ORIGINAL: mnbirddog
And a complete misuse of a natural resource.
As long as they are in a high fence, it isn't really a natural resource. Thats why none of the "books" recognize them. That being said, I would NEVER be proud of a high fence kill.
JMO, but they are technically livestock. That's one way I think MN has an edge on states like Texas (not to pick on anybody by any means, its just a place I have been), we may not have as many big bucks,
but our captive deer are considered livesock.
I think this is what most people don't understand, any many of the HF advocates HATE to hear, but it IS the truth. I know a guy who shot a 140-class 8pt on one of these places, and for him it IS a trophy, but I personally wouldn't see it as near the trophy that my little 100" 9pt is, because that little guy was a completely fair chase. Jeff my "hat's off" to you for not going on the "Canned Hunt."
Teejay,
As Jeff (GMMAT) said, at least the pheasants are free to fly away if they choose to do so. The deer on the other hand AREN'T!!!
wildlifeguy,
Where are you from??? I'd bet Texas; if so, I understand, as it seems that MANY Texans are big advocates for the HF's, because it seems to be a big part of Texas Hunting. Likewise, I believe the Feeders are much more accepted in Texas, because it sounds like EVERYONE has one, and if you're neighbor has 10 of them, and your land won't support deer without them, then you'd better have a few if you want to see a few deer. Not that the feeder is the only way to hunt the deer, but it helps your land hold them much better than it would without them. Here in OH, with good acorn crops, lots of corn, alfalfa and soybean, feeders don't seem to get hit much until the fields are harvested and the acorn crop exhausted, therefore, they are as big a part of hunting here.