RE: how is this "hunting"
Actually, that’s inexperience talking.
Outdoorlover,
Many of the philosophies presented here have their basis in assumption, speculation, and a lack of first hand experience (I’ll leave a lack of tolerance out for now). Surly you’re not going to rely on them?
I have a question for you. If you truly believe that these animals have no possible means of escape, then why are theyoutside of the fence? Again, they do not just drop from the sky. Many and I do mean many, hunters take severe advantage of this fact (animals escaping). If you do not believe me, try a Texas hunting forum. There are plenty for you to visit. I, personally, have watched animals move from one side of a fence to the other.
The benefits of high fence (the why):
Zoos keep animals from becoming extinct. High fence owners keep animal for re-introduction.
Did you know, for example, that axis deer were completely shot out in their native habitat? Now, thanks to the assistance of high fence owner in North America (many of them are extraordinary conservationists. Their love for animals is as deep as yours), axis deer are being reintroduced to their place of origin. The same can be said for David Pere deer. You surly know about our American bison? They were nearly extinct. Thank goodness we had “fenced” landowner with a little foresight to save them. How about New Zealand? Where do you think all the great hunting came from that exists on those two islands? Son, in Africa, one of the poorest places on the planet, lions are being raised behind high fence. So are Rhinos. If we didn’t have the fences, they would all be gone! That’s a reality!
The how
Where do they get the money to support their conservation endeavors (Anti poaching troops need to feed their families; their service usually is not free)? It’s easy- they sell hunts. You see, begging has not worked nor has pleading!
Yes, there are some rats out there (they’re in it just for the money)-I will not deny that. Beware! Do your homework!
If you believe they are all wrong, then you are doing wildlife a disservice.
The when
All wildlife needs to be managed. These land owners need to remove does, fawns and cull animals on a regular basis. That’s why they sell hunts. They’re able to get two birds with a single stone-money to support their wildlife and population control. As conservationist, they are not into killing. However, they recognize it as a necessary evil to maintain a healthy herd.
In conclusion
You are absolutely right. Hunting should not be about just the killing. For many of us, it goes well beyond that. There is a time and a place for everything. That my friend is something I hope someday you understand. To make blanket statements without really diving into the “when, why, and how” should be avoided at all costs. Sometimes we have to check our emotions at the door and deal with the realities in life.
At the young age of 15, I pray you have many years of adventure and discovery. On your journey, please I ask, learn to keep an open mind!
I have never hunted America’s indigenous big game species within a high fence (exception: I was asked to help cull six bull elk from a 1200 acre ranch. Previous attempts failed to yield the correct results-mine too). I probaly never will. But, I have hunted many places around the world. Some were behind high fence.Trust me, my mind and my eyes have been left wide open. That’s why I say “not everything is as it appears on the surface”.
For the record, you won’t see my name in any record book, and I still get very excited about my hunting and harvests. Not all of them have horns….
Good luck to you buddy!