I just stumbled upon this thread this morning, and I have to applaud @japantiger for fact-based, rational responses to some pretty stinging criticisms. The lack of civility on tough topics is rampant, and it is always refreshing when folks genuinely want to understand why somebody does something that they instinctually don't agree with. Not saying that happened in this case though :-)
I have only started hunting western states over the past 3 seasons in Oregon and Washington after about a decade in tree stands in AL. Branching out to pronghorn in Montana this coming season, and currently planning my first elk hunt in 2024. I am extremely grateful for the hunters that came before me that are largely responsible for still having sustainable populations of these animals in the wild during the modern era.
Stay safe out there and thanks for being a great example of how to handle yourself in a tough conversation.