From what I understand, the hunting community is facing dwindling numbers of hunters each year and groups (Game Commission, Sportsmen's Clubs, etc.) are currently focusing on trying to spur growth through awareness, marketing and youth programs.

I come from a long line of SW Pennsylvania trappers and ginseng hunters. Everyone in my family hunts, traps, etc., so my involvement was almost inevitable, no matter how much my mother hated the idea.

I guess I'm just wondering how everyone else was introduced to hunting.

Specifically, I'd like to know how those of you who DIDN'T come from a hunting family got started. Was it something that you just wanted to try? Something that a friend introduced you to? Were you influenced by television/music/advertising/et cetera?