4 wild fish and game lunches to heat up a day of ice-fishing

Recipes & photos by Cameron Tait

When you’ve been fishing hard all morning, punching holes, working the electronics and jigging up a storm, nothing beats a well-deserved lunch break—especially when something extra-special is on the menu. Take your midday meal up a notch with these four tasty dishes for four. Your fishing buddies will love you for it.

SPICY MOOSE CHILI

• 2 lb moose shoulder
• ¼ cup canola oil
• 1 onion diced
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 28 oz can whole tomatoes
• 14 oz can maple-style beans
• 19 oz white kidney beans
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp chipotle powder
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp kosher salt

1. Dice the moose into half-inch cubes. Heat a large pot on high, add the oil and sear the moose until light brown. Add the onions and garlic, then sauté for another 5 minutes.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer for 2 to 3 hours, stirring often.
3. Adjust the seasoning and reheat if necessary before heading out, placing the hot chili in a vacuum-insulated travel container.