Deer in Cooler

[ronnycl]

How long can I keep a deer in a cooler with ice and drain plug pulled? Days,week? Looking at doing one, and would like to take it slow on processing

 

[batten_down]

A week, or week 'n half even, in cooler temps is fine. Keep fresh ice on it and drain plug open like you said. Some of the best venison I've had is from this method.

 

[WestTn Huntin man]

I average a week. if its warm outside. a week most . When it's freezing outside a little longer. keep a thermometer in in the lid and check the temperature .

 

[huvrman]

I use 6 days as my limit.

 

[megalomaniac]

7 to 10d

 

[Wolverine72]

so many variables... assuming your vigilant about keeping the ice packed etc, I'd not go longer than a week. a few years back i started freezing gallon and 1/2 gallon milk jugs and using those in the coolers. for me, this seemed to keep the meat more stable and less likely to get water logged. couple weeks if you're fortunate enough to have access to a refrigerator with space

 

[backyardtndeer]

I have kept quarters in the cooler for up to two weeks. Key is keeping it iced and water drained out.

 

[double browtine]

I usually leave deboned meat in the fridge for at least 14 days @ around 35-36 degrees. Then I trim, vacuum seal, and freeze it. This is for meat that I am going to either season or marinate and grill. If I am going to grind it, I usually just leave it in the fridge for a week and then trim, grind, vacuum seal and freeze.
I did use the cooler method once, but only because I didn't have an extra fridge at the time. I only left it in there for a couple of days.

 

[SES]

I try to finish mine within a week if it's in a cooler.

 

[SwampChicken]

2 weeks in the mini fridge for me

 

[user 14220]

7 to 10d

Same for me. Last one hung for 7 and steaks were superb

 

[megalomaniac]

Same for me. Last one hung for 7 and steaks were superb

No doubt, hanging is WAY better! The bucks the kids killed last Sat have been skinned, quartered, and placed on a patio table in the shade to dry age the past 5 days. Didn't even refrigerate them, never got above 55 deg

 

[catman529]

Keep ice in the cooler and keep the meat in plastic bags, can leave it a week or two.