Quote from: Dhamilton1 on March 20, 2022, 10:48:43 AM
Being new to turkey hunting (2nd serious season), I don't know about the days of over abundant turkey populations and seeing huge flocks in fields around my area.
With that said, I've seen a few YouTube videos and podcasts discussing declining turkey numbers.
With this being a site for hardcore turkey hunters and individuals who hold a deep passion for this bird, this is my question and/or discussion/debate.
With rising gas prices, if you lived in an area with declining turkey numbers and could not afford to travel to areas with solid numbers; could you and/or would you refrain from hunting and/or be very selective on harvesting one bird to help the declining numbers. (This would be the ethics part of my post).
I also understand that there are many other factors that contribute to declining numbers (predators, food sources, habitat, etc.)
Just a thought I had and interested in others perspective on the topic.
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Guess I will be the the one to go against the grain on this thread. I would be extremely weary when hearing about these declining numbers and the discussions surrounding them. I will continue to kill while the getting is good, I don't want to bring a camera or watch them walk away or whatever. Like the Grim Reaper, I have gotten my taste for blood and kill every chance I get as long as I'm able to do so.
As a second year turkey hunter please recognize turkey populations go through peaks and valleys like every other species. Don't be shocked to see harvest numbers change by 5k birds yearly in any given state on an annual basis. I am no biologist but I'm sure many would agree this is completely normal (although a few are pushing their theories on social media and are developing a cult following from hunters, BUT REMEMBER they are theories) , I don't believe residents should be advocating for limited seasons and reduced bag limits *cough cough Ohio cough*. From looking at the data there they experienced a peak around 2017 or 2018 and have been in a valley the last season or two. No cause for panic or alarm yet hunters begged their state game agency to reduce bag limit.
Look no further than Arkansas, the first state to severely limit their season about what? a decade ago? How has it helped the population? None what so ever. No amount of bleeding hearts, turkey stamps sold, season dates restricted etc. has changed it for the better. Don't go down that road!
Just remember, when the government takes an opportunity away from you whether it be an extra spring gobbler or whatever else it is hard to gain that right/ privilege back.
That being said, have fun don't sweat it your still living in the golden days of turkey hunting despite what some old timer, a biologist turned social media influencer, or whoever else may lead you to believe.
