In the late 1970's Dr. Robert Jackson and Dr. Robert Norton of the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse conducted a study of over 1,000 hunters. Their study suggest that hunters pass through five distinct stages over their hunting lives.
1. Shooter Stage
During this stage hunters simply want to do a lot of shooting, whether it be doves, ducks, squirrels or even deer. They want to test their shooting abilities, as well as their rifle or shotgun. Note that most of these hunters are young, but not always. Many new hunters these days are adult men and women.
2. Limiting-Out Stage
Hunters at this stage still enjoy shooting a lot, but now the number of birds or animals taken becomes important as well. This stage of hunters enjoy "limiting-out" or "filling their tag."
3. Trophy Stage
Emphasis shifts from quantity to quality. Hunters at this stage enjoy being selective in taking game, such as a duck hunters who shoots only greenheads, or a deer hunter who takes only mature bucks. These hunters often travel long distances to hunt trophy animals.
4. Method Stage
For this hunter, taking game is still important, but more important is how the game is taken. True satisfaction comes from the method used to take the game, such as with a bow or muzzleloader. The hunter may practice hunting skills such as calling or mastering the use of decoys. In the case of a deer hunter, may even choose to target one specific animal.
5. Sportsman Stage
After many years of outdoor experience the hunter begins to place the emphasis on the total hunting experience, such as just being outdoors, enjoying the company of family or friends and enjoy natures beauty. These hunters may get involved with non-profit conservation organizations such as NDA, NWTF or Ducks Unlimited and look for ways to give back to the sport of hunting. They often turn to mentoring other younger hunters for ultimate satisfaction.
It's important to note the study suggest that not all hunters go through all of these stages, or in this particular order. The study also found that it's possible for hunters to be at different stages with different species of game that they may pursue.
What stage do you find yourself in?
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