ORIGINAL: Orion in IL
We just lost an important part of our tradition!
Who else looked forward to going to the check stations to see what others got? I know I did....especially firearm season.
I actually would go to the check stations when others in our party got deer and I didn't, just so I could see some of the big busters others guys got.
Where did you get him? Did you see any other deer? Where they chasing does yet? Tell me about the big one that got away, etc.
We all liked seeing the look in the faces and eyes of youngsters with their first deer. And we all made sure to pat them on the back to encourage them for future ethical hunts.
Now, say hello to the impersonal phone and internet.
Illinois has money for biketrails (at the expense of hunters tax dollars), but we do not have money to keep the tradition alive???
BIG MISTAKE!
No wonder why hunter numbers (including NEW, young hunters) continue to decline!
Orion.......you are exactly right!! We have had this system for the last two years in Missouri. The saddest part during gun season is the loss of "The check station"...the line so long after dark that the hiway patrol is there directing traffic......seeing everyone else's deer....the ooooohs and ahhhhhhs.......congratulations, where were you hunting....(give a vague answer).....the young hunters with their first buck or doe and the grin on their face.....the pride in dad or mom's eyes and the over all atmosphere of the best day ever. Bow season is a little slower at check in.....sometimes there's a line, but no need for traffic control..........Now that's all gone, and the sad part is the young hunters will not experience it. By the way, we all know that the cheaters will ALWAYS find a way to cheat....