The Butcher Bud Blog

Hunting season is how millions of American families fill their freezers with quality protein. Here is how to prepare your freezer, plan your processing, and make the most of a successful season.

Missouri has one of the largest deer harvests in the country. Here is what hunters need to know about finding a processor in the Show-Me State.

Wisconsin deer season is a cultural institution. Here is how to find and work with a Wisconsin processor before the opener.

Bison is leaner than beef, rich in flavor, and available direct from ranches across the country. Here is how to buy it and cook it right.

Michigan has one of the country's most active deer hunting cultures. Here is a guide to finding and working with a Michigan processor.

The Southeast is home to some of the longest deer seasons and most active hunting cultures in the country. Here is what to know about processing in Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas.

Ohio has one of the largest deer herds in the Midwest. Here is what to know about finding and working with an Ohio deer processor.

Some states have game processing so deeply embedded in their culture that finding a great processor is easy. Here is which states have the most robust processing infrastructure.

Texas and the Southeast have millions of feral hogs. Here is how processing works in states with large hog populations.

Venison sausage is one of the best uses for deer trim. Here is how it is made, what choices you have, and how to get the best result from your processor.

Game processors book up fast during deer season. Here is how to plan ahead so your deer does not sit on ice while you wait.

Finding a processor who handles sheep and lamb takes more work than finding a deer processor. Here is how to locate one near you.

Wild hogs are hunted across the South and increasingly nationwide. Here is how to process the meat and what to expect flavor-wise.

Elk is one of the most rewarding and challenging animals to process. Here is what to expect from field to freezer.

Venison cooks differently than beef. Here is how to handle it so the meat comes out tender and flavorful every time.

Hunters argue about this endlessly. Here is the actual anatomical difference between deer backstrap and tenderloin, and how to cook each one.

Wild game ranches offer hunting experiences on private land with guided or self-guided options. Here is how to find one and what to expect.

First time taking a deer to a processor? Here is exactly what happens from drop-off to pickup and how to get the most out of your harvest.

After a successful hunt, finding the right processor makes all the difference. Here is how to choose a deer processor and what to expect during drop-off.