There is no perfect hunting organization out there today; at least in my opinion.  I would like to change that with your help.  I’m looking to create a hunting organization that provides exclusive benefits to its members.  Here is a list of what I was thinking as far as exclusive benefits: member discounts to stores such as Cabela’s, BassPro, etc.  Let’s say 10% discount for each member.  Discounts on all hunting publications such as Petersen’s Hunting & Outdoor Life.  Discounts on TV programming such as Outdoors Channel.  Creating a web community for member only to share hunting information.  Exclusive product testing.  Many other discounts from all hunting suppliers.

What I am thinking is a group of hunters called the Hunting Legion.

We often read in a Cabela’s catalog something “Bone Collector Approved”.  To be honest, that means absolutely nothing to me.  Actually, I am turned off when I see a product with that logo.  Its 2-3 guys that use and put their stamp of approval on a product?  It would be more meaningful to me if I knew a group of real hunters tested and field tested a product marking a stamp of approval, “Hunting Legion Approved”.

Hunting Legion t-shirts, hats, decals, beanie hats, etc would be provided to all members for low costs.  Think of the Legion as sort of a union of hunters.  We partner with groups like the NRA to be sure our voices are heard on Capitol Hill and we continue the privilege to hunt.  We share hunting stories, places to hunt, trade hunts, etc. 

With the combination of exclusive discounts, web, reviews, etc, Hunting Legion could be beneficial to all involved in this great sport.  So pass this along to friends and family, share on Facebook and Twitter, if you are a blogger, feel free to re-post on your blog.  Lets see if this is something we can get moving.  Does something like this interest you or is this a complete waste of time?  Please comment below or email me at fieldjournalsblog@gmail.com.

As most hunters in PA have found out by now, all hunting licenses are purchased through a new online program at various sporting good stores throughout the state.  The process is suppose to be quicker, more efficient, and safer (you don’t have to tell your SSN number anymore).  Today it was anything but that.  My father, brother, and I made the annual trip to Dick’s Sporting Goods to purchase our 2009/2010 hunting license when the nightmare began.

My father went first with his driver’s license.  After 3 attempts, the store rep told my dad the system was showing his name in duplicate.  For some reason, the system had his name, SSN, address, and phone number in there twice.  They responded by saying the only was to resolve the issue was for Dick’s to submit through the PA Game Commission via the telephone.  The rep stated they see 2-3 cases like this a day.  This does not sound too high tech to me.  In any case, I was able to purchase my license and pumped for the upcoming season.