A lot of my hunting friends disagree with me, but oh well. I don't hunt predators and probably never will. I don't agree with the folks who think predators should be eliminated to improve hunting for us sport hunters.

I would have absolutely no problem killing one that was in any way threatening me or my family (e.g. a nuisance bear or a cat that was near where I was living and was dangerous), but really have no desire to kill one for sport. I do whatever I can when in the wilderness to avoid this situation and am proud that having seen many dozens of grizzleys in the wild, have never had a dangerous encounter.

I definitely think the wilds are better and more valuable to me personally if there's predators out there. It's part of nature's balance and to me indicates a healthier wilderness. I do believe, as a human consumer of wild game, in managed balance, and respect the reduction of predators if the professionals think it's needed, but I'd personally rather see some of the balance of game animals maintained by wild predators rather than just by humans. Yes, from time to time, it just might mean a little less for the sport hunters to hunt, but I think the presence of wild predators is worth it. Just one guy's opinion.