Fern Bailey (Tastefullywild)

Just about anyone that grows up in Michigan has a hunter or fisherman in the family. Mine was my dad. It was like a religious ceremony in the fall as preparation for the week-long deer hunting trip somewhere into the mysterious upper Michigan woods took place at our home. As a kid, the excitement of knowing dad was on his way home with a buck was like the excitement of Christmas morning. I couldn't wait to see the size of his deer and help him with it.

My dad had told my husband that when I was a kid "girls just didn't hunt", so it wasn't until the fall of 2014, that I had my first hunting experience. I sat in the blind with my husband all that fall hoping to encounter my first deer. I was there to observe only and learn the extreme patience of hunting. That year, my husband didn't get a deer, but I got an experience that changed my life.

In the fall of 2016, I took my first buck and I was elated! My dad had passed the previous March so the moment was a very special one. My dad was so excited his baby girl was getting the experience of hunting that I know he was looking down and smiling his big blue-eyed grin.

Now that I am an official hunter I have taken on the task of cooking the wild game. I grew tired of chili and sloppy joes and started to get creative, and I want to share these recipes and ideas with not just other hunters, but with anyone that loves food.

My dad loved many things in this life including hunting, food and his kids, so this is dedicated to him.

In the Spotlight

Tender Rabbit and Savory Parmesan Herb Dumplings

Tender rabbit and savory Parmesan herb dumplings are bathed in a creamy gravy.

• 
  2
  delishably.com

  Tender Rabbit and Savory Parmesan Herb Dumplings

  2 years ago

  Tender rabbit and savory Parmesan herb dumplings are bathed in a creamy gravy.

• 
  1
  delishably.com

  Smoked Wild Hog Tender Loin Recipe

  2 years ago

  Low and slow smoking keeps this lean cut of meat fork-tender and juicy.

• 
  0
  delishably.com

  Spicy Venison and Shrimp Pasta in Cream Sauce Recipe

  2 years ago

  A rich, creamy pasta with spicy venison and succulent shrimp.

• 
  2
  delishably.com

  Baked Spaghetti and Sauce Recipe

  2 years ago

  This is a perfect way to use leftover spaghetti, especially on those nights that you need a great meal fast!

• 
  4
  delishably.com

  5 Myths About Eating Wild Game vs. Store-Bought Meat

  2 years ago

  Is wild game gamey? Will you get worms from venison? Can pregnant women eat wild game? These questions and myths are discussed here!

• 
  2
  delishably.com

  Open-Faced Venison Steak Sandwich Recipe

  2 years ago

  This is a recipe for decadent steak sandwiches on hearty Texas-style garlic toast. One bite, and you'll be hooked.

• 
  4
  delishably.com

  Thick and Hearty Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

  2 years ago

  Learn how to make a thick and rich venison and sausage sauce that is perfect for any type of pasta.