Canned hunts

I really don't think of "canned hunts" as hunts, more of lambs to a slaughter. At our place, we do offer some commercial hunts, however, the deer and hogs are all natural. They come and go as they please, I have never had any problem with not killing whatever I wish, when I wish to do so. I attribute this to good game management and a plentiful supply of food for the animals.

I have spoken with many people about this subject, most are of the agreement that "canned Hunts" are wrong. This thread has me thinking of the difference between a canned hunt and what I do and offer. I guess the difference can be summed up as in a canned hunt, success is guaranteed. In my hunting and guiding, success is highly probable, but not guaranteed.

Again, I have put a lot of thought into this, if my words don't make sense, or if anyone would like for me to clarify my position, please send me a PM, or if we can keep it all civil, you can ask me here.
 
Some of us here in MO were looking into a "Wild Hog" hunt and we were told of one in Tennesee (about a days drive), but when we started really looking at the operation, it was one of those where the hogs are bred and penned and then turned out in a 20 acre field for 2-5 'hunters' to shoot at will.

We turned it down really quick... not our idea of a hunt. I have no problem using a guide in a strange locale, just due to normal time constraints and not being familiar with an area. But, I don't want a "set up" situation or a guarantee of a kill. Either I'm smarter and sneakier, or I don't deserve the animal.
 
My friend "canned" is NOT entering an area that is stocked. If thats the case, then all of the exotic ranches here in Texas and other states across the US are offering "canned" hunts.

These ranches dont only cater to Geronimo and Daniel Boone with their longbows and flintlocks, they cater to children, the elderly and handicaps as well. Think outside the box.
 
Anymore, except in the dakota's and similar states, pheasant huntig is not what it used to be. Pheasany clubs are growing here at an alarming rate, so be it. I enjoy hunting pheasants and watching the dogs work. When we go, I call ahead and have them release 20-30 birds that morning or the day before. I won't hunt the clubs that are super structured where you can hunt only one field. Anyway, to each his own. There are a lot of peole that are paying money and want to see every bird they pay for. I will pay for the experience, seeing all birds or not. I just got back for a bear hunt in near Boise and only 3 of our 6 got bears, worth every penny (i did not see a bear). I might not hunt in some canned hunts, but I have fished lakes with sticked fish? Is that different? STOCKED fish....that probably applies to a lot of people.

Good hunting everyone.

C
 
What a great topic. This is almost like opening the "what caliber is the best" can of worms. Things to think about:

Hog Hunts: many are in fenced enclosures. All natural hog hunts can be very difficult. I would imagine that the outfitters would go out of business without enclosures. Or anohter twist what about hog dogs. I have been on "All Natural" hog hunts with dogs. The dog will bay the hog and in some cases hold the hog by its nuts. The hunter can then walk up and shoot, spear, or knife the hog.

Deer Hunts: Seems like a bunch of High Fence operations are making good money. These hunts (?) are expensive. Most people cant afford these type hunts (?). If you want to spend your money on this, then go ahead. Its your money. Most of these operations make the real money on artificial insemination. Not the deer hunt (?).

Quail/Pheasant: Any preserve that offers quail,pheasant, chukkar, etc... on a regualr basis is probaly using pen raised birds. Do they fly like wild birds "no". Is this a can hunt?

Bear/Cougar: Again hunting bear and cougar with hounds. Run the bear or cougar til it trees. Walk up to the tree, size up the animal. Shoot to kill.

Bait: Hunting over bait or a food plot. Is this truly natural?


I guess my point is all of these hunts could be considered canned. I love to hunt, and do on a regualar basis. I am in the hunting industry. It comes down to what "you" enjoy, and how you enjoy it. It is not my place to tell you that you are doing it wrong. I can just tell you how I would like to do it. Most people hunt the way it is socially acceptable in their area. Running dogs, spotlighting, foodplots, bait, high fence, etc... they can all be right or wrong. You have to decide for yourself.

I have never hunted over bait, in a fence, or shot a bayed animal. That does not mean it is wrong. It is just wrong for me.

-Chris
 
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