Harvesting an elk is a life changing event. Sure, it’s tough. The days are grueling and the miles seem to get longer, but the reward after a successful hunt is what brings hunters back to the woods every fall.
After the hard work is done and the meat is back at camp it’s time to reflect and enjoy the spoils of your hard work. While often overlooked, post-hunt essentials can make your trip that much more enjoyable.
Reliving the stories from a hunt goes hand in hand with a nice glass of whisky. Since ice is a rarity in the backcountry, it’s important to have something easy to sip. Pendleton Midnight is a smooth sipping whisky with a complex flavor that shines when served neat. While your tales from the hunt may grow, your camp will have a memorable time thinking about their accomplishments.
After eating freeze-dried meals for days, enjoying some fresh meat is a must. If you find yourself cooking up some backstrap Pendleton Original doubles as a great way to add some flavor to fireside meals. This whisky sips well with notes of fall fruits and a hint of spice. Combine it with a little brown sugar or honey and it makes a savory glaze. The balance between sweet and smokey is made for backcountry cooking, resulting in an easy meal your buddies won’t stop talking about.
2. White Duck Outdoors Log Carrier
A fire in the elk woods can go a long way for cooking, warmth, and some good laughs. Log carriers like the White Duck Outdoors Canvas Firewood Log Carriers lessen the burden of collecting wood. With little effort you can carry plenty of wood to stoke a fire for multiple days. Folded down they take up minimal space, crucial for when space comes at a premium.
When packing out fresh meat, keeping the bugs at bay is often overlooked. The Thermacell EX90 offers a 20-foot shield from insects, keeping your meat safe. A bug free camp goes a long way when celebrating with your crew.
What good is a bottle of whisky without something to sip it out of? The Yeti Lowball is a great all-around camp addition for coffee, water, and some spirits. It’s insulated and compact compared to other options. You’d be surprised how often you find yourself reaching for an actual cup in the backcountry.
As the temperature drops back at camp, keep yourself warm with the Filson Mackinaw Cruiser jacket. Mackinaw Wool is extremely durable and provides insulation to combat rough winds and frigid temperatures. This garment was originally patented in 1914 and is a jacket that hunters have depended on for over a century.