The fall is often one of the busiest times of the year for wild game processors. Many are not only processing wild game, but also preparing for the hectic rush of the holiday season that is not far behind. While it may be one of the busiest times of the year, it can also be one of the most profitable.
A profitable wild game season goes a long way in sustaining a business for the year. There are a number of factors that come into play that can affect the success and profitability of wild game season in a state, such as the population of animals in an area. Illnesses like chronic wasting disease or blue tongue are also a cause for concern with wild game. How many hunters are buying licenses? Is the weather favorable for decent hunting, or is it miserable and keeping people out of the field? These are only a few of the issues that can affect the amount of game product that arrives through plant doors to be processed. With these issues being out of the processor’s control, it is imperative to try and make each animal product as profitable as possible. It is a well-known fact that the best profit comes from further processed game meat. The greatest profit is not made in skinning, cutting and wrapping, but rather in turning that wild game meat into processed products using the best sausage, stick, or jerky recipes.