One of the most important jobs is camp cook. Hungry campers, anglers, and hunters are not happy unless they have a full belly. Timing, choice, volume, and assortment are important. It does not have to be fancy, but it must be ready and filling.

I have been a Camp Cook and enjoyed several great Camp Cooks. ‘Cookie” Was one of the best. He managed all the cooking, cleaning, and completed the chores with a smile. His meals were wonderful. No one could cook a steak better than Cookie. He filled my belly across Montana, western Maryland, Canada, and so many other places. 

My Buddy Keith was also a great cook. When I took him west to Montana, he pulled out the chuckwagon. We ate great every night. On one night, he wanted to make a pot roast with mashed potatoes. I had a Dutch Oven for the tasty roast but no potato masher in my chuck box. The next thing I knew, he was mashing potatoes with the canoe paddle. I hope that he at least spit on it first!

Being a great Camp Cook is an art, not just a skill. It’s about making do with what you have, Improvising is essential. I have been hired to be a Camp Cook several times. This is a HUGE responsibility. This means that I need my own tent. You do want to wake up campers earlier than they need. Coffee goes on first at least a hour before wake up time, which could, can be, and often is 3 am. 

Early hunters get the worm. These risers must get their gear, act, and grub on early. The horses, guides, and buddies won’t wait. Food needs to be ready quickly and on the spot. A lunch is also needed. I would make lunches upon request or lay out a buffet that they could choose from. Once the hunters and anglers left the camp, I could enjoy the day, which often included a nap. 

A Great Camp Cook makes primitive cooking special. Meals must have a theme and presentation is key. This varies with clients and provisions. Dutch Ovens are a must. Stacking hot ovens in the order of presentation is an art. 

If campers are Fat and Happy, then you did your job!

Montana Grant