Preserving a bear hide in the field is crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring it can be properly processed by a taxidermist later. The primary goal is to cool the hide rapidly and then salt it thoroughly to draw out moisture and inhibit bacterial growth.
Immediate Steps After Skinning
After successfully harvesting your bear, swift action is essential to prevent the hide from deteriorating.
- Cooling is Key: Immediately lay the hide out, fur-side down, in a cool, shaded area. If possible, fan it to aid in cooling. Avoid direct sunlight as it can heat the hide rapidly.
- Remove Excess Flesh and Fat: Carefully scrape away any large pieces of meat or fat clinging to the hide. The cleaner the hide, the better the salt can penetrate. A dull knife or a dedicated fleshing tool can be used for this. Pay close attention to areas like the armpits, brisket, and rump.
The Salting Process: Your Best Defense
Salting is the most effective field preservation method. It draws out moisture, which bacteria need to thrive, effectively "pickling" the hide.
Materials Needed:
- Non-iodized Salt: Coarse or fine grain salt (rock salt or table salt) works best. Avoid iodized salt as it can stain the hide. You'll need a significant amount – typically 10-20 lbs for a medium-sized bear.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Tarp or Ground Sheet: To keep the hide clean during processing.
Step-by-Step Salting:
- Prepare the Surface: Lay the hide out flat, flesh-side up, on a clean tarp or ground sheet in a shaded, dry area.
- Targeted Salting: Begin by getting a heavy coat of salt into critical, thicker areas that are prone to spoilage. This includes getting salt deep into the toes and all around the ears, eyes, nose, and lips. These areas are often difficult for salt to penetrate properly if just spread generally.
- Even Distribution: Once the critical areas are addressed, pour a pile of salt onto the center of the hide and spread it evenly over the entire hide all the way out to the edges. Ensure every inch of the flesh side is covered with a thick layer of salt – ideally, about a quarter to half an inch deep.
- Drying is Paramount: While you are still in the field, it is crucial to keep the hide DRY. Moisture can reactivate bacteria and dilute the salt, rendering it ineffective.
- Folding for Transport: After salting, you can carefully fold the hide, flesh-side in, or roll it up. Place it in a breathable bag (like a burlap sack) or a heavy-duty cooler without ice if temperatures are still cool. Avoid sealing it in a plastic bag for extended periods, as this can trap moisture and heat, promoting spoilage.
Field Preservation Checklist
To ensure you're prepared, here's a quick checklist for your bear hunting expedition:
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-iodized Salt | Dehydration and bacterial inhibition | Bring ample supply (10-20 lbs) |
| Sharp Knife | Skinning and initial fleshing | Keep it sharp! |
| Fleshing Tool | Removing excess meat and fat | Helps salt penetrate better |
| Tarp/Ground Sheet | Keep hide clean during processing | Provides a barrier from dirt and debris |
| Breathable Bag | Storage for transport | Avoid plastic for long periods; burlap is ideal |
| Gloves | Hygiene and protection | Essential for handling raw hide |
| Shade | Prevent hide from heating up | Crucial for initial cooling |
Post-Field Care
Once you've returned from the field, the hide should be handled as follows:
- Re-salt (If Necessary): If you anticipate a delay in getting the hide to a taxidermist, you might need to scrape off the initial moist salt, which has drawn out moisture, and apply a fresh, heavy coat of dry salt.
- Storage: Store the salted hide in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area until you can deliver it to a professional taxidermist. Do not freeze a heavily salted hide, as it can be difficult to thaw and handle without causing damage. Freezing is an alternative if salting isn't possible immediately, but it requires careful thawing.
For more detailed information on hide preparation, consult resources from experienced hunters or professional taxidermists, such as those found on reputable hunting and outdoor guides like Outdoor Life.
