Yeah, backstraps are really the only good eating on venison. Venison coarsley ground & used in chili is excellent, but the rest is good as a long cooked roast w/ onions & then make a gravy w/ it. Seems the 'gamey' taste comes out the longer you cook it.
If I ever get access to pheasant, Joan, I'll ask you for your recipe!
Or, you could post it here now