Over the years I've come across people who hunt with traditional muzzleloaders but are rarely successful. They often dismiss or ridicule other successful hunters using the same type of weapons. They often say something like "I get into the spirit of traditional muzzleloading" or "I immerse myself in the experience" to explain their lack of success. It also implies that somehow the successful hunter cheated.
I've never understood that mindset. If they were honest with themselves about "getting into the spirit" or "immersing themselves" they would realize that if they weren't successful, they wouldn't eat. If they're truly trying to emulate a longhunter or mountain man they need to realize that you can't stop at the store on the way home and grab a steak.
Maybe start the season with a little jerky, some flour and coffee beans. No other food can be consumed. If you're not successful before its gone you go hungry. What kind of motivation would that provide to become a better hunter? That would truly be getting into the spirit of the hunt!
Don't get me wrong. I've often had unsuccessful hunts and have enjoyed many seasons when I finished with only tag soup. I just can't understand the mindset of not being happy for the success of other hunters even when I'm unsuccessful. They also chose to accept the challenge of hunting with traditional muzzleloaders. Just because we don't do things exactly the same doesn't diminish their success.
Sorry for the rant. I'm just trying to understand that mentality. Has anyone else come across people like this? :hmm:
I've never understood that mindset. If they were honest with themselves about "getting into the spirit" or "immersing themselves" they would realize that if they weren't successful, they wouldn't eat. If they're truly trying to emulate a longhunter or mountain man they need to realize that you can't stop at the store on the way home and grab a steak.
Maybe start the season with a little jerky, some flour and coffee beans. No other food can be consumed. If you're not successful before its gone you go hungry. What kind of motivation would that provide to become a better hunter? That would truly be getting into the spirit of the hunt!
Don't get me wrong. I've often had unsuccessful hunts and have enjoyed many seasons when I finished with only tag soup. I just can't understand the mindset of not being happy for the success of other hunters even when I'm unsuccessful. They also chose to accept the challenge of hunting with traditional muzzleloaders. Just because we don't do things exactly the same doesn't diminish their success.
Sorry for the rant. I'm just trying to understand that mentality. Has anyone else come across people like this? :hmm: