RE: How important is the kill
I will say, beyond any shadow of a doubt, to me...the kill is just an added bonus. the best part to me is hearing the woods coming alive at sunup...spending good times in the outdoors with good friends and family and calling em in and getting them to hammer back at me. i can't wait for season this year, but it is for those reasons and not the kill. i agree with what rebelhog said...my priorities have changed in the last couple years. the coolest hunting experience to date was last deer season. i was with a friend and his 8 yr old son. my friend killed a deer with his kid by his side. That kid was so excited...thats what it's all about.
good luck this year.