Clark, if you do some research regarding the history of what we call "sport hunting," you'll find that idea came about as some hunters began to advocate for fair chase guidelines for hunters at a time when market and "pot" hunting was the norm. The "sport" moniker was because some hunters at the time (like Frank Forester and our own Wilbur Parker, Sr.) wanted hunters of the day to view their hunting like a sport in that it would have rules and a code of ethics. So, no ground swatting birds, shooting into flocks or coveys, taking more than you could use, etc. I'll admit I don't like the continued use of the term because it causes folks today to view sport hunting as trivializing the death of animals, making killing seem like a game...which was the furthest notion from the original intent. So, think of hunting as a sport in the sense that it was intended: an activity guided by rules and with an ethos that respects the animals pursued.
I understand your views on the suffering of animals, and as I age as a hunter, I view the killing aspect of hunting in a light much different from that of my youth. In some ways I think that is part of our growth and maturation as a hunter, and, dare I say, a sportsman. I see so much death and carnage on our highways -- the number of road killed animals in my state is astounding, and I seldom hear anyone cry out against that, or suggest doing much about it. Folks still eat meat, and my guess is that we will for the foreseeable future, but like you, some have looked to alternatives. I certainly respect that. I hope there continues to be room for all of us and that holding differing views helps us evolve our ideas and sense of ethics. We'll see.
I appreciate your thoughtful posts.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Clark McCombe
Thinking about this conversation kept me up last night. I've wrestled with this idea of "sport." Critics will say it's not "sport" to kill animals. It isn't sport - it's a skill. A skill that has to be acquired to do properly and humanely.
The question of guns in general can be opened up too. I believe members of this group are reasonable people that can discuss all these issues. We have 2 A to protect and feed our families, and if you will protect us from the government if necessary. Some of us might be better at it than others.
I grew up on our farm with the tough chore of seeing my animals put in the freezer. I became a vegetarian for a while to try and understand what I was doing. Self examination is the key to understand who we are. I understand what it takes to put food on the table. Not many in our country have any idea of where a hamburger or chicken nugget comes from. If I do shoot a quail or pheasant or rabbit, it will be taken home and dressed and cooked.
I have a problem when I see a deer struggling with an arrow stuck out of its side. That sport bothers me. I know people who do it. I may disagree with them. I pray it doesn't happen often.
In the mean time my initial question was about shooting clay pigeons - I have no problem with that. I'll want to learn to become better. I want to have conversations to understand. Our disagreements help us determine who each off us are.
And our self examination will make us better.
|