Beyond Fair Chase: The Ethic and Tradition of Hunting

As someone new to hunting I found this text very appealing and it is my hope that all hunters will consider this books message. It is a quick read and I feel it contains the views of any responsible hunter. It is my opinion that this text should be required reading before anyone is eligible to receive a hunting license. If you are an experienced hunter these should already be your ethics, but it never hurts to have a reminder. It is for the sake of wildlife and the future of hunting that I recommend this book.

As a certified Hunter Safety Instructor, I have found the BEYOND FAIR CHASE states what we are trying to teach in an easy to understand way. We know that every new hunter has an emotional feeling the first time they kill a living animal and watch it die. Some can never hunt again. This book helps one to understand the part they are playing in wildlife management and how to do it in an ethical manner.

I read this book when first came out, and I've referred constantly to my copy ever since. I've given away several copies as gifts, and referred to my copy when I've been reaching for a phrase or concept. This is an excellent book for hunters and nonhunters, and for hunters who are trying to communicate to nonhunters. Posewitz does not confuse off-road access with the traditions and skills of hunting, which often happens when the lines for the hunter/nonhunter use of the outdoors is being drawn up. Posewitz is a must-read for all beginning hunters of any age, and for anyone who is trying to teach someone else to hunt.

This book, albeit a slim volume is to be valued by veteran hunters and those new to the sport. The real emphasis is on the ethics of hunting well. Additional topics covered are well addressed. This book has been used in many state-sponsored hunter education courses, after having read it you will understand why. The author, who has impecible credentials as a wildlife biologist and hunter himself makes a valid case for continuing our national right to hunt.

Posewitz has set down a reasoned approach to ethics and points the way for us all, novice or veteran hunter. This is a very short book, and can be read by the novice in a short time. Rather than give us long lists of rules, Posewitz has chosen to let our conscience guide us by explaining the basics. Well written, with several stories that illustrate differing attitudes. If we are to preserve wildlife, it will be the hunter who pays - as it has been for 100 years. This book deals with issues of respect, reverence and use of game animals. More importantly, it does so in the right tone, not preachy, just informative.