From shot in the forest - Learn to take care of wild game
At EKA1882, we’ve been following Einar Norin’s adventures on social media. As an entrepreneur with a passion for hunting, he’s inspired us with his commitment to a sustainable lifestyle. Einar and his partner Sabina, along with their dog Stella, live on a farm where they cherish the entire hunting process. Join us as we share some of Einar’s insights on how to handle your game from field to feast.
Einar Norin - to be a hunter and take care of his game
Growing up in Mellösa, Södermanland, Einar developed a lifelong passion for the outdoors and wildlife. He obtained his hunting license at the young age of 17, thanks to his enrollment in a specialized hunting and wildlife management program. His enthusiasm for hunting has only deepened over the years. For Einar, hunting isn't just about the excitement of the chase or the companionship of fellow hunters. It is also about taking care of his game and the positive feeling of ultimately presenting it on his plate for friends and family.
As a young boy in elementary school, Einar was initiated into the world of moose hunting in Hälsingland, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He remembers missing out on a few class photos due to his hunting adventures. The men in his family and their hunting companions became his idols. While the elusive moose wasn't always spotted, the sheer excitement of being part of the hunt was enough to warm even the coldest winter's day. The cozy camaraderie around the campfire, listening to tales of hunts past, remains one of his fondest childhood memories.
What type of hunting are you most passionate about?
I find all hunting to be enjoyable, but driven hunts and stalking roe deer are my personal favorites," says Einar. "Driven hunts for fallow deer are particularly exciting as I get to watch my dog work and see the joy it brings her. I also dedicate a significant amount of time to stalking roe deer. The preparation is a big part of the appeal. During the summer, I'll often spend hours scouting the area with binoculars and a camera, carefully evaluating each buck. This helps me make informed decisions when the hunting season begins. My goal is to take the bucks during their prime, just before their antlers start to deteriorate.
When did you start harvesting your game?
I had been accompanying others on hunts for many years before I even took my hunting exam. It was only natural for me to continue these traditions when I finally became a hunter myself.
How do you handle the game you hunt?
To maintain the highest quality of meat, I usually transport my game home for processing. While field dressing can be necessary in certain situations, I find that home processing offers a cleaner and more controlled environment. After dressing the animal, I hang it in a cooler to chill before butchering and packaging. The meat is then frozen for long-term storage.
Einars advice on how to take care of your game
- Step outside your comfort zone and don't be afraid to learn from mistakes.
- Have a clear plan before you start.
- Prepare a designated area for field dressing.
- Start with a smaller animal, for example, a roe deer.
- Watch tutorials and study the animal's anatomy.
- Ensure you have access to a cooler or game storage facility.
- Choose knives that are sharp, easy to use, and well-suited for the task.
Many are afraid to take the step to take care of their game
It's all about taking the plunge," Einar explains. "A lot of people feel intimidated, but starting with a smaller animal like a roe deer can be a good way to build confidence. Over time, you'll learn how the animal's anatomy works. There are plenty of resources available to help you, from online tutorials to experienced hunters. The key is to have a plan in place before you go hunting. A butchering bench is helpful, but you can also work with the animal hanging.
If you're not comfortable doing everything yourself, there are game depots or local butchers who can help, especially during warmer months when rapid cooling is essential, like with wild boar.
Which butcher knives would you recommend?
My go-to knives are the EKA Butcher Set and the 18 cm Skinning knife. For more delicate tasks, I prefer the 18 cm File knife. I also rely on a 15 cm Boning knife and a Gut opener. When I'm out in the field, my trusty companion is the EKA Swedblade G3. Its compact size and the built-in gut hook make it incredibly versatile.
What is the best part about taking care of your game after a hunt?
When the meat is then cooked, it gains a greater value because you know the work that went into it. From the hours spent scouting and preparing, to the physical and mental exertion of the hunt, and finally the care taken in processing the animal – every step adds to the appreciation of the final product. And it's incredibly satisfying to share that meal with loved ones, knowing that you played a part in every step of the process
If I follow you on Instagram, what kind of posts and content can I expect to see
I focus on making hunting the main theme of my Instagram, but I also enjoy sharing glimpses of my daily life on the farm with my partner. Our versatile Kleiner Münsterländer, Stella, is always by our side. I chose her breed for her hunting abilities, but also because she's a great companion. When it comes to hunting, I cover everything from grain hunting to driven hunts. I'm passionate about sharing my knowledge and often post videos about various hunting techniques. I love getting questions from new hunters. Before, when I was younger, a 'successful hunt' was when you shot your game, but today I appreciate so much more about hunting. Being invited to new hunting grounds and making new friends is a big part of it," Einar explains. "I also enjoy being in front of the camera for Jakt Är Jakt on YouTube."
As we talk to Einar, hunting season is just around the corner, and he has a lot planned. Roe deer hunting, bear hunting, grouse hunting in August, and driven hunts in October. But even though he's no beginner when it comes to hunting, there's always something new to try. So after we say goodbye, Einar is off to the golf course. He's recently made a bet with his brother-in-law, saying that "golf can't be that hard." So now it's just a matter of proving it.
If you want to know more about the hunting Einar does and taking care of your game, don't hesitate to contact einarnorin on Instagram.