I have changed my view slightlyon this subject the last couple of years. I still will hunt for mature bucks while taking a doe or two early for the freezer. But when it comes down to it..........hunting in general is for the meat and for personal pleasure. The personalquest for amonster buckis still an adventure and great challenge each season, butas hunting has evolved,hunting for big bucks has also made deer hunting more competitive in having a place to hunt, no matter if you lease or ask for permission. Takefor example a fewguys hunting the same place and if are all happy just being able to fill a freezer thereare usually no problems. But take the same guys and if they all become trophy hunters, I guarantee they will all end up trying togain hunting rights for themselves alone.

My 24 yr. old son isgoing to bowhunt for the first timethis season and no matter what deer he takes(if successful), he and I both will be proud and content.