I too have wrestled with this one. Quail hunting was always my main interest. Then the wild quail disappeared and I began "hunting" released birds for the dog's sake. In my line of work it was usual to be invited on several "Plantation" released bird outings every year.
I gave that up a few years ago because I felt my balance and condition had eroded to the point I did not want to endanger my friends with my constant trip and falls (and I found it embarrassing). I continued hunting alone for wild birds only until my last bird dog Willy the Wirehair died last December.
I still love a dove shoot and keep right on deer hunting even though I rarely shoot due to waiting for a big one. I also like to duck hunt but there's little of it where I live and the politicians and their plague have closed down my annual trips to Canada.
I guess I'll have to say I'm still in the game and probably will always be to whatever extent I'm able. The killing hasn't really become an issue with me at all...Geo
