This week starts the beginning of a new month, which has all sorts of festivities. Thanksgiving is celebrated, Black Friday happens, and deer hunting season starts. An estimated 34 percent of Minnesotans hunt or fish which leads to our state having the second highest percentage of hunters.

Approximately one thousand people every year are injured or killed because of hunting mistakes. Always make sure you have the correct licensure and information when it comes to using a new gun.

An estimated 34 percent of Minnesotans hunt or fish which leads to our state having the second highest percentage of hunters. Approximately one thousand people every year are injured or killed because of hunting mistakes.

Gun safety should never be overlooked when it comes to hunting. Guns are not the only weapons to use when hunting though. Throughout the year there are different seasons for different animals, as well as different weapons you can use to hunt down the animals. Deer, duck, and turkey are the most common forms of hunting in Minnesota and the weapons vary from guns to bows and arrows. However, guns are more common with deer and bear hunting while bows are recommended for turkey hunting.

Always make sure you have the correct licensure and information when it comes to using a new gun.

Growing up in Minnesota, many of my friends would go hunting with their families. I loved seeing my friends framed pictures of their deer and other game that they have caught with their family. For many families hunting is a tradition with unique aspects that vary family to family. Its also a bonding experience between family members. I know families that both hunt for sport as well as those who hunt for sustenance.

Historically, hunting was used purely as a means of survival. All or most of the animal was used and almost nothing was wasted. The meat and blood was used for food, the pelts for warmth and clothing, and the bones were used for other materials and tools. Now in modern times those who still hunt for sustenance throw away different parts of the animal that seem undesirable.  It wasn’t until modern times when hunting became a sport.

Today, those who hunt for sport tend to show off their kill and enter contests. There are contests throughout the country that pay up to thousands of dollars for the first few places. This brings the appeal of contest hunting to many people.

When it comes to hunting, people are either for or against it. Personally, I am all for hunting as long as you are being careful and are staying within state regulations. However there are valid arguments for both sides. One of the biggest issues people have with hunting is the use of guns. Guns are dangerous, and people associate guns with death, pain, and harm, which deem them socially unacceptable in modern society. However, it is not the gun that harms others, it’s the person. People have been committing crimes for thousands of years prior to when the gun was invented.

However, it is not the gun that harms others, it’s the person.

Having family traditions and hobbies is very important. They can help you de-stress and get away from reality for a little bit. As the deer hunting opener gets closer, remember to follow the laws associated for hunting. This can be the difference between life and death. Enjoy your hunting season and whether you hunt or not enjoy a beautiful Minnesotan November.