Quick Answer
To effectively field dress a mountain goat, make a midline incision from the anus to the base of the neck, then carefully remove the organs and entrails. This process should be done as quickly as possible to minimize blood loss and spoilage. A clean and efficient field dressing is crucial for meat quality.
Preparing the Area and the Animal
Before field dressing the goat, ensure a clean and stable working area. Lay a tarp or game cloth under the animal to contain any spillage and make cleanup easier. If the animal has been shot, wait for a few minutes to allow the blood to coagulate, making the field dressing process less messy. Remove any heavy equipment, such as the pack, and hang the goat from a sturdy tree branch using a rope or a game hauler.
Making the Initial Incision
Begin the field dressing by making a midline incision from the anus to the base of the neck, using a sharp knife and a smooth, smooth motion. Cut through the skin and the muscle, taking care not to cut too deeply and damage the abdominal organs. For a mountain goat, this incision should be approximately 18-20 inches long. Continue the cut around the anus and genital area to create a flap that will allow easy removal of the entrails.
Removing the Organs and Entrails
Carefully remove the organs and entrails from the body cavity, taking care not to spill any contents. Start by removing the diaphragm and the esophagus, then carefully cut around the anus and genital area to release the flap. Gently pull the entrails out of the body, taking care not to tear or puncture the rectum or other surrounding tissues. For a mountain goat, the entrails should be removed in one piece, from the anus to the base of the neck. This will help minimize blood loss and spoilage, and ensure a cleaner field dressing.
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