SECTION TWO
W H AT H A S B E CO M E O F U S
by Gretchen Steele
PHOTO COURTESY OF
I’ve had this feeling for some time now – sort of
creeping up on me that the face of the outdoor world
is changing. Perhaps it’s due to technology, perhaps it’s
due to social media, perhaps it’s due to the fact that
the outdoors and all its associated activities are now an
“industry”. Whatever the cause, what I’ve been seeing
of late is more than a bit saddening.
Somehow, it seems so many are on a quest to be the
next big star, the next big name and will stop at very
little to get there. Daily in my news feeds, social media
feeds, etc. I see articles and posts that yet another
“Name in the industry”, or highly thought of competi-
tor in various tournament and competition circuits has
been found to be either cheating or outright violating
fish and game laws, or both. Often it seems during the
filming/recording of some sort of show or advertise-
ment.
During the “big” tournaments and competitions poly-
graphs are required, marshals, referees, and in general
folks who simply are part of the competition are needed
to keep a watchful eye over everyone in hopes to keep
everyone following the rules and staying legal.
How is it we have devolved into such a group of people
that this is required? Money and fame would be the
first answer that pops into my head.
When money and the perception of fame enter the
equation, it seems that ethics have flown out. Anything
to get the sponsor, the trophy, the contract, or the foot-
age – however it can be achieved.
BUT – It’s not just those in the competitions and
tournaments. In the past six months, I have seen more
terrible behavior by people in the outdoors than ever.
Average Joe folks who exhibit an utter disregard for fish
and wildlife laws, utter disregard for any regulations,
no trespassing signs, all with the ME, ME, ME , MINE,
MINE, MINE, mentality. A sense of entitlement and
rudeness that segues into aggressive behavior among
users that is absolutely dumbfounding.
Many of these folks are relatively new to outdoor
activities. Is it a lack of education that perpetuates
this behavior? In some cases, perhaps. But I think the
problem runs deeper and this may sadly reflect a larger
societal issue in general.
Is it that more people are finding enjoyment in the out-
doors? That would be a good thing – but only if they
understand the basic ethics and principals of outdoor
behavior. It is up to us as veteran ethical sportsmen
and women to lead by example and educate new folks.
Simply taking them out to explore, hunt, fish etc. is not
enough – we must instill in them a love and respect for
the outdoors as well as acceptable behavior.
Volume 01 No. 02 | 2017