North Dakota’s deer season is well underway, and Bismarck residents are already seeing a surge of hunters bringing home their harvests. Last year more than 20,000 deer were harvested across the state, a testament to the popularity of the tradition among families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cool the meat fast, says local processor

Brayden Craft, co‑owner of Butcher Block Meats, a Bismarck‑based processing shop, cautions hunters to act quickly once a deer is taken. “The key is to get the meat cool as soon as possible and let air circulate around it,” Craft explained. “That prevents bacterial growth and preserves the flavor that families look forward to at the dinner table.”

Craft recommends hanging the carcass in a shaded, well‑ventilated area or using a clean cooler with ice packs if the weather is warm. He notes that early‑season temperatures can rise unexpectedly, making rapid cooling even more critical.

Field‑dressing before transport

Another essential step, according to Craft, is field‑dressing the animal before bringing it to the shop. “Removing the internal organs on site reduces the heat buildup inside the body,” he said. “It also makes transport easier and safer for everyone involved.” While the meat can be skinned or left with the hide intact, the priority is to keep the flesh clean and cool.

Craft’s shop offers both full processing and custom cuts, allowing hunters to choose how they want their meat prepared for the family table. He emphasizes that proper handling not only protects health but also honors the animal by ensuring none of the hard‑earned harvest goes to waste.

Supporting families and tradition

Deer hunting remains a cornerstone of many North Dakota families, blending outdoor skill with a commitment to providing wholesome protein. By following Craft’s advice, hunters can safeguard the health of their loved ones while preserving a time‑honored tradition that strengthens community bonds.

For more detailed guidance on safe meat handling, butchers and local extension agents are available to answer questions throughout the season. The combination of responsible hunting practices and local processing expertise helps keep North Dakota’s hunting heritage strong and sustainable.

Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.