Great post Sylvan. Nicely worded. I think a lot of the arguement is over semantics. I agree that if you are a hunter the ultimate goal is to make a kill of some kind, at some point. Your motive for that kill may/will vary. Some people restrict their goal for the kill toa specific type of animal that fits some self-imposed criteria, others are more opportunistic. I think the confusion comes in when people think of one instance rather than the experience as a whole. If I go out one day, or even one season,and don't kill anything is that an unsuccessful hunt? In one regard yes, since I didn't fufill my ultimate objective, but in other ways no, I succeeded in other goals (enjoyment of nature, safe outing, ethical practices, quiet time, fellowship) they just all didn't combine with the final conclusion. We are not merely killing, but neither are we merely passive observers of nature, we are active participants. So it would seem that some are discussing with one event/outing in mind, while othershave in mindthe practice of hunting as a whole.

I think the arguement parallels fly fishing. Fly fishers love the whole experience involved with fishing not just the catch. They enjoy the preparation, the application, and the catch. Is it just catching a fish? No they could do that more proficiently by using a net. But it's the experience as a whole, including the hooking up with a fighting fish.