Honestly I fear the day may come when filming "killing OPPORTUNITIES" may indeed be passed off as "politically acceptable substitutions" for actually hunting. Catch & Release is the norm for fishing (and that's a GOOD thing) but I don't trust politicians nor todays younger generations who are quickly becoming more "Disney like" in their emotions, thoughts and beliefs. Making hunting more anti-septic is something that would appeal to them and EVERYONE filming their hunts would sure lend itself to such a long term goal. No I'm NOT advocating doing away with hunting shows on tv but the thought of essentially EVERY hunter in the woods with MORE electronic gadgetry is abhorrent. (I must admit feeling that the VAST majority of which are becoming annoying as they are usually just 30min infomercials filmed on private game ranches, with emphasis ONLY on killing of THE largest specimen while seemingly making the lesser sized almost worthless. The likewise are void of any true artistic display in production nor convey ANY appreciation for the inspiring beauty of the natural world!)

I know all that may sound far fetched but I'll use an example of "modernity" and over complication... Not all that long ago my grandfather spoke of traveling on hunts via airplane when one simply carried their rifle thru the airport WITH them while zipped in a common soft guncase. As you boarded the plane you were greeted by a smiling stewardess who welcomed you aboard and kindly placed your rifle in forward coat closet where it stayed until it was handed to you at the completion of the flight! The same society that brought about air travel regulations are the same ones that drive perceptions and regulations of our sports as well.

Besides, being a sentimentalist myself I rather enjoy re-telling and indeed reliving the tale of a particular trophy while gazing up at it in my trophy room/living room, adult beverages in hand, a crackling fire providing ambiance while in the warm company of cherished friends/family.... THAT is my idea of the greatest hunts relived! Sometimes THE greatest stories are those never SEEN but indeed TOLD! It's been that way since the dawn of man, I don't understand this compulsion to suddenly change it just because of the existence of some created technology?


HL