Cost of deer hunting

[z06man]

I know most don't hunt to save money, but I was wondering if there is any real cost savings to hunting. After the hunting license, deer tag and having it processed, would a hunter come out ahead or behind vs. buying meat at the store?

 

[264Magnum]

After all expenses? Probably way behind.

 

[Oklahomabassin]

I bought a lifetime license in 94. That cost is long covered. I have yet to lease any land. I spend very few dollars on processing, I cut up my own meat and I have to buy packaging material. I don't really classify my gun as an expense of the hunt. I look at it as more of a wash. I don't do it to save money but its a hobby. Any entertainment is going to cost a little money.

 

[264Magnum]

I bought a lifetime license in 94. That cost is long covered. I have yet to lease any land. I spend very few dollars on processing, I cut up my own meat and I have to buy packaging material. I don't really classify my gun as an expense of the hunt. I look at it as more of a wash. I don't do it to save money but its a hobby. Any entertainment is going to cost a little money.

But that isn't typical of most hunters.

 

[Oklahomabassin]

But that isn't typical of most hunters.

Well you are right, but I won't get in to that. I will say that I think anybody to be called a hunter should at least process there own game a few times.

 

[264Magnum]

And real hunters don't use guides either, blah blah blah...

 

[Oklahomabassin]

And real hunters don't use guides either, blah blah blah...

Yep, lol just for you. LOL

 

[264Magnum]

Man, I hate having to use a guide. I feel like a traitor.

 

[JWE]

Well you are right, but I won't get in to that. I will say that I think anybody to be called a hunter should at least process there own game a few times.

Agreed. Try coming back from NM and butchering 3 cow elk, that are about 300lbs apiece. That was a looong 5 days

 

[264Magnum]

Agreed. Try coming back from NM and butchering 3 cow elk, that are about 300lbs apiece. That was a looong 5 days

Butchering and processing are different. I butcher all my dead critters, but take it to get processed. More often than not I just donate the whole thing anyway.