Hunting has always been a hands-on way of spending time outdoors. You pay attention, move quietly, and try to understand what the land and the weather are telling you. It’s not complicated, but it demands patience and a bit of discipline. Most people who hunt do it because it’s thrilling and keeps them connected to nature.

Big game and small game

Hunting usually falls into two groups: big game and small game.

Big game hunting includes animals like moose, red deer, wild boar, and reindeer. It often involves planning, teamwork, and sticking to strict rules. Shots need to be controlled, and you need to know your rifle well.

Small game hunting covers species such as grouse, ptarmigan, hare, ducks, and foxes. It’s more flexible, and many enjoy it because you can head out for shorter trips, follow fresh tracks, or sit quietly near water or open ground.

Common species and how people hunt them

Moose is the main big game species in Norway. Most teams use dogs to track and push animals while others sit in agreed positions and wait. Red deer is especially common along the west coast, often hunted in steep terrain where local knowledge matters. Reindeer hunting takes place in mountain areas and usually means long walks and careful planning around weather.

For small game, grouse and ptarmigan are the classics. Some use pointing dogs, others simply walk the terrain and read the landscape as they go. Hares are followed by reading tracks and signs in snow or soft ground.

The value behind the activity

For many, the shot is a small part of the whole experience. The real work happens before: preparation, reading the area, and making sure you take clean, responsible shots. Hunters also make use of the meat they bring home and follow seasonal limits. It creates a sense of responsibility that stays with you long after the hunt is over.

REAL – something most hunters know well

Ask hunters in Norway what they bring in their packs, and REAL freeze-dried meals show up again and again. They’re light, reliable, and easy to prepare after hours of walking or waiting. For many, it’s simply part of the standard gear, right up there with a good knife and a thermos.

REAL Meals: Field-ready and field-tested

When spending time in the wilderness, especially during long or physically demanding hunts, staying fueled is essential. Many hunters across the Nordics rely on REAL Meals, including REAL Turmat and REAL Field Meal, for their dependable quality and good taste.

Their freeze-dried format makes them lightweight and easy to pack, while preparation is simple: just add hot water. After hours in cold forests or wet marshlands, a warm and flavorful meal provides both comfort and energy. Their long-standing presence in hunting backpacks speaks to their quality and convenience.