It’s Time to Respect Our Hunters

Over the last few decades, hunters have been given a bad rap by much of the media and popular culture. The term “hunter” has too often been conflated with unethical practices, like trophy hunting, which overshadow the reality of what hunting means to the average person. But real hunters—the ones who hunt to feed their families, fill their freezers, and deeply respect the process—are a dying breed.

Hunting, at its core, is about more than just the act itself. It’s about passing down traditions that teach respect: for life, for nature, and for the food that sustains us.

There was a time when these values were deeply ingrained in our culture. In fact, there was even a time when gun clubs existed in schools, where students learned firearm safety and responsibility. Back then, guns were seen as tools, not weapons of violence, and there wasn’t even a thought about school shootings. Those programs taught discipline, care, and respect—values that hunting continues to instill in those who take it seriously.

As a hunter myself, I’ve experienced firsthand the roller coaster of emotions that come with the hunt. From the moment I first picked up my bow, the journey began. Hours of practice went into learning how to use it with precision and care. Then came the scouting—the quiet hours spent observing the land and the wildlife, learning their patterns and behaviors. And finally, the hunt itself: the adrenaline of spotting the animal, the weight of taking the shot, and the bittersweet emotions that follow.

Taking the life of a beautiful animal is never easy, nor should it be. It’s a moment that humbles you, that reminds you of the sanctity of life and the responsibility that comes with taking it. What follows is hard, deliberate work: the effort and knowledge required to butcher the animal properly, ensuring nothing is wasted, and then ultimately feeding your family with what you’ve harvested.

This process fosters a respect for food that is difficult to put into words. It’s something that can only be truly understood through experience. Hunting teaches lessons that modern conveniences have erased from daily life. When food comes neatly packaged in plastic at the grocery store, it’s easy to forget what it takes to get it there. And when our children only see us swipe a credit card or tap a phone at checkout, they miss out on understanding the deep connection between nature, effort, and the sustenance it provides.

Hunting is not about taking life lightly—it’s about honoring it. It’s about being part of a tradition that values self-reliance, respect for the natural world, and gratitude for the meals it provides. As a society, we’ve moved away from these teachings, and we’re seeing the consequences. By respecting hunters and what they represent, we can reconnect with those lost values—discipline, care, and respect—not just for life, but for one another.

For the love of the hunt, the land, and the lessons it teaches,
Jordan Kempain
Owner, Kempain Family Outfitters

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What does hunting mean to you? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your perspective.