YES! I am a trophy hunter when the opportunity exists. Generally, the trophy class animal represents the smartest, most difficult, and challenging of the species to hunt, with an attractive appearance. The meat is consumed by myself, or someone that has great appreciation for the sustenance it provides. I will mount the trophy as a momento of the experience. I must say that "trophy" may not always fit the classic definition. My greatest trophy was my first young whitetail buck with a small basket rack that at the age of 16, was scouted and successfully shot at 30 yards with a 50 cal round ball muzzloader made from a kit. The crude plaque/antlers still hangs on the wall of my den.....I was floating on air for weeks and will never forget the hunt. In terms of the preservation of wildlife, I have likely contributed substantially more in efforts and money during my lifetime then any 1000+ anti-hunters will, assuring the precious resource for future generations. ALL wildlife dies by either violence and/or starvation. The hunter has always been a "natural" predator that provides an honorable and merciful climax. I'll willingly offer the time to explain my views to the youth, and those "genuinely" interested in understanding why or how I hunt....and with great distain, ignore the rest. This country and its laws and views on hunting has changed quite a bit since my early hunting days, and not necessarily for the better. It is quite possible that "popular ignorance" may present a real threat to future hunters just as it can to so many of the founding principals that have made this country unique. This situation has always existed, but common sense and intelligence has so far prevailed. Yet, by maintaining a basic philosophical position, and adapting to a changing world, to this day I have personally been able to achieve the same level of satisfaction, interest, and challenge with my hunting today as I did in the 1960's. This "confirms" that my belief system, which I'm sure is held by many, is valid. I will remain steadfast on this position till they stick me in the ground.