It looks like all types of experiences here. However, from local hunters here in TX, I've heard NOTHING but horror stories. Apparently Sam Houston WMA has got the world's WORST ball-breakers.
I've got to be honest... I just started hunting this season. Dove opener was my introduction. <img src=icon_smile_cool.gif border=0 align=middle> Since then, I've spent at least $2500 on guns, clothing, ammo, shooting lessons, range fees, videos, and books to outfit both myself and my son. I've read every thread on every hunting site I can find to learn what I need to know.
Yet - when I get into the field - I always seem to be a little short on knowledge in at least one area. Then it's back to the books to learn some more & get ready for the next weekend.
However, I can't afford $100's of nit-picky fines every other time or so I go out. I don't have buck fever - I've shot at targets on active duty that shot back. Making the shot is NOT what I'm worried about..
What I *DO* have is 'GW Fever'. What happens if I do get a shot?? The only guttin' I've done is on squirrels & doves last month. I've read the Deer HOWTO on this site but have never actually seen OR done it.
When do you tag the beast? How do you attach the tag to it? What are the protocols to take him to a check station? Do you have to take them ALL? Or just the first weekend?
I've got a zillion basic info questions like this. I've even called and left NUMEROUS messages on the GW's v-mail last month trying to get some info. Of course, he doesn't return his calls. And the one GW I've met in the field says to RTFM. [That's Read The Fine Manual - substitutions are legal in that sentence]
My fear is simple. If I see a legal deer - I'm going to shoot it. I'm confident enough that I will only take a shot I *KNOW* I can make and will now have a kill. I will use my best efforts based on the best information I have and try to follow all the rules and regulations...
Yet - As it will be my first kill - I most likely will unknowingly do something incorrect or not EXACTLY as the GW 'thought' it should be - and I'll be arrested and out $10K or more trying to clear it up at best.... or still be out $10K AND have a felony conviction on my record at worst. Now how would I explain that to my son? Worse - what if he's with me at that time?? I get thrown in jail for some BS issue and he gets to go to CPS until someone can get out there to pick him up.
I'm wondering if hunting is for me. My friends at the DropZone are wondering where I've been lately. Perhaps I'll go back to skydiving for at least there the Law of Gravity is constant and equally applied to all.
Sorry for the rant... but I'm not seeing a succesfull way to learn what I need to know to be legal without incurring $Zillions in fines. And a record to boot.
Clark
D23955
Houston, TX