I know we have several new hunters in here every year.....and some who've never field dressed and butchered a deer.
If you're in one of the aforementioned groups.....there's no shame in asking a friend who has one down to call you to help out and learn. There are also numerous videos available on the net for sale and for free.
I could think of few things MORE unethical than having meat spoil.....because a hunter didn't know what he was doing (once he had a deer down) and couldn't get in touch with someone to help him in time.
If you live within a reasonable distance of me.....send me a PM. I'll either call you when I get one down....or you can call me when you or one of your friends does. I'll be glad to come to you. Most here are probably close to a fellow HNI'er....and if you need help....these guys are really good about doing so.
Know what you're gonna do BEFORE you have one down. It's only right. Know the condition your meat must be in (quartered? skinned?) to be accepted by your butcher/processor. Know who your taxidermist is.....where he lives......etc...before the time comes when time is NOT on your side.
I say if it's a doe mount it!!!!
I remember 30 years ago shooting my first and looking down at it and wondering what the heck I was gonna do. At that time I had never even seen a deer field dressed. I was lucky though when some guy walked up and did the deed for me.
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Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.
I was in that boat not too long ago. I was fortunate enough to be able to call my brother in law. He came out to the woods and gave me step by step instructions. He wouldn't help drag it or dress it. It was a lesson day for me. I'm grateful he made me do it all with his guidance. I too would be happy to show up and help out a novice.
Well I hit one AND found him....NOW what?
