Back to Field to Fork

Butcher Guide

Field Dressing and Processing

Safety First

Always wear gloves when field dressing game. In CWD zones, avoid contact with brain and spinal tissue.

1Field Dressing

Field dressing should be done ASAP after harvest.

  • Position deer on its back
  • Make shallow cut from sternum to pelvis
  • Remove all internal organs

2Skinning

Skinning is easier while animal is still warm.

  • Hang by hind legs
  • Cut around each leg below knee
  • Work hide away using fist

3Quartering

Break down into manageable pieces.

  • Remove front shoulders
  • Remove backstraps and tenderloins
  • Cut hindquarters at ball joint

4Storage

Proper aging improves tenderness.

  • Age meat at 34-38F for 7-14 days
  • Vacuum seal for freezer
Pro Tip:

Frozen venison lasts up to a year.