“The white-tailed deer is one of Minnesota’s most recognizable mammals and is a popular big game animal. It is found in every Minnesota county.” That is a direct quote from the Minnesota DNR website. The hunting of this distinguished animal is more of a lifestyle than a sport to many in the area. So what happens after the trophy buck is tagged? Or after the monstrous doe is taken down?

This time of the year is when businesses like Thielen’s Meat Market in Pierz and Northern Woods Taxidermy of Brainerd thrive. But with harvested deer numbers down 33,000 animals from last year’s 160,000, local businesses like these could see a slow season this time around. With a few weeks remaining in the 2014 hunting season, these businesses will remain busy, but they know the slower season is coming.

By — Justin Prince

Sports Director in Bemidji