You are getting into a field of ethics where there are not absolutes, but let me try. In Pennsylvania, hunting deer and other animals over a pile of bait, a feeder, or something of that nature is ILLEGAL. I used the caps to make a point. Some don't consider it UNETHICAL. There is a difference. In many states and in several Canadian provinces, hunting over bait is completely legal for some species of game animals. There are still those who consider it unethical, even though it is legal. They should not do it if they feel that way.

Planting a feed plot to attract deer or other species is not illegal in this state. Most don't consider it unethical either. I am not sure where you draw the line between a field of Imperial Clover, an alfalfa field, or a cornfield. A field is a field. A food plot is a field, regardless of size. I see nothing wrong with your friend's kill, either ethically or legally. It is for others who have their moral absolutes firmly fixed to make judgements. I don't, but have just rendered an opinion.

Would I hunt over bait? I certainly would if it were legal, and especially if the circumstances made it the only practical way to hunt a species. In some areas of Canada, baiting is the only way you would get to see a black bear. I much prefer spot and stalk hunting as it is done in British Columbia, but a baited hunt is not a sure thing in Alberta.

We probably will beat this one to death, and I expect the 'holier than thou' types to jump in an pronounce hunting over bait to be as evil as devil worship.