I'm sure this has been discussed here already but mostly I want to know do you know of anyone not coming or changing their plans in some fashion due to the significant increase in non-rez tags?
I hunt family land west of Stillwater where I have sole control of the hunting on the places and typically have a friend join me for muzzleloader. However, this year it appears that I will be on my own as two of my non-resident friends have both told me they can't justify $710 for what essentially is a few days of hunting and one buck tag. I realize you get 4 or whatever does with it but from their perspective... (yes occasionally they shoot does, but we all know everyone spends the money for antlers)
I can't help but think the legislature, like government often does, did not consider the full consequences of the law before enacting it. Such a sharp increase is likely to be met with a sharp decrease of non-resident hunters which could potentially negatively affect many stakeholders.
Let me also say I believe an increase in licenses fees was absolutely due! However, such a drastic increase in one year could potentially upset the balance of economical factors that go into non-resident hunting.
I'm well aware this post may cause an absolute doo-doo storm so fire away. And please don't forget my original question! Any personal experience with a non-rez already telling Oklahoma "No Thanks!" ?
I hunt family land west of Stillwater where I have sole control of the hunting on the places and typically have a friend join me for muzzleloader. However, this year it appears that I will be on my own as two of my non-resident friends have both told me they can't justify $710 for what essentially is a few days of hunting and one buck tag. I realize you get 4 or whatever does with it but from their perspective... (yes occasionally they shoot does, but we all know everyone spends the money for antlers)
I can't help but think the legislature, like government often does, did not consider the full consequences of the law before enacting it. Such a sharp increase is likely to be met with a sharp decrease of non-resident hunters which could potentially negatively affect many stakeholders.
Let me also say I believe an increase in licenses fees was absolutely due! However, such a drastic increase in one year could potentially upset the balance of economical factors that go into non-resident hunting.
I'm well aware this post may cause an absolute doo-doo storm so fire away. And please don't forget my original question! Any personal experience with a non-rez already telling Oklahoma "No Thanks!" ?
