The Best Way to Hunt for Morel Mushrooms

Wait for the right weather. Morel mushroom sightings usually begin in spring, but the optimal time for morel mushroom hunting will vary depending on the weather in your region. Morels are often spotted when the temperature during the day is in the 60s (degrees Fahrenheit), but does not dip below the mid-40s at night. Do some research to verify that morels grow in your area before setting out on your hunt.

Choose your hunting spot. Old apple orchards and areas near dead or dying elm trees are great places to look. Morels also sometimes grow around dead or dying ash or poplar trees, and in other areas. Areas where the ground has been disturbed by flooding, fires or other factors are other good places to look.

Put on your hiking gear and head out to the woods to start hunting. Use your walking stick to move aside any leaves or vegetation and help you find morels. It can take awhile to find these mushrooms -- even for experienced morel hunters. It is possible that you may not find a morel in your first year of hunting.

When you do find a morel, cut it off at the base with your pocket knife and collect it in your mesh bag.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor. After your morel hunt, come home to cook and enjoy your mushrooms. Cut them in half lengthwise and be sure to clean the mushrooms thoroughly before eating, as they may contain dirt or insects. Many mushroom hunters like to soak their morels in salt water for a couple of hours to clean them and kill any bugs. One of the best ways to enjoy morels is to simply dip them in flour and pan fry them in butter. Morels can also be added to omelets, soups and other recipes.