I completely disagree with the insane cost of tags these days. Increasing tag costs and license fees is a punitive measure, in my opinion. If game management or resident overcrowding complaints are the issue being addressed, then a better solution is to reduce tags for NR's or manage the game better. Also, how about Increasing predator management efforts if the game numbers are dwindling. You can even let hunters pay for that right, assuming it is a reasonable and non-exclusionary fee (not what is described above). These thoughts represent solutions that are not a punishment to the population paying for the resource, already.
As a community, hunters almost pay a separate income tax in trying to maintain points and or apply for tags these days, and yet, western states only increase the burden on hunters, and somehow fail to allocate taxes that we already pay to offset these absurd costs. I am totally aware of all the obvious arguments and historic whining on this issue, so I don't need any reminders on the topic. We, as a community, really need to push back against these increases and hold our public officials accountable. If we don't, what kid is going to be able to afford to hunt in the future? Or have the opportunity??
Additionally, the whining from residents about non-resident hunters on these forums needs to stop. It is such a tired argument. Provide a solution. Encourage your legislature to limit NR tags, if that is your legitimate concern and or provide a viable solution. The fallback position of "just increase costs" is infuriating, and a complete cop out. Weak policy solutions like that will lead to the demise of our community.
