What to do with the meat?

**rockcrick** · 02-28-2009, 06:30 PM

I am planning a hunting trip to Hawaii and I was wondering what you all do with the meat from goats, sheep, pigs, etc. If I do have a successful trip I obviously cannot transport it all back to the mainland, but I definately won't waste it. Do foodbanks accept wild game in Hawaii like they do up here? I would be willing to pay processing fees then donate it just so I know it goes to feed someone. Any suggestions or thoughts appreciated.

**Glass eye** · 03-01-2009, 08:25 AM

I've had no problems bringing back meat, hide and horns. I've brought them back frozen and also only ice cold. In the past it never cost any extra but now I think they'll gouge you on extra and/or overweight baggage. You can still bring it back, it'll just cost a little more.
If you want to donate it, I bet just about any local on the street will take it off your hands. Hawaiians aren't squeemish about wild game like most mainlanders are.

**rockcrick** · 03-01-2009, 12:00 PM

Thanks for the heads up Glasseye. The airlines charge an astronomical fee now for checked baggage. Last time I flew (december '08) it was $25 for the first bag and $50 for each additional and a fee on top of that if your bag was over 50 pounds. I suppose boned out meat would cut the weight down considerably but I would be just as happy to give it away to a needy family. I give away most of my meat here as I can only eat so much before freezer burn and it justifies filling those tags knowing you are really helping someone. I will try to search out some local food banks and maybe get something arranged beforehand so I dont have to worry about it.

**rodneyshishido** · 03-02-2009, 03:31 PM

Which island are you hunting? Are you using a "guide"? A guide would know people who want the meat. Here on Maui, the game wardens are very helpful in finding people who can use the meat.

**rockcrick** · 03-02-2009, 09:14 PM

I am leaning towards the big island it seems like it has the most public land and species diversity for one island. I plan on a DIY hunt, no guide. I think getting in touch with the local DLNR officer well in advance would be a good idea. Thanks for your input.

**Huntr Pat** · 03-12-2009, 02:09 PM

I just got back from Hilo and they charged me $15 for the 1st checked baggage and $25 for the 2nd. There was 2 of us and we had 1 each so it was $30 total.I brought a cooler and my rifle case.
Most other airlines have restrcition on rifle case length also.
Hawaiian had 70 in requirement United and Delta has a 60in. If its any longer then wxLxd+ 60 they will charge you more.
Also within 48 hour in reaching your destination you must register your rifle with the local sheriff office.

**rockcrick** · 03-12-2009, 05:09 PM

Thanks for the heads up Huntr Pat. Last time I flew it was a bit pricier for extra bags but it was a different airline and fuel has gotten cheaper since, probably dropping the bag fees. I did not know that about the rifle case length, another way to nickel and dime you at the airport I am sure, but thanks for the info.

**elkguys** · 03-12-2009, 06:36 PM

AS for the meat contact fhfh.org and they will be glad to help take the meat.good luck on your trip

**Bulleye** · 03-13-2009, 03:29 PM

I travel with my bow case and stuff it with all my supplies I then buy a cooler at Walmart or Kmart and put the vacum sealed meat in the cooler and fly back with it. Its not hard at all. Dont pack dry ice unless you dont mind an additional 100 plus dollar fee. If you pack the meat use the gel icepacks cause they dont allow loose ice. If you dont have the foodsaver just ziplock it and then you can do the final meat processing when you get home. Have fun and good luck!