Answer the call of the wild with more time in the field and at the lodge, rather than buried in research on figuring out where to go. We’ve found it all for you. Something for everyone who craves an adventure. For sporting gentlemen, these lodges serve up ambience, altitude, and amazing experiences for hunters, from rustic to regal. Listed here from low-key to high-end luxury:
1. Stasney’s Cook Ranch – Albany, Texas (888) 762-2999
A classic hunting camp in the heart of Texas, Stasney’s Cook Ranch is 25,000 acres of premium hunting habitat. Whitetail deer, Rio Grande turkey, quail, dove, chukar and wild boar are among the game types. Rooms range from $135 for basic accommodations to $825 for a suite that sleeps five with all meals included.
2. Battenkill Lodge – Shushan, New York (516) 671-7690
Catch & release trout fishing and bird hunting in upstate New York. Rainbow trout, autumn grouse and woodcock. Weekly rates start at $750 for two people in the resort’s Blue Winged Olive Suite.
3. Cedar Ridge Outfitters – Jackman, Maine (207) 668- 4169
Black bear, white tail deer up to 230 pounds, moose, grouse and woodcock, coyote and snowshoe hare are hunted at this woodsy Maine resort. A lottery moose permit drawn from the state earns you a private lodge-guided hunt. Pricing for cabins starts at $210 a week for two people. Plus, activities including canoeing, biking, rock climbing and horseback riding are available.
4. Grand Ciel Lodge – Plankinton, South Dakota (605) 942-7337
Pheasant hunting on the open prairie at a small bed-and-breakfast-type lodge is 90 miles west of Sioux Falls in prime grassy and rolling bird country. Rates start at $1,850 per person for three-day/four-night stays, which includes guided hunts and three home-cooked meals a day.
5. Spotted Bear Ranch – Whitefish, Montana (800) 223-4333
Catering to serious backcountry hunters, Spotted Bear Ranch leads elk, deer and bear expeditions into the heart of the Flathead National Forest. The million acre grounds includes the Bob Marshall and Great Bear Wilderness, near Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. Accommodations include six rustic hunt cabins. Bowhunters looking to bag a trophy elk can sign up for a unique program at Spotted Bear: The Early Season Guided Montana Bow Hunts, which is a six-night, five-day hunt that costs $2,900, provides each hunter on the trip with their own personal guide.
6. Paws Up Outfitters – Greenough, Montana (888) 462-9710
Legendary fly fishing and elk, deer and bear hunting in the 37,000 acre Bob Marshall Wilderness. From pack trips to Park Avenue elegance at the Resort, this is not the back 40. A room for four starts at $570 a night. Luxurious cabins that can accommodate eight are around $2,620.
7. Rancho Caracol – Brownsville, Texas (956) 542-3482
Dove and quail hunting so satisfying, that it comes with a guarantee. Conservationists, as well, the acclaimed hunting resort has teamed with researchers from Texas A&M Kingsville and the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute support and study the endangered Mexican ocelot. Whitewing Dove Packages for four start at $2195/person. Mourning Dove Packages for four start at $1395/person.
8. LaFonda Ranch – Brackettville, Texas (830) 563-3441
Featuring deer, quail, turkey, dove and exotic game hunting, plus catch & release fishing and skeet during your stay. Quotes are custom to each excursion. Call for more info.
9. Seven Lakes Lodge – Meeker, Colorado (800) 809-4772
An island of deeded property in the middle of the two million-acre White River National Forest, adjoining the 235,230-acre Flat Tops Wilderness Area. The area is home to the largest Elk herd in the world. World-class dining, a thoroughly-equipped exercise center, a steam room and outdoor spa, complement the extraordinary fly-fishing, hiking, riding and shooting opportunities. Six night stays, with arrival on Sunday afternoon and departure on the following Saturday morning start at $7,375.00 per person/double-occupancy. Shorter stays may be available at the $1,230.00 per person/per night/double-occupancy.
10. Three Forks Ranch – Dixon, Colorado/Savery, Wyoming (970) 583-7396
Legendary elk, mule deer, pronghorn, antelope and fly fishing as well as skeet shooting in a luxe setting nestled in the rocky mountains. The Lodge and Spa at Three Forks Ranch offers only 15 bedrooms, providing guests with a unique combination unspoiled privacy, and lavish comfort. Rates range from $4500 for antelope to $9250 for elk. Nearby Steamboat Springs ski resort offers additional recreation, along with a spa and 5 star restaurant.
Resources:
Traveler Reviews tripadvisor.com.
Orvis-endorsed Wing Shooting Lodges
