Hunting

High fence hunting

Written by Chris Alan

For thousands of years, humans have engaged in hunting as a way of life. It is a practice that requires skill, patience, and dedication. Hunting can be done in various ways, from traditional hunting methods like tracking and stalking to more modern techniques like using firearms and hunting blinds. However, in recent years, high fence hunting has gained popularity among hunters.

High fence hunting, also known as game ranching, is a type of hunting where animals are confined within a high fence or enclosure. The size of the enclosure can vary, but it is usually several hundred to several thousand acres. This type of hunting has its controversies, with some people arguing that it is not a true form of hunting, while others believe it is a legitimate way to enjoy the sport. In this content, we will discuss high fence hunting in detail, including its history, types of animals that can be hunted, hunting methods, benefits and drawbacks, and controversies.

History of High Fence Hunting

The practice of high fence hunting has been around for centuries. It started with the British aristocrats who enclosed their hunting grounds to preserve game animals for themselves. In the United States, high fence hunting has its roots in the early 20th century when large ranches were established in Texas and other western states. These ranches were primarily used for cattle and sheep farming, but they also offered hunting opportunities for wealthy individuals.

In the 1950s, game ranching became a popular business in Texas, and the practice of high fence hunting started to gain traction. The first high fence hunting preserve was established in Texas in the 1960s, and it quickly became a booming industry. Today, high fence hunting is a multi-million dollar industry in the United States, with thousands of hunting preserves located across the country.

Types of Animals That Can be Hunted

High fence hunting offers the opportunity to hunt a variety of animals that may not be available in the wild. The most common animals hunted in high fence hunting include deer, elk, bison, wild boar, and exotic game like African antelope, zebras, and ostriches.

Hunting Methods

Hunting in a high fence environment is different from hunting in the wild. Because the animals are confined to a certain area, hunters can predict where they will be and when. This makes high fence hunting easier and less time-consuming than traditional hunting.

There are several methods used in high fence hunting, including:

  1. Spot and Stalk – This is the most common method of high fence hunting. It involves finding a good vantage point and scanning the area for the target animal. Once spotted, the hunter will move in for the kill.

  2. Hunting Blinds – Hunting blinds are stationary structures that are used to conceal the hunter from the animals. They can be placed in strategic locations around the enclosure, providing a good vantage point for the hunter.

  3. Safari-Style Hunting – Safari-style hunting is a popular method of high fence hunting for exotic games. This method involves driving around the enclosure in a vehicle, searching for the target animal. Once spotted, the hunter will get out of the vehicle and take the shot.

Ethics of High Fence Hunting

High fence hunting is a controversial topic, and there are arguments on both sides. Supporters of high fence hunting argue that it provides a safe and controlled environment for hunting, and it helps to preserve animal populations. They also claim that high fence hunting is more ethical than free-range hunting because it reduces the chances of injuring or killing non-target animals.

Opponents of high fence hunting argue that it is not a fair chase and that it goes against the principles of hunting. They believe that high fence hunting is unethical because it deprives animals of their natural habitat and behaviors and is not a true test of hunting skills. They also argue that high fence hunting leads to the overbreeding of animals, which can cause health problems and genetic defects.

Benefits of High Fence Hunting

High fence hunting has several benefits, including:

  • Controlled Environment: High fence hunting provides a controlled environment for hunting, which reduces the chances of accidents and injuries.

  • Animal Management: High fence hunting allows for the management and conservation of animal populations, which helps to preserve species and prevent overhunting.

  • Economic Benefits: High fence hunting is a multi-million dollar industry that generates significant revenue for rural communities and supports local businesses.

  • Hunting Opportunities: For those who might not have access to public areas or private hunting leases, high fence hunting offers possibilities for hunting.

Drawbacks of High Fence Hunting

High fence hunting also has some drawbacks, including:

  • Ethical Concerns: High fence hunting is often criticized for being unethical and unfair to animals, and it goes against the principles of hunting.

  • Lack of Challenge: High fence hunting is often less challenging than free-range hunting because animals are enclosed within a defined area.

  • Overbreeding: High fence hunting can lead to the overbreeding of animals, which can cause health problems and genetic defects.

  • Negative Perception: High fence hunting has a negative perception among many people, including non-hunters and some hunters.

Conclusion

High fence hunting is a controversial topic, and there are valid arguments on both sides. While high fence hunting provides a controlled environment for hunting, it is often criticized for being unethical and depriving animals of their natural habitat and behaviors. 

However, high fence hunting also has economic benefits and provides hunting opportunities for people who may not have access to public lands or private hunting leases. In the end, the choice to take part in high fence hunting is a personal one, and individuals must consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.

About the author

Chris Alan

Leave a Comment