You are not alone. There are ample biological and ethical grounds for prohibiting hunting over bait. But my opinion is of little consequence. Only a few key facts matter at this point. One fact is that the special interest forces in Alabama are now aligned to legalize baiting. Power brokers finally have enablers in key positions to make it happen. Another fact is that baiting opens Pandora's Box. With it comes breeder pens, tagged bucks sold by the B&C inch, and a perceived commoditizing of deer. And this leads to the most sobering fact. That is, the future of hunting will be decided by the non-hunting public. Public support of hunting is highest when game is taken for food, and it is lowest when game is taken for "sport" or "trophy" or "canned hunts." If non-hunters reach a tipping point where they no longer support hunting, it will be taken from us. We should all let that soak in. Be careful what you ask for.
Jerry
Don't agree with you on the ethical grounds. That said, you are very much educated on the biological ramifications. Can you expound on the biological grounds for prohibiting baiting? I am for less regulations, but not to the detriment of the health of any animal population. Would love to hear concrete rationale (studies) that show it to be a detriment. And I am not out to prove you wrong. I sincerely want to know.
