The first thing that most hunters and Anglers need in the morning is Coffee.  Folks drink it to break their fast, wake up, create a laxative, or just begin their day. Sadly, many coffee brews waste their full potential. 

Most wilderness trips require limited gear and food. Only so many pounds per person will be allowed onto a plane. We flew into a Canadian lake, and I oversaw the meals. The food planning was fine, but coffee was an issue. I figured that the four of us would drink maybe 2 cups of coffee in the morning. I didn’t count on a couple guys sucking down coffee all day long. 

We ran out of coffee on the third day. The grounds were saved, and we tried to rebrew them, but they did not allow the coffee to get strong enough for the Brew Boys. I had some tea but … There were some unhappy anglers in camp without their caffeine fix.

A great cup of coffee does not need creamer, sugar, whip, spices, or… 

A perfect cup of coffee is best enjoyed Black. There are several things that make for a great cup of coffee. 

The new little pods limit the amount of coffee to brew. They make a cup fast but without body. It takes time for the coffee beans to release all their flavor. 

Fresh ground coffee releases more flavor than older grinds. The method of brewing is important. A percolator pot takes longer to make a cup, but the cup will be stronger and more delicious. This cup will be a stronger and stout wake up brew.

Making an individual cup works but you need to let the cup set for the grinds to release their flavor. While this is happening, the cup is getting cold and may need re-heating. 

Quality roasted beans make a difference. These beans can be infused with other flavors to produce a special cup. This means hazelnut, pumpkin, or… 

The size of the grinds determines how fast the coffee will brew. This is important when using a coffee press to release flavors. A coarser grind is fine if you allow the time to brew completely. 

Egg shells in a coffee pot smooth out the flavor. Rinse them first. Toss out once stained. 

Use a filter or cloth to remove any grinds from the pour.

Here’s how I make a cup of Camp Coffee

Add cold water to a large campfire pot. Fill to the pour spout and bring to a boil. Heat is supplied by the campfire, woodstove, or a grill. Figure on 1 tbsp. per cup, of grinds. If the pot is 10 cups, use 10 tbsp. of grinds. More grinds are not necessary if you brew long enough. Once the water is boiling, take the pot off the stove and let it set, to cool a bit. Foaming is normal and will subside as it cools. Before pouring, add a cup of cold water, grab the pot by the handle and swing it a few times to allow the grinds to settle to the bottom of the pot. If you feel like you need a filter, use a paper towel or cloth to pour through. 

Everyone has their special way to brew for the crew. If they like it, keep doing what you do with your brew. 

Montana Grant