Into the Outdoors: Restrictions / Limits

Normally, I don’t like to rant in this column, but, every now and then, things tend to build up to the point where a rant is called for. This is one of those times.

I have, from time to time been criticized for my criticism of restricted fishing, especially artificial lures only zones on trout streams. Why are those necessary? Does using artificials somehow place the angler above others. Bait anglers pay for licenses, too, yet there no bait fishing only zones. While I have, and still do use artificial lures, I am primarily a bait fisherman, and I am not the least bit ashamed of it. There is something pleasantly nostalgic about heading out with a bucket of minnows and a container of worms. A bobber adds to the feeling, especially when fishing for panfish. To each his or her own seems Ike the best policy, without elitist restrictions.

I don’t hunt coyotes, foxes or anything else I am not going to eat. That said, I have no quarrel with those who do. I do, however, have a problem with organized coyote hunts, where in you win a prize for the most coyotes killed in a certain amount of time. This is the sort of thing that gives hunters and hunting a bad name.

I know that I have mentioned this many times before , but a rant would just not be complete without it. That would be my belief that senior hunters should be exempt from antler restrictions. For the record, I am opposed to antler restrictions in general. I think that is the biggest farce ever foisted onto hunters. If we must have them, though, there should be a measure of fairness in their enforcement. Mentored youth, who may never buy a license, are exempt. So are junior hunters. Let’s compare juniors and seniors. Juniors have better eyesight, better hearing, better mobility and better stamina. Yet, they are exempt and seniors are not. Seniors paid for licenses for years. That should be good for something.

Squirrel season is almost here. That will bring out the debate about what gun should be used for squirrel hunting. Some argue that the 22 rifle is the only sporting choice. Others favor the shotgun. Ever since I turned twelve, I have hunted squirrel with the twenty gauge Mossberg bolt action I got for Christmas when I was ten. I got my first squirrel with it, and if I haven’t already, plan to get my last with it.

If I had to state the main point of this rant, it would be to do your thing and let others do theirs in peace. Have fun. That is, after all, what the outdoor sports are all about.

On a happier note, according to the forecasts, the brutal heat might be over. That will make all outdoor activities more pleasant. I’m anxious to get to my favorite panfish hole and nab some fresh filets. I can almost smell them frying and taste their goodness already. Yum, Yum!

In the photo, a baby hummingbird is feeding on a berry out of a person’s hand. I found it on the Internet and thought it was cute enough to share.

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Email: salmonangler1@gmail.com