Field to Freezer

Free range and organic meals without a trip to Whole Foods? We have evolved from a class of hunters and gatherers, and now live in little boxes on the hillside far away from the game fields. But harvesting your own game in today’s world is not out of the realm of possibility. It does take considerable time, planning and energy to get to the hunt. But when you do, and you have a successful hunt, have a plan and know the rules to get the meat back to the fire.

Birded Traveler

Every state has different rules for transporting game birds. Outfitters will help you get your game processed and shipped. Do-it-yourself trips require some more thought. For instance, if you’re hunting pheasants in South Dakota you need to be within your bird limits, have sex identifiable, and have them packaged in twos. The South Dakota Hunting and Trapping Handbook is a great resource for regulations.

If you’re going on a duck hunt in Louisiana, it is required that you are able to identify the species and the sex of your birds. “Either a fully feathered head or wing remain attached.” Additionally you need to have your shipment countable.

If you’re on a dove hunt in Texas, Parks and Wildlife just wants to know how many birds you have.

Big Game Warrior

If you’re headed to the woods to chase big game, there’s a bit more involved. Your tagged harvest will have to be hung, butchered, and transported at considerable more cost. Understand how to quarter your game in the field, have game bags and know where you will take it for processing. Once it’s frozen, shipping won’t be a problem, just have some good insulated boxes.

Shipping and/or Coolers

Once you have your meat frozen, get it home and keep it cold. The most efficient way to do this is sending it overnight. All major carriers will be able to help. Keep in mind the aspect of dimensional shipping. That is to say, your box should be as small as possible while still fitting your game.

If it will be in transport for more than a couple of days, have high quality coolers. There are so many brands of ultra-insulated products available that it’s hard to choose. We like the brands that are made in America. Orion Coolers has great features and are bear-proof. You’ll have no problem keeping ice solid while you’re in a backcountry camp, and then getting your meat home safely.

Proxy Statement

If you’re not in possession of your meat while it is in transport, fill out a proxy statement to be safe. Essentially, it is a signed letter complete with your name and license number giving someone else permission to handle your harvest. Most states have a proxy form in their game regulations booklets or online.

There is nothing better than fresh game from the field. Which ever trip you choose, filling your freezer is something every hunter wants to do. After you do, you will take great pride knowing what you harvested will be feeding your family through the winter.