Changing the Game in Meat Preparation

Wild game traditionally has a “gamey” flavor, causing many people to turn their noses away. Because of this, Morgan Clark, founder of Bigman Outdoors Seasonings, has made it his mission to transform how people approach cooking and seasoning wild game. Based in Nephi, Utah, Clark’s company was born from a desire to help hunters make the most of their harvested game.

A personal experience inspired Clark. After a pronghorn antelope hunt, he and his wife found themselves with meat that was literally and figuratively “tough” to enjoy.

“Everyone told us pronghorn was the worst-tasting meat out there,” Clark said. “Not wanting to waste what we harvested, I experimented with seasonings to make it palatable. I had some success, and I soon fell in love with the art of seasoning.”

What started as a personal experiment soon turned into a business. Clark discovered that many hunters faced the same problem—freezers full of wild game they didn’t know how to cook in a way that everyone would enjoy. Clark’s unique seasoning blends, including the popular Coffee Rub, have allowed people to cook wild game with flavors that mask or complement the natural taste. This innovation has been a game-changer for many hunters.

“One customer told me he was ready to quit deer hunting because his family wouldn’t eat the meat,” Clark shared. “But after trying our Coffee Rub, they all loved it, and he decided to keep hunting. That makes me happy!”

Clark has since expanded his product line, now offering seasoning blends for all meat types—not just wild game. His products can be found at farmers markets, events, and online.

Clark admits that starting Bigman Outdoors Seasonings was not easy. Fear initially prevented him from launching the business.

“I’d been making seasonings for years, sharing them with friends and family, but the idea of turning it into a business was daunting,” he said. “I was scared of putting myself, my family, and something I loved at risk.”

Encouragement from friends and his wife finally gave him the push he needed and the confidence to take the first step.

Key to Clark’s journey is the support of the SBDC and his counselor, Tim Chamberlain.

“At first, working with the SBDC was intimidating,” Clark said. “I didn’t know what to expect or where my business was going. But as things progressed, Tim became a vital resource, helping us make smart decisions and guiding us as we expanded.”

Chamberlain has provided sound business advice and acted as a mediator between Clark and his wife, helping them navigate decisions and maintain a balance between ambition and practicality.

“Tim helped me stay grounded while reminding my wife that growth requires taking some risks,” Clark said. “Without the SBDC, I don’t think we’d be where we are today.”

For those considering starting a business, Clark advises believing in your product and yourself. Be comfortable being uncomfortable, and don’t let the fear of failure stop you. The rewards are worth the risk.