RE: What stage of deer hunter are you?
It would seem I am in 3, 4 &5. Trophy hunting is one reason why I do (Stages 4 & 5), so that puts me in stage 3 to begin with. I am consumed by this sport, I practice and hone my skills at every opportunity. Always looking at new advancements in equipment and how they may help me in my pursuit. Ways to better my practice to help acheive the most out of my time in the woods. Strieve for knowledge on deer movements, techniques, etc(Stage 4). I now think a lot about management and how my desicions impact the resource. I tend to share my management thoughts, ideals at every opportunity. Harvesting game seems to be very symbolic to me, but not essential for full enjoyment of the sport. Passing on the traditions of this sports is a very high priority.(stage 5)
I think that most people no matter what harvest stage they are in (1, 2 or 3), the 4th and 5th stages are very much part of the mix. It would seem most hunters today strieve for info, live for the sport, believe in management & resource protection. Not to mention the passing on of the tradition.