Spring Gold - Morel Mushroom Hunting

May 1, 2025

Springtime in the forest means many things—songbirds, blooming wildflowers, and for those in the know, one of nature’s most delicious treasures: the morel mushroom. These honeycombed marvels are considered the gold standard of wild edibles, sought after by foragers with the kind of passion normally reserved for buried treasure.

And rightly so. Morels are not only delicious but mysterious, unpredictable, and oddly beautiful—growing in secret spots, often appearing overnight, and vanishing just as fast.


Where to Find Morel Mushrooms

Morels (Morchella species) are famously elusive, but they tend to follow some specific environmental clues. Here’s where—and when—you’re most likely to strike gold:

  • Time of year: Early to mid-spring, especially after a good rain followed by warm days
  • Geography: Widespread across North America and Europe, particularly in forested areas and along riverbanks
  • Habitats:
  • Around dying or dead elm, ash, poplar, or apple trees
  • In burned forest areas—a phenomenon known as “burn morels”
  • Near disturbed ground, such as logging sites or old orchards


Look low and slow—morels are masters of camouflage, often blending perfectly with leaf litter and twigs. Once you spot one, there are usually others nearby.

 Tip: Morels are mycorrhizal and saprobic, meaning they can form symbiotic relationships with trees or grow from decaying organic matter. That’s why they’re so picky about location—and why no one has truly figured out how to reliably cultivate them commercially.

Facts About Morel Mushrooms

  1. They’re hollow inside – One of the best identification features! A true morel is completely hollow from stem to tip when sliced open.
  2. They have toxic lookalikes – False morels (Gyromitra species) can be dangerous or deadly. They’re often wrinkled rather than pitted, and not hollow inside.
  3. They can fetch serious money – In peak season, fresh morels can sell for $20–$50 per pound in local markets. Dried ones? Even more.
  4. They’re culinary royalty – With a nutty, earthy, almost meaty flavor, morels are beloved by chefs. They're often sautéed in butter or cream sauces, sometimes stuffed or added to pasta and risotto.
  5. They’ve been around for millennia – Morels have a fossil record going back over 100 million years, making them older than flowering plants!


The Largest Morel Mushroom Ever Found

In 2010, a morel mushroom discovered in Missouri, USA, stunned the foraging world. This giant specimen measured over 12 inches tall and weighed more than half a pound (about 250 grams). While size isn’t everything, such a find is rare and celebrated among mushroom hunters—sort of like catching a record-breaking fish.


The Hunt Is the Reward

Hunting for morel mushrooms is more than just a pastime—it’s a rite of spring. It's a practice that combines observation, patience, and a little bit of luck. With their short growing season and ephemeral nature, morels teach us to pay attention to the moment and savor the fleeting pleasures of wild food.

So when the nights warm up and the rains come down, grab a basket, hit the woods, and keep your eyes peeled. The morels are out there—but only for those willing to search.

By J.R. Hemminger May 29, 2025
Come visit HuntBNB at TAC for a chance to win a hunt giveaway!
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Why People Hesitate to Go on DIY Hunting and Fishing Trips (and How Huntbnb Can Help) When you think about hunting and fishing, many people imagine a peaceful retreat into nature, away from the noise and distractions of daily life. But despite the allure of this outdoor escape, a surprising number of people shy away from the idea of taking on a DIY (do-it-yourself) hunting or fishing trip. Whether it's the logistics, the lack of knowledge, or simple fears about being unprepared, many individuals find themselves hesitant to dive into these adventures. So, what exactly keeps people from embarking on DIY hunting and fishing trips, and how can Huntbnb help make these dreams a reality? 1. Lack of Knowledge or Experience One of the primary reasons people hesitate to take a DIY hunting or fishing trip is simply not knowing where to start. There’s a wealth of knowledge required – from understanding local hunting seasons and regulations to learning how to properly use the gear. 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