Why Do You Hunt - Hunt Fair Chase

As hunters, we all will inevitably be put in a position to explain, either in person or online, why we hunt. Sometimes this will be in response to someone who is simply curious. Other times we could be confronted by someone who has already made up his or her mind that they oppose hunting in general, or some form of it, and is just interested in winning an argument. How we respond individually and collectively will have a significant influence on how we, and hunting in general, are viewed and then accepted or rejected.

So, how do you answer? 

First, know your audience. Most of us can tell if someone is looking for an argument. In that case, you are not going to change their minds over a truthful and sincere response. Sometimes, the best play is to not play at all. If this is the case, look for a way out of the situation by changing the subject to the weather or sports. Others who are sincere in their interest are simply curious. Neither person should be considered the enemy. If we immediately jump to the defensive, things typically don’t go well from there. It is always a good idea to be prepared and understand who you are talking to.

Second, be honest, not just truthful. Most hunters know that hunting is a significant mechanism for conservation and game management. And yet, is game management the reason you get up at 4 a.m., put on a pack, and hike into the cold darkness?  It’s not likely conservation convincing you to pull on frozen boots when the alarm goes off. While it is true that conservation and wildlife management are funded by hunter dollars, paying into this system is a benefit from hunting, not why we hunt.

Defending hunting by citing its conservation funding can backfire, particularly with those who view it as an expensive way to satisfy ego through killing. Conservation funding is part of hunting's broader story—one worth sharing with those willing to listen. But when someone asks why you hunt, the answer should come from personal experience rather than statistics.

Because Freedom

The truth is, there are many reasons why we hunt. One that should resonate with everyone is freedom. There is nothing more personal than freedom, and everyone understands what freedom means—or at least they should. The freedom to hunt is a privilege denied to many around the world. Just as healthy wildlife populations signal a thriving ecosystem, the right to hunt reflects a society's commitment to public access and natural resources. This democratic approach to wildlife management is distinctly American.

The hunter can choose to be as free as they can be in this fast-paced, tech-dependent society we have created. Free not because we abandon civilized codes and restraints when we go afield, but free because we can transport out of and beyond the day-to-day and immerse ourselves into a quieter, deeper, wilder, and older world from whence we came.

The next time you’re in hunting camp, watch your companions share stories and laughter after a successful day afield. Chances are you will realize that we share a common bond, one of freedom.  Freedom has always driven humanity's greatest journeys—from crossing oceans for a new life to building nations to fighting for equality. The next time someone asks why you hunt, consider sharing your thoughts about the freedom it provides. Chances are you will have plenty to talk about.