poorly on you... right?
Let me spin this a different way. Are you white? Are you ashamed to be white some days because there are some racist POSs out there? Some members of KKK, some "good 'ole boys" down in the south? Do their actions make you ashamed?
Black? Do the thugs and wanna-be thugs make you ashamed to be black? The stereotypical whistle blowers who cry racism every time things don't go their way? You ashamed?
Do poachers make you ashamed that you hunt? Are you engaging in illegal hunting activities? Are you doing these things?
There are some lousy people out there. Those that do illegal things, unethical things, downright disgusting things. Doesn't matter what color you are, what activities you engage in. How you carry yourself defines who you are and how you should feel, not who you might be perceived to be associated with. If you don't like what they are doing, do something about it, don't feel bad about yourself.
Post by: EastWaViking on October 19, 2009, 11:13:14 PM
Post by: ouchfoss on October 19, 2009, 11:33:22 PM
All the the above are the reasons I now archery hunt mostly private land. It is unreal how many slobs are out during general rifle season... not hunters.... slobs and poachers. And they are the most visible to the non-hunting public because they don't get back in the woods and hunt like most of us on this website.
Just keep reporting them and collecting points!
I Can't agree more. Thats one of the great things I like about archery hunting. Theres far less idiots running around the woods ruining things for us ( at least for the most part).
Post by: bearpaw on October 19, 2009, 11:44:02 PM
I want to say I also find it very disappointing to read all the complaints and all the ideas everyone has for outlawing everything from recreational quad riding to horseback riding. Why can't we all just share the outdoors with each other and respect each others preferences to enjoy the outdoors, as long as a person isn't breaking the law intentionally. When you observe someone obviosly breaking the law, report it. We don't need to limit everybody else from recreating in ways that we don't personally enjoy. This self centeredness will be the demise of our freedoms....:twocents:
I didn't bother reading your entire post or any here, but I disagree with your title completely.
Ashamed to be a hunter some days? The idea seems to be the actions of some look and reflect poorly on you... right?
Let me spin this a different way. Are you white? Are you ashamed to be white some days because there are some racist POSs out there? Some members of KKK, some "good 'ole boys" down in the south? Do their actions make you ashamed?
Black? Do the thugs and wanna-be thugs make you ashamed to be black? The stereotypical whistle blowers who cry racism every time things don't go their way? You ashamed?
Do poachers make you ashamed that you hunt? Are you engaging in illegal hunting activities? Are you doing these things?
There are some lousy people out there. Those that do illegal things, unethical things, downright disgusting things. Doesn't matter what color you are, what activities you engage in. How you carry yourself defines who you are and how you should feel, not who you might be perceived to be associated with. If you don't like what they are doing, do something about it, don't feel bad about yourself.
Post by: sako223 on October 20, 2009, 12:03:11 AM
As hunting becomes tougher people look for more shortcuts.
One thing is common, they always claim ignorance, always. Even the bow hunters that had the rifle hidden in the bush behind them.
I hope more enforcement happens or we are risking loosing more as the groups will continue to clash. We have found that getting into their pocket is the only real effective penalty. Take their money and they remember it.
Post by: antlerbolic_bearoids on October 20, 2009, 12:42:35 AM
Post by: SHANE(WA) on October 20, 2009, 01:31:19 AM
Post by: EastWaViking on October 20, 2009, 07:25:06 AM
Post by: fishm@n on October 20, 2009, 07:41:47 AM
Post by: jstone on October 20, 2009, 07:58:29 AM
Post by: let.it.fly on October 20, 2009, 08:01:14 AM
Post by: lostcat on October 20, 2009, 08:04:19 AM
Post by: jstone on October 20, 2009, 08:15:22 AM
Post by: turbo on October 20, 2009, 08:34:59 AM
Post by: tbrady on October 20, 2009, 09:09:27 AM
Quote
I didn't bother reading your entire post or any here, but I disagree with your title completely.
Ashamed to be a hunter some days? The idea seems to be the actions of some look and reflect poorly on you... right?
Let me spin this a different way. Are you white? Are you ashamed to be white some days because there are some racist POSs out there? Some members of KKK, some "good 'ole boys" down in the south? Do their actions make you ashamed?
Black? Do the thugs and wanna-be thugs make you ashamed to be black? The stereotypical whistle blowers who cry racism every time things don't go their way? You ashamed?
Do poachers make you ashamed that you hunt? Are you engaging in illegal hunting activities? Are you doing these things?
There are some lousy people out there. Those that do illegal things, unethical things, downright disgusting things. Doesn't matter what color you are, what activities you engage in. How you carry yourself defines who you are and how you should feel, not who you might be perceived to be associated with. If you don't like what they are doing, do something about it, don't feel bad about yourself.
Tony, I don't disagree with what you say but I don't think it is quite that simple. Maybe it's more accurate to say I feel ashamed of other hunters behaviors some days. I am constantly defending hunting/hunters at my place of employment. It's an environment where 90% of the people there have a negative perception of how "hunters" "behave" while "hunting". I don't feel bad about myself as a hunter. I feel bad that me and all you guys that have responded to this post are associated with a bunch of low-life slobs.
Our state has the highest percentage of anti-hunters anywhere in the country. Whether their perception is right or fair is irrelevant, it impacts the most ethical of hunters just the same. I think a better analogy than using race is using Islam where a minority of Muslims has severely impacted peoples perception of it.
Thanks for all the replies everyone.
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on October 20, 2009, 09:26:03 AM
Post by: rainshadow1 on October 20, 2009, 10:13:12 AM
Thinking about it, I don't know if I'd ever say "I'm ashamed to be a hunter" in any context... But I understand why it was said here....
We need to carefully, publically, disassociate these dirtbags with the group "hunters," and identify them properly as "poachers" or "criminals" or other catagories of "idiots committing crimes while carrying hunting licenses."
But don't overlook the fact that most of the non-hunting general public sees them as "hunters."
That's OUR problem. And it gets sickening. So while it's a good point, I understand the feelings that bring the post title.
Washington doesn't have enough F&W enforcement to stop this kind of stuff, local law enforcement doesn't want anything to do with most of what we see going on, so that leaves us...
INSTANTLY....Pull out the cameras and cell phones! Forget about points, get these brain dead FOOLS into the jails where they belong!
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on October 20, 2009, 10:47:46 AM
Photos + license plate #'s + willingness to testify = BONUS POINTS = OIL Tag
Dont get me wrong A-Holes like that don't belong in the woods, I was just stating an additional benefit.
Post by: KimberRich on October 20, 2009, 11:13:05 AM
Sunday afternoon we were headed back over Blewitt and passed a guy with the head of a tiny little 3 point Muley tied up to the top of his tailgate. Bloody face with tongue hanging out. The rest of his bed was empty. It wasn't some young kid with his first buck or something or a monster buck that someone would be super proud of. A barely legal buck. It makes me angry. :bash:
I see it every year and don't get it??
Post by: PWN Kurt on October 20, 2009, 11:29:32 AM
They seem to be the drinks of choice of the guys who leave dirty campsites and toss their cans at the trail head of a hunting area.
I did see a lot of responsible hunters out this last weekend...most were very courteous and respectful. However, it's the 2 or 3 idiots that really stuck with me.
Post by: sandythebowtotenmama on October 20, 2009, 02:46:33 PM
Post by: provider on October 20, 2009, 03:02:47 PM
I am sick and tired of this nonsense attitude that “just because it’s legal… we should all be supportive”. No I do not support it. Just because you enjoy recreating a certain (unethical) way, does not mean others should allow it. Your actions create a negative perception of hunters and do affect all of us. Make no mistake, the non-hunting public will ultimately decide the future of hunting, so it is imperative we display good character.
Oh, and I don’t care if you choose to use archery equipment, or muzzleloader, or modern. That choice makes you no more virtuous… and no less. Your choice of weapon, race, or religion does not dictate whether you are ethical or not. If you are a knucklehead… you are a knucklehead.
Post by: NWBREW on October 20, 2009, 03:08:33 PM
I think if they added some sort of birth-control into Keystone Light and Mt.Dew it might help the problem for the next generation.
I did see a lot of responsible hunters out this last weekend...most were very courteous and respectful. However, it's the 2 or 3 idiots that really stuck with me.
Thats fine by me....I like mnt. dew and I don't need any more kids. :chuckle: :chuckle:
But I'm glad you pointed out that most hunters you ran into were respectful. and it is not just rifle hunters....there are idiots using all hunting methods. The rifle hunters are just a lot more dangerous and there are more of them and more visibly seen. To some it's not about hunting, it's a drink fest and shooting. Don't get me wrong..there is nothing wrong with having a few beers or drinks after the hunt. I've been known to do that on ocassion.
Post by: Machias on October 20, 2009, 03:54:08 PM
This is precisely the topic that needs to be discussed on this forum more often. We must never remove ourselves from the debate over the importance of operating in the highest of ethical standards. Since so many refuse to conduct themselves ethically, the rest of us must encourage and influence them to do so.
I am sick and tired of this nonsense attitude that “just because it’s legal… we should all be supportive”. No I do not support it. Just because you enjoy recreating a certain (unethical) way, does not mean others should allow it. Your actions create a negative perception of hunters and do affect all of us. Make no mistake, the non-hunting public will ultimately decide the future of hunting, so it is imperative we display good character.
Oh, and I don’t care if you choose to use archery equipment, or muzzleloader, or modern. That choice makes you no more virtuous… and no less. Your choice of weapon, race, or religion does not dictate whether you are ethical or not. If you are a knucklehead… you are a knucklehead.
Can you clarify that middle paragraph for me?
Post by: runamuk on October 20, 2009, 04:23:58 PM
This is precisely the topic that needs to be discussed on this forum more often. We must never remove ourselves from the debate over the importance of operating in the highest of ethical standards. Since so many refuse to conduct themselves ethically, the rest of us must encourage and influence them to do so.
I am sick and tired of this nonsense attitude that “just because it’s legal… we should all be supportive”. No I do not support it. Just because you enjoy recreating a certain (unethical) way, does not mean others should allow it. Your actions create a negative perception of hunters and do affect all of us. Make no mistake, the non-hunting public will ultimately decide the future of hunting, so it is imperative we display good character.
Oh, and I don’t care if you choose to use archery equipment, or muzzleloader, or modern. That choice makes you no more virtuous… and no less. Your choice of weapon, race, or religion does not dictate whether you are ethical or not. If you are a knucklehead… you are a knucklehead.
Can you clarify that middle paragraph for me?
I'm with you Fred....usually when we say this it means legal methods, and not losing more methods.
I don't think anyone on here supports drunken hunting, garbage dumping, and random shooting.
I like to walk in to areas where people don't drive the further from civilization the better, I know a couple people who like to Mt. Bike, others who ride horses and yes a few who even enjoy driving and glassing....so long as each is obeying the rules and being polite one method really isn't better than the rest. IN fact if all those road hunters walked back where I like to go I would no longer have the peace and solitude I enjoy so I support safe minded road hunting I suppose ;)
Post by: SHANE(WA) on October 20, 2009, 05:24:14 PM
Post by: runamuk on October 20, 2009, 06:24:23 PM
its illegal to road hunt, how many of these individuals really get out of the rig and get off the road to shoot? not many, thats why its so hard to stop or enforce, nothing wrong with driving around
hmmmm maybe I need to define what I consider road hunting......people who drive and glass drive and glass spot something pull over get out and go shoot it...now if you are a disabled hunter shooting from a quad or rig is one thing.... if you are able bodied you best get your body out of your truck at least....I know plenty of people who hunt this way...it ain't my cup of tea it goes against every moral and ethic I have for myself......but if they are not shooting from the rig they aren't breaking a law...in fact people shooting grouse on roads are also breaking a law but it seems to be accepted to shoot grouse on roads.....I prefer not to...so I will continue to suck at hunting for now and be able to live with myself by not breaking any rules.....but I am not going to tell anyone else they must do it my way...to each their own....
Post by: passing-thru on October 20, 2009, 07:16:06 PM
Post by: Tony 270WSM on October 20, 2009, 07:18:33 PM
QuoteI didn't bother reading your entire post or any here, but I disagree with your title completely.
Ashamed to be a hunter some days? The idea seems to be the actions of some look and reflect poorly on you... right?
Let me spin this a different way. Are you white? Are you ashamed to be white some days because there are some racist POSs out there? Some members of KKK, some "good 'ole boys" down in the south? Do their actions make you ashamed?
Black? Do the thugs and wanna-be thugs make you ashamed to be black? The stereotypical whistle blowers who cry racism every time things don't go their way? You ashamed?
Do poachers make you ashamed that you hunt? Are you engaging in illegal hunting activities? Are you doing these things?
There are some lousy people out there. Those that do illegal things, unethical things, downright disgusting things. Doesn't matter what color you are, what activities you engage in. How you carry yourself defines who you are and how you should feel, not who you might be perceived to be associated with. If you don't like what they are doing, do something about it, don't feel bad about yourself.
Tony, I don't disagree with what you say but I don't think it is quite that simple. Maybe it's more accurate to say I feel ashamed of other hunters behaviors some days. I am constantly defending hunting/hunters at my place of employment. It's an environment where 90% of the people there have a negative perception of how "hunters" "behave" while "hunting". I don't feel bad about myself as a hunter. I feel bad that me and all you guys that have responded to this post are associated with a bunch of low-life slobs.
Our state has the highest percentage of anti-hunters anywhere in the country. Whether their perception is right or fair is irrelevant, it impacts the most ethical of hunters just the same. I think a better analogy than using race is using Islam where a minority of Muslims has severely impacted peoples perception of it.
Thanks for all the replies everyone.
No argument here. Tired of all the BS that goes on, but hoping to help out and change that when I can. Even looking to bust a co-worker who is just a POS when it comes the outdoors and ethics. Tried to talk to him many times about it, but he just doesn't care. The actions of others can reflect poorly on us in the eyes of the uneducated. Just keep doing your best and be proud of being a hunter, not ashamed of it.
Post by: EastWaViking on October 20, 2009, 07:34:58 PM
My wife was at the grocery store in Deer Park at lunch time, she said almost every guy there was in full camo, scruffy, buying a half rack and couldn't speak in complete sentences. This is what the majority of the non hunting public views all of us as. Nothing wrong with buying beer, or not shaving, even not being very good with English, but when you put them all together, you have the stereotypical "hunter" in most people's eyes.
Post by: KimberRich on October 22, 2009, 08:20:11 AM
On the way home tonight there was a truck stopped on the road behind our house, the property on both sides is private and only family members can hunt it. I drove around to see what was going on... the truck flipped a quick U turn when he saw me and headed out. This happens pretty much every night in our area. If there was a buck, he would have shot. I got his plate number a few miles down the road when he stopped to get gas, because I know he'll be back.
My wife was at the grocery store in Deer Park at lunch time, she said almost every guy there was in full camo, scruffy, buying a half rack and couldn't speak in complete sentences. This is what the majority of the non hunting public views all of us as. Nothing wrong with buying beer, or not shaving, even not being very good with English, but when you put them all together, you have the stereotypical "hunter" in most people's eyes.
Your totally right. That's what most people view us hunters as. It's not socially acceptable to stereotype people of a certain race or religion because of a couple bad eggs among them so it shouldn't be that way towards hunters.. But it is.
Post by: youngchristof on October 22, 2009, 09:20:22 AM
Post by: Swiftkid on October 22, 2009, 12:37:35 PM
Post by: NWBREW on October 22, 2009, 12:48:19 PM
a few bad apples can screw up the whole orchard!! it is pitiful how most people "hunt" if you want to call it that. I saw a rig on the road with a kid sitting ing the bed on a lawn chair holding his rifle. That is a great way to show a young man how to hunt. stupid people are multiplying fast. The sad thing is that the kid will think this is an acceptable way to hunt now and will proably be a lifetime road hunter. sad
Do you really believe that this how most people hunt? I know ALOT of hunters that are friends of mine and not one of them "hunts" that way. I believe what you are seeing is the minority not the majority. We all see it at one time or another, but that sounded like you just stereotyped hunters with that comment. Which is it...a few bad apples or how most people? I'm not trying to be a dick but would like to know if you think that is how "most people hunt". If that is what you believe then you have become a victim and a promoter of that stereotype. I do not believe that is how "most people hunt"...those that do are just more visible then most. And you are right....it is sad that boy will grow up thinking that acceptable to hunt from the bed of a pickup
Post by: RailRob on October 22, 2009, 01:02:42 PM
My wife was at the grocery store in Deer Park at lunch time, she said almost every guy there was in full camo, scruffy, buying a half rack and couldn't speak in complete sentences. This is what the majority of the non hunting public views all of us as. Nothing wrong with buying beer, or not shaving, even not being very good with English, but when you put them all together, you have the stereotypical "hunter" in most people's eyes.
Isnt that most of Deer Park? ..what does hunting have to do with it? hehehe kidding...
Post by: GoldTip on October 22, 2009, 01:15:00 PM
Post by: twisp_river_slayer on October 22, 2009, 01:19:55 PM
Post by: bearpaw on October 22, 2009, 02:11:13 PM
I have to agree with the folks who say hunting is nothing to be ashamed of. :twocents:
Post by: kirkl on October 22, 2009, 02:30:07 PM
This is precisely the topic that needs to be discussed on this forum more often. We must never remove ourselves from the debate over the importance of operating in the highest of ethical standards. Since so many refuse to conduct themselves ethically, the rest of us must encourage and influence them to do so.
I am sick and tired of this nonsense attitude that “just because it’s legal… we should all be supportive”. No I do not support it. Just because you enjoy recreating a certain (unethical) way, does not mean others should allow it. Your actions create a negative perception of hunters and do affect all of us. Make no mistake, the non-hunting public will ultimately decide the future of hunting, so it is imperative we display good character.
Oh, and I don’t care if you choose to use archery equipment, or muzzleloader, or modern. That choice makes you no more virtuous… and no less. Your choice of weapon, race, or religion does not dictate whether you are ethical or not. If you are a knucklehead… you are a knucklehead.
Why does this need to be discussed more often, its the same yahoos that keep posting one after another in here. If its not your way its not right. probably the same people that tear someones picture apart cause he wasnt wearing orange or shooting to far for there likings. And yes I drink keystone light. Boy this site is getting to be something else.
Post by: tbrady on October 22, 2009, 02:43:24 PM
I totally get that I should not feel ashamed for being a hunter. But I can sure as heck tell you it's a rare occassion that I hear something that makes me proud to be one. I did have a good friend get lost in Alpine lakes wilderness last year during archery season. A hunter found him and his friend, fed them, got them warmed up and trucked them right out of there. They were both amazed that a "hunter" were so kind to them. I tried to tell them that a lot more hunters than you realize would give you the shirt off their back without even knowing your name.
Maybe the answer to all this is for the "real hunters" to do more good for the environment/resources etc. (I mean more publicly/openly) and let the general public see the better side of the people who engage in this sport or even this lifestyle to some extent.
Post by: tbrady on October 22, 2009, 02:50:44 PM
Quote
Why does this need to be discussed more often, its the same yahoos that keep posting one after another in here. If its not your way its not right. probably the same people that tear someones picture apart cause he wasnt wearing orange or shooting to far for there likings. And yes I drink keystone light. Boy this site is getting to be something else.
I'm not sure I get what you're saying. Are you saying that if I have a problem with some hunter doing something that makes US look horrible to the general public, then just deal with it?? This ain't got nothing to do with "if its not your way its not right".
Post by: Machias on October 22, 2009, 02:52:14 PM
As a group we already do this, but you cannot get the liberal hunter hating media to cover it. I bet your one of those fellas embarrassed because your white or because you live in American, am I right? Same mentality. We are the ones who clean up the environment, we are the ones clearing trails, we are the ones helping other folks out in the back country when they break down or get lost. WE ARE THE ONES DOING LOTS OF GOOD THINGS IN and AROUND THE WOODS!
Post by: .308shooter on October 22, 2009, 02:58:00 PM
Post by: tbrady on October 22, 2009, 03:14:26 PM
Quote
I bet your one of those fellas embarrassed because your white or because you live in American, am I right? Same mentality
No, you're wrong. I can walk into just about any restaurant as a white american and not get an "ugh" look. But if I were to walk in with my blaze orange or camo, well... it wouldn't matter if I just spent the entire day restoring wildlife habitat or poaching, there are a lot of preconceived ideas out there about hunters. And I could give a rat's butt about what most people think regarding me, but this is different imo, way different. These people could very well severely impact a sport I dearly love.
Heck, who do you think pushed the ban on bear baiting or hound hunting through? Not that I support either of those, but that's an example of how public perception impacts us whether you like it (or believe it) or not.
Post by: runamuk on October 22, 2009, 03:22:03 PM
QuoteI bet your one of those fellas embarrassed because your white or because you live in American, am I right? Same mentality
No, you're wrong. I can walk into just about any restaurant as a white american and not get an "ugh" look. But if I were to walk in with my blaze orange or camo, well... it wouldn't matter if I just spent the entire day restoring wildlife habitat or poaching, there are a lot of preconceived ideas out there about hunters. And I could give a rat's butt about what most people think regarding me, but this is different imo, way different. These people could very well severely impact a sport I dearly love.
Heck, who do you think pushed the ban on bear baiting or hound hunting through? Not that I support either of those, but that's an example of how public perception impacts us whether you like it (or believe it) or not.
Actually this whole perception thing is kinda fun for me......lets see 40 something female, blonde, wearing camo and orange....everywhere I have gone I have been asked politely if I have killed anything yet...almost every woman I have run into in gas stations, espresso stands stores the bank have asked how I am doing and then told me how their hunts are going....or not...lol...I actually have been pleasantly surprised a few times I have expected to be looked at funny but not so far......
Post by: tbrady on October 22, 2009, 03:33:52 PM
Quote
everywhere I have gone I have been asked politely if I have killed anything yet...almost every woman I have run into in gas stations, espresso stands stores the bank have asked how I am doing and then told me how their hunts are going
Where do you live?! That's where I need to move. :) It's a little bit different here in King County!
Post by: runamuk on October 22, 2009, 03:36:36 PM
I matriculate in Grays harbor county, mason county, thurston county, and lewis county ;)Quoteeverywhere I have gone I have been asked politely if I have killed anything yet...almost every woman I have run into in gas stations, espresso stands stores the bank have asked how I am doing and then told me how their hunts are going
Where do you live?! That's where I need to move. :) It's a little bit different here in King County!
Post by: provider on October 23, 2009, 08:09:27 PM
Quote
This is precisely the topic that needs to be discussed on this forum more often. We must never remove ourselves from the debate over the importance of operating in the highest of ethical standards. Since so many refuse to conduct themselves ethically, the rest of us must encourage and influence them to do so.
I am sick and tired of this nonsense attitude that “just because it’s legal… we should all be supportive”. No I do not support it. Just because you enjoy recreating a certain (unethical) way, does not mean others should allow it. Your actions create a negative perception of hunters and do affect all of us. Make no mistake, the non-hunting public will ultimately decide the future of hunting, so it is imperative we display good character.
Oh, and I don’t care if you choose to use archery equipment, or muzzleloader, or modern. That choice makes you no more virtuous… and no less. Your choice of weapon, race, or religion does not dictate whether you are ethical or not. If you are a knucklehead… you are a knucklehead.
Can you clarify that middle paragraph for me?
Sure Fred. I'm always willing to clarify things for you. :)
Many examples of being witness to unethical actions were posted on this thread (no need to quote them all, you can re-read them if necessary), and then there were posts suggesting we should not be critical of others (unethical) actions, just because they are legal, regardless of ethics. That is nonsense. Does that explain to you sufficiently my middle paragraph? Probably not?
There are many laws/regulation based on ethics. Things we as a society deem unethical, immoral, unacceptable. And because some members of society choose to operate unethically, lack moral code, we legislate to enforce it. There is also unethical, immoral, and otherwise questionable acts that are legal and some members of society also choose to exercise these. That does not mean they are acceptable.
I've been accused before of taking the moral high road. My response... "you're damn right."
Something as important as hunting leaves no room for nonsense. The negative affects of unethical behavior (legal or not) threaten the very existence of hunting's future. I won't sit back and allow that.
Post by: Machias on October 23, 2009, 08:47:15 PM
Post by: fremont on October 24, 2009, 12:07:12 AM
Post by: Chopaka81 on October 25, 2009, 10:28:00 AM
Their offense...?
They jack-lighted the game wardens remote control decoy, shot it not once, but twice.
Hunter's need to have the balls to split ranks with "old friends" who only show up once a year at hunting camp.
Don
Post by: sako223 on October 25, 2009, 10:41:15 AM