Tips for First-Time Morel Mushroom Hunters
It's mushroom hunting season! Morel mushrooms are gold in Southeast Minnesota. Restaurants and stores have been known to pay $20-$40 per pound!
Here's what you need to know before you head out hunting for these fungi:
The best time to hunt is late-March through May. Morels grow best when the daytime temps are in the low- to mid-60s and nighttime temps hover around 40. Growth has probably been stunted because of the recent cold spell, but look for the mushrooms to rebound in the next couple weeks.
This Field and Stream article has a lot of great information for beginners. They say morels grow around the edge of forested areas, and specifically around ash, aspen, elm, and oak trees. Outdoor Life offers 12 tips, including focusing on well-drained areas that receive plenty of rainfall, but aren't flooded.
Check out some more tips on morel hunting in the video below:
Good luck, and happy hunting!