RanchSeeker Blog

Fun, adventure and breathtaking scenery await guests at Colorado Trails Ranch located in the San Juan Mountains outside historic Durango, Colorado. For over 53 years the ranch has been offering an authentic dude ranch experience to its visitors. Guest ranch stays are all-inclusive and provide the opportunity to re-connect with family members, create new friends, memories and perhaps learn a new skill. The best way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains is from atop a horse. There are vast mountain ranges, creeks and meadows to explore. It doesn’t matter whether you are a 1st time rider, advanced or fall somewhere in between there are riding options for people off all ages and skill levels. You can choose from morning rides or afternoon rides or both. The more adventurous rider can also take part in team penning and steer soccer, for a small additional charge.

Colorado Trails Ranch offer a vast array of activities to do aside from horseback riding. You will be in trout heaven if you love to fish. If you are new to the sport you can learn the basics of fly-fishing and for the more accomplished fisherman there is the opportunity to try out some more challenging spots where you can test your skills out. Other fun activities to try are white-water rafting, trap shooting, and archery, guided nature hikes in the forests and mountains, volleyball, swimming in the heated pool and power tubing for the kids at the nearby Vallecito Lake. After a fun-filled day it’s time for the nighttime activities to begin. Many of the evening’s events are suitable for both kids and adults to enjoy together. There is Western dancing in the Opera House where you and your family will learn the footwork for square and line dancing. And everyone enjoys ice- cream social night, going on hayrides and cowboy campfire sing-a-longs. One night is always reserved for wood-fired cookout serving up beef tenderloin, chicken breast and all the fixings to be enjoyed under a magnificent Colorado sky. A guest ranch vacation at Colorado Trails Ranch can be as active as you want but it can also be just as relaxing too. You can kick-off your boots and enjoy some quiet time in your comfortable, and beautifully decorated cabin or take a relaxing soak in the ranch’s hot tub under a Colorado starry sky.There truly is something for everyone while visiting Colorado Trails Ranch.

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today

Happy Trails! 

There is nothing more fun than thinking about where you want to go on your next vacation. This year why not consider putting Spotted Horse Ranch at the top of your travel wish-list? Open May through October, this Wyoming guest ranch, is ideal for travelers who are looking for a more laid-back pace, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Shortly after your arrival you will begin to feel like you have gone back in time to a simpler era in the “American Old West”

Although the day to day pace is more leisurely here it is by no means ever boring! Guests can choose from activities such as fly-fishing, hunting, a scenic float trip on the Snake River or white water rafting for the more adventurous traveler. For those who enjoy hiking there are lots of opportunities to connect with nature as well. 

Of course, staying at a guest ranch for many, is all about horseback riding. The Spotted Horse Ranch, known for their Appaloosa horses, offer daily rides across acres of scenic forest lands. Be sure to bring your camera along to snap pics while you ride through valleys of wildflowers and along river banks surrounded by majestic mountain landscapes. Overnight pack trips are available for guests who would like to experience even more of the “great outdoors” that surrounds the ranch. 

Two nights a week during the summer months the ranch hosts evening cookouts which are always a lot of fun! Nothing quite beats the sound of sizzling steaks and the sweet smell of marshmallows cooking over an open-fire coupled with live entertainment provided by local talent. There is also volleyball, ping-pong, square dancing and horseshoes to try your hand at while taking a break from the more energetic activities. For the ultimate in rest and relaxation, guests can visit local hot springs for a dip in a natural “hot tub.” 

Accommodations consist of comfortable individual log cabins featuring modern conveniences from home or spacious rooms that include private baths with a western-style décor which embodies the true spirit of the West. In the main lodge you’ll find the dining room which overlooks the Hoback River as well as a living-room with a beautiful rock fireplace and lounge. Other main features include a sauna, whirlpool, video library, and laundry facility.          

A vacation at Spotted Horse Ranch provides adventure as well as perfectly blended moments of relaxation. You decide just how active you want to be during your stay. With a true sense of the ‘old west’ and the hospitality that makes each guest feel at home, this Wyoming guest ranch should be high on your travel wish-list this year.

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation.

This year when planning your next vacation for your family, spouse or friends why not choose a guest ranch vacation? You don't have to be a cowboy or even know how to ride a horse to have a great time. Here are 5 reasons you should check out the ranches on RanchSeeker today. 

Dude Ranches Offer All-Inclusive Value Most dude ranches offer all-inclusive vacation packages which makes your vacation stress-free. Comfortable accommodations, meals, snacks and many activities are all included in your upfront costs. Many ranches also have swimming pools, hot tubs and saunas.

( Photo courtesy of White Stallion Ranch)

Dude Ranch Vacation Packages Many dude ranches aside from offering basic all-inclusive vacation packages also offer customizable vacation packages. If you want to be a “real cowboy” for a week you can choose a working ranch and help rustle up the cows, participate in a rodeo and saddle-up your own horse. Or if you prefer a more laid-back approach you could choose a spa package at one of the many ranch spa resorts and spend the week being treated to relaxing treatments and incredible views. There are many vacation packages available that you can choose from to make your dude ranch vacation tailor-made for you.

(Photo courtesy of New Haven Ranch)

Horseback Riding If you love horses then a dude ranch vacation is definitely for you. Whether you are an experienced rider or will be riding for the first-time responsible wranglers will help you find the right horse for you. Enjoy riding through forests, surrounded by majestic mountains, or through canyons alongside rushing rivers or even take a ride through an arid desert surrounded by green cacti. Many ranches will pair you with a horse at the beginning of the week who will be yours for the rest of your stay so be prepared to make a new friend.

(Photo courtesy of Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch) 

Dude Ranches Are Close To Nature A dude ranch vacation is all about the scenery – unplugging from technology and connecting with nature. Riding and hiking trails always lead to the very best of the surrounding landscapes that are inaccessible any other way. Re-connect with the world around you.

(Photo courtesy of Hawley Mountain Ranch) 

Spend Quality Time Together With today's modern dude ranches offering so many activities there is something for everyone of all ages. Whether you are traveling with your family, spouse or good friends you are bound to find something that interests everyone in your group. Many dude ranches offer kid-friendly programs so be sure to ask them. Vacations are about making memories and spending time together.

(Photo courtesy of Echo Valley Ranch & Spa) 

Still not sure whether a dude ranch vacation is what you are looking for?

Check out our SEARCH FOR RANCHES tab and read more about each ranch listed on RanchSeeker.  

Happy Trails!

Soon we will be bidding farewell to 2018 and ringing in the New Year. For many, it is all about making resolutions which often include: go to the gym, lose weight, eat healthier food, try something new or tick off items from your bucket list.

If life as a cowboy/cowgirl and reconnecting with nature has always been something you’ve dreamed of, then the following article which first appeared in Ranch & Reserve Magazine’s 9th issue will be of interest: 

“If a Guest Ranch Vacation Isn’t on Your Bucket List It Should Be” 

In the spirit of the New Year upon us, I have decided to repost with applicable updates:

The Oxford Dictionary defines “bucket list” as follows:

Noun

Informal

A number of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime: making this trip is the first thing on my bucket list

Origin

Early 21st century: from the phrase, “kick the bucket ‘die’ ” popularized by the 2007 film “The Bucket List” starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman

Ever since “the Bucket List” hit movie theaters worldwide, a bucket list movement has been on the rise and continues to evolve among younger and older generations alike. Websites with titles like “10,000 Things To Do Before You Die” and “100+ Creative Bucket List Ideas You Should Add To Your List” are popular search engine phrases for those looking for inspiration and ideas to help create their own personal bucket list.

Nowadays, more and more people suffer from the never-ending pressure of their day-to-day responsibilities, commitments and overwhelming time constraints. Whether it’s a student working towards a degree, a hardworking employee with perhaps a family to raise or a simple case of trying to schedule a “date” with a significant other, life doesn’t leave much time to dare to dream and plan those things you would like to do before, yes….I’m going to say it…kick the bucket!

Health, monetary and career goals along with those endless to-do lists may already be a part of your daily routine, however, a bucket list allows you to delve deeper and ask yourself what do you really want to do, experience, see and learn in your lifetime? There is nothing too big, insignificant or random when making a bucket list.  In fact, it can be an incredibly enlightening experience. From a very young age we are taught to consider others before ourselves and as we grow older this can often result in setting aside or putting off things that perhaps at one time were very important to us.

An encouraging and positive aspect of bucket lists is that they are fluid in nature. During a lifetime, priorities will change and things that at one time or another were at the top of the list, may not be so later on. My bucket list is a perpetual work in progress, a constant subtracting and adding of new experiences and goals that I would like to achieve, although there are many “givens” that consistently remain throughout this process. As I grow as a person and am exposed to all the wonderful choices that this wide world has to offer, I find that a bucket list enables me to approach life with an enthusiastic “joie de vivre” as I strive to live life to the fullest.

Everyone’s bucket list is unique. Perhaps it includes an extreme activity like sky diving, swimming with sharks, or bungee jumping. But a bucket list can also be about learning a new language, living abroad, swimming in the ocean for the first time, learning to ride a horse or visiting a country that appeals to your inner self.  The act of making a bucket list allows your imagination to roam freely as you identify and make accomplishing these goals an integral part of your life plan. As C.S. Lewis once said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

An endless…. literally endless list of possibilities exist out there, so when making up a bucket list perhaps a guest ranch vacation isn’t one that immediately comes to mind…..but oh how it should!  Guest ranches provide an unbeatable opportunity to engage in an array of exciting and challenging activities, quite often conveniently close to home or far away in colourful locales. Experience the thrill of trail rides among absolutely breathtaking scenery as you decompress, reconnect with nature and get in touch with your inner “cowboy or cowgirl.”  With so many excellent dude ranches to choose from, the following is a short list only to consider when planning your next bucket list guest ranch adventure.

Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch 

Open meadows, tall Ponderosa forests and an abundance of wildlife awaits you at this New Mexico guest ranch. Horseback riders or hikers will marvel at the deep canyons and crystal clear streams that are all part of the Gila National Forest. While you explore the area you will have the opportunity to learn about the rich history associated with the region. Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch is a small ranch (only 4 cabins) so guests are guaranteed a truly personal atmosphere.

Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch 

Wyoming is the perfect playground for those looking for an exceptional experience! With 650,000 acres to explore this upscale working cattle, riding, fly-fishing and adventure guest ranch is the ideal vacation choice. Trapshooting, archery, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking,4X4 tours as well as many other opportunities await the adventurous. Be sure to book well in advance so that you don’t miss out since this guest ranch fills up quickly due to returning guests and word of mouth.

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch

Southern Cross Guest Ranch

Considered “One of America’s Best Dude Ranches" by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Southern Cross Guest Ranch, is a wonderful All-Inclusive vacation in a horse lover's paradise. It is conveniently located in Central Georgia’s Historic Heartland and is within an hour’s drive from Atlanta. The ranch is best known for its exceptional hands-on horseback riding program, unguided riding opportunities, and peaceful, comfortable setting and is also home to well over 150 quality Paint and Quarter horses. There are various activities to choose from while staying at Southern Cross Guest Ranch where horseback riding is the featured activity.

Southern Cross Guest Ranch

Let RanchSeeker  help you find your ideal guest ranch bucket list destination!

It’s not too late book this Labor Weekend Special at this spectacular California ranch.

Coffee Creek Ranch, located in Northern California is 367 acres of pure, natural, pristine wilderness. Here you will find snow-capped mountain, cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, sparkling lakes and one of Northern California’s finest guest ranches. For fly fishing enthusiasts, this is a dream location. For horseback riding enthusiasts the ranch offers a variety of horseback riding activities from the twice a day 2-hour ride to Wilderness Pack Trips in the Trinity Alps Wilderness area. If overnight pack trips or shorter trail riding is more your style, the ranch will tailor your time in the saddle to suit your particular needs.  Everything about Coffee Creek Ranch, from their comfortable and cozy cabin accommodations, to their freshly prepared, delicious hearty meals is designed so that guests get the most out of their guest ranch experience.   

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SPECIALS

Celebrate the Labor Day Weekend at Coffee Creek Ranch with our ALL-INCLUSIVE vacation specials starting August 31st to September 3rd, 2018. Availability goes fast so book early!

$350.00 pp - 2 nights, 3 days

$550.00 pp - 3 nights, 4 days

$750.00 pp - 4 nights, 5 days

They are also offering 25% off these special rates for kids 3-5 yrs old!

Come enjoy all that CCR has to offer, such as horseback riding, gold panning, fishing, line and square dancing, bonfires, bingo, fabulous meals and much more.

BOOKING DEADLINE:   August 15th, 2018

To book this special please click here:  'Daily Cabin Rentals & Labor Day WeekendSpecials' for your 2, 3 or 4 night stays.

*Please note: All specials include horseback riding but do not include private lessons (please see the Non-Guest Riding Rates for prices). Rates and specials are subject to change and must be booked by the deadline dates – these special rates do not apply when booking through a travel agency, so hurry these special weeks book up FAST!

Be sure to mention that you heard about this special first through RanchSeeker.

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today!

Riding ADDventures for Girls is a therapeutic, horseback riding camp for the ADHD teen girl in your life! If she is looking for a riding adventure and wants a sisterhood with other teen girls who share in the same struggles of trying to squeeze their creative, energetic, ADHD self into the public-school mold. ADHD is NOT a failed version of normal... it is simply a different way of being!

Our Riding ADDventures for girls is a 4-day, 3-night, experience! Your teen will sleep in a luxury camping tent under our big Montana, mountain sky!

 In the saddle your teen will learn horse safety and western horsemanship. Our primary focus is safety, fun and skill advancement. In that order!                                                                               

Out of the saddle, your teen will enjoy art projects, team building activities and powerful campfire conversations. Our intention is to give your teen tools to help her develop a healthier self-esteem, gain confidence and self-awareness. Mindfulness and compassion skills help self-criticism and will help your teen to become more confident!

It’s first come, first serve, so be sure and contact us early to reserve that tent ahead of time.

Dates

2018

July 26-29, 2018 (13-18 years)

2019

July 11-15, 2019 (14-16 years)

July 18-22, 2019 (13-15 years)

July 25-29, 2019 (16-18 years)-

For the original source article with more details click HERE 

Some Additional Info about Horses N Courage, LLC 

Located in Sawmill Canyon in Lennep, Montana this family owned, and operated dude ranch combines dude ranching culture with good old western hospitality to make your vacation experience a memorable one. Open to guests from June 1st until September 1st Horses N Courage, can accommodate up to 8 guests at a time so that your stay at the ranch can be customized according to your vacation needs. You’ll arrive as a guest but depart as a friend.

The ranch offers unique accommodations for those looking for a different kind of ranch experience in the great outdoors. There is no cell phone coverage or WIFI available so that guests can disconnect in order to re-connect with each other as well as their surroundings. Choose from either a wall-tent or a cowboy-teepee.

Wall-Tents: Clean, cozy wall tents, sleep up to 4 adults comfortably and are furnished with comfortable cots, warm fluffy sleeping bags, extra blankets, throw rug, lantern, a mirror, lawn chair, small table with a wash bowl and a pitcher. The clean, old fashioned out house toilet is a short walk from your tent.

 Cowboy-Teepees: Teepee’s sleep one adult or 2 children comfortably, with a cot(s) and a fluffy sleeping bag, extra blankets, a table, lantern, throw rug, lawn chair, a washbowl, pitcher and a mirror. The clean, old fashioned out house toilet is a short walk from your teepee.

Shower: A large, wood-sided outdoor shower that is a self- standing little structure with propane heated water. It sits behind the cook tent, facing the trees, ensuring that you have the utmost privacy!

 Guests enjoy rustic, hearty ranch-cooked meals that are prepared outdoors and served with all the western fixing’s which include ranch raised natural beef, big mountain breakfasts and substantial lunches. All that clean fresh air will have you asking for seconds but make sure you save some room for s’mores around the campfire at night! If you require a special diet, be sure to note it on your contact form in advance, so that the ranch can accommodate your needs.

 So whether you are interested in the Riding ADDventures for Teen Girls package or just a guest ranch vacation be sure to mention that you heard about Horses N Courage first through RanchSeeker’s blog.

Happy Trails!

Summer has finally arrived, and Vista Verde is ready to help you and your family create everlasting memories. With a variety of activities to choose from, amazing food, and a friendly staff as well as spectacular scenery this Colorado guest ranch is the place to be on your next vacation. Vista Verde expertly combines their all-inclusive plan with true Western hospitality and AAA Four Diamond amenities so that you can sit back and relax or fill your days with thrilling activities.

Since there are so many activities to choose from the ranch’s wranglers and guides go the extra mile to ensure that each activity that you pick is tailored to your interest, ability and fitness level. Whether you want to learn a new skill or simply sharpen an existing skill set the ranch provides professional gear and equipment as well as lots of instruction so that you get the most out of your experience. Read on to learn more about the summer activities available at the ranch and start planning your vacation today.

Horseback Riding

The riding program at the ranch not only offers the opportunity to go on adventurous trail rides but also the chance to learn a thing or two with their variety of clinics that explore the different aspects of horsemanship. Whether you are a novice or an advanced rider the wranglers will keep it interesting for the duration of your stay.

Fly-Fishing

For the fishermen in your group there is nothing like casting your line into the crystal-clear mountain water of the lakes and streams found around the ranch with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop. The ranch’s guides will help you plan that perfect day of fishing and provide you with invaluable insights and tips to help you get the most out of your day.

Mountain Biking

Mix it up while on your vacation and check out the extensive mountain biking program. Choose from either Mountain Biking, Biking in the Mountains, or Ranch Cruising all of which include instruction so that you’ll feel confident while in the saddle.

Hiking

Situated in the Routt National Forest close to the Zirkel Wilderness Area, Vista Verde is close to a plethora of trailheads that provide extraordinary hiking opportunities. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just want to go on a relaxing family hike a ranch guide will assist you in picking the ideal experience for your needs.

Kids, Tweens, and Teens

The ranch offers a comprehensive program for all their younger guests. Your kids won’t even miss being connected to their devices while staying at the ranch.

Rock Climbing

Twice a week ranch guides take newbies and experienced rock climbers up the climbing rock where after a few hours of instruction guests can try their hand at climbing and rappelling.

Paddleboarding

Cool off in a high alpine lake surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and either simply relax on a stand-up-paddleboard or get a full body workout as you paddle from one end to another.

Photography Tour

With the help of local photographer Carla Jones hone your photography skills so that your vacation shots are truly special.

Yoga

Step outside and experience a yoga class in a natural surrounding. Ideal for stretching out sore muscles as well as connecting with nature. Devyn provides a 1-hour class twice a week at the Wild Yoga hideout a short hike or ride away from the ranch.

Massage

Getting a massage is always a great idea but especially when you are taking part in lots of physical activities. Be sure to ask about the various massages available.

Rafting & Kayaking

Take part in an adventurous day-long river rafting trip two hour away form the ranch or stay closer to home and kayak on the Yampa river. Be prepared to get wet!

Culinary Experiences

Join Chef Cholly for a cooking class or wine tasting. Once a week take a peak at how things work “in the back of the house” and either join in or simply watch how it’s all done. Learn how to evaluate wine and expand your wine vocabulary.

As you can see there are lots of activities to keep you entertained during the day. A summer vacation at Vista Verde is what summers should be all about…fun!

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today.

Over the past few weeks RanchSeeker has focused on several popular guest ranch destinations in the USA and we have also highlighted lots of great ranches in those areas. Our first blog post highlighted Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia and Idaho. Then in our 2nd blog post   we featured Montana, New Mexico and Wyoming.  For our final blog post about “Where Should I Go on My Next Ranch Vacation?” we will be focusing on the following destinations and guest ranches located in Canada.

Alberta

When you think of “ranches,” “old west” and “cowboy,” the province of Alberta, Canada, may not come immediately to mind. But all that will change when you discover the variety of Alberta dude ranches that welcome guests each year. In fact, Alberta has a long history of western traditions and is well known throughout much of the western U.S. for their ranching background and cowboy heritage. 

From the border of the Northwest Territories to the southern border with Montana, Alberta’s landscape holds something for everyone: rivers, lakes, badlands, the Rocky Mountains and even glaciers! Alberta ranch vacations take full advantage of this province’s magnificent geography. Alberta dude ranches offer activities for every member of the family: horseback riding, cookouts and barbeques, nature trails, white water rafting, wildlife viewing, golf, pack trips, photography outings, fly fishing, mountain biking, birding, cattle drives, hiking and so much more! Alberta ranch vacations create memories that will last a lifetime!

Ranches in Alberta attract visitors with their national park system, dinosaur digs and the fact that the province has 5 of the 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Imagine visiting the Dinosaur digs in the Alberta Badlands in the morning, working on the Alberta ranch with the cowboys in the afternoon, and relaxing in the evening in the hot tub. You can do all this, plus more, at an Alberta ranch. 

At many Alberta ranches you can choose an independent schedule and explore on your own, or have the ranch arrange activities for you including horseback riding, fishing trips, and city tours.

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience check out Banff Trail Riders.

Photo courtesy of Banff Trail Riders

British Columbia

One excellent way to enjoy all that this special province has to offer is a BC ranch vacation. This portion of western Canada is home to many BC dude ranches, each of which is set against the spectacular backdrop of Canada’s natural beauty. From the rolling hills of the Cariboo to the foothills of the Canadian Rockies to the Coastal Mountains and throughout this spectacular province is sure to provide your family with memories that will last a lifetime. 

Imagine going for a morning fishing trip, spending the afternoon exploring early settler or local Native heritage sites, and relaxing in the evening with your ranch staff and fellow guests. All this is possible when you visit British Colombian Ranches. Your ranch may also organize horseback trips, cattle drives, pack trips, canoeing, and a wide range of outdoor activities for you during your stay. Be sure to ask about winter options as well.

Photo courtesy of Chilcotin Holidays

It’s no wonder that so many people travel to British Columbia each year to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this western Canadian province. From majestic forests to breathtaking mountain vistas to magnificent seascapes and more, BC offers its guests and residents some of the most incredibly stunning scenery available anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. British Columbia dude ranches take advantage of the “beautiful BC” landscape and the rich local Native history to attract visitors.

Check out these Super Natural BC guest ranches: Chilcotin Holidays, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, Three Bars Ranch and Sundance Guest Ranch.

Photo courtesy of Sundance Guest Ranch

Don’t forget that RanchSeeker’s website provides several ways that you can search for your dream western vacation all of which are user-friendly but if you prefer you can also contact Ashlie@ranchseeker.com for additional assistance.

Be sure to subscribe to our blog so that you don’t miss out on other interesting guest ranch related posts.

Happy Trails!

The following blog has been provided by  guest contributor Jon Sutton to share his knowledge about fishing with RanchSeeker's readers. 

Guest ranch vacations are rarely boring affairs. Throughout your stay, you’ll be immersed in the dude ranch lifestyle. You’ll ride horses, learn rope skills, get a taste of ranch culture and enjoy wonderful cuisine. But most of the best guest ranches also give you the chance to do other things too.

For example, many guest ranches border rivers or lakes and provide great opportunities for fishing. And because most guest ranch vacations are family affairs that include the kids, they provide the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to the sport.

It’s really a no-lose proposition: Even if the fishing trip doesn’t go well, you’ll get the chance to spend a couple of hours bonding with your children and sharing the great outdoors with them. But if you plan the trip well, you’ll likely have a fantastic time, catch plenty of fish and take home photos of your kids showing off their catch.

Just try to embrace the tips below to ensure that your kids enjoy the best possible fishing experience. If things go well, you may spark a lifelong love of the sport, and help them develop an appreciation of the natural world.

1. Outfit your kids with age- and size-appropriate equipment.

Too often, kids are forced to fish with a parent’s hand-me-down rod, which is essentially guaranteed to be too large and complicated for them. Instead, you’ll want to outfit them with something befitting their size and skill level. A 5- to 6-foot-long spinning or spincasting combo is the ideal rod and reel for most kids who are learning to fish.

2. Pick a good location to fish with your kids.

You have to put your bait where the fish are if you expect to catch any, so don’t just go down to the lake and started casting about randomly. Instead, look for places near vegetation or man-made structures like docks, or where the depth changes abruptly. These are the types of locations in which fish often congregate. 

3. Get started early or wait until later in the day.

Fish often exhibit daily activity cycles; they’ll become active and feed during some times and rest during others. In the spring, summer and early fall, these active periods are often most pronounced near dawn and dusk, when the sun is low in the sky. Additionally, these times often offer the most comfortable fishing conditions for you and the kids.

4. Target the species your kids will have the best chance of catching.

Don’t set your kids up for disappointment by trying to catch largemouth bass, walleye or pike. Instead, try to increase your children’s chances of catching fish by targeting abundant, easy-to-catch species. This typically means targeting catfish and bluegill (as well as their relatives), but perch and rainbow trout can also be easy to catch in small ponds that are stocked with them.

5. Use real or live baits, rather than artificial lures.

Fancy artificial lures may be productive and fun to use for experienced anglers, but fishing novices will generally struggle to use them and end up snagging them on the bottom. Instead, use natural or live baits when teaching your kids to fish. For example, small worms, crickets and small dough balls are very effective for catching bluegill, while hot dog slices, grapes and shrimp are excellent catfish baits.

6. Keep things light, positive and fun.

Chances are, it may take a little while for your kids to get their first nibbles. This can lead to frustration, which can cause them to lose interest in fishing altogether. Accordingly, you’ll need to maintain a positive attitude and ensure that they’re still entertained and happy while learning to be patient. So, make sure to learn plenty of kid-friendly jokes and allow them frequent breaks to explore the shoreline or chase frogs, if necessary. They’ll usually regain their interest in a few minutes and do so with renewed determination.

***

If you follow these tips and tricks, you’ll set yourself up for a great day on the water and help your kids form memories that’ll last a lifetime. So be sure to give fishing a try on your next guest ranch vacation – you’ll be glad you did.

Just be sure that you familiarize yourself with the fishing rules and regulations of the state you’re visiting and that you obtain all necessary licenses before doing so. You don’t want to taint your child’s first fishing trip with an unpleasant encounter with law enforcement.

In the meantime, cruise on over to Outdoor Empire and check out their comprehensive article about taking your kids on their first fishing trip. There, you’ll learn more tips and tricks to make your kids first trip a great one.

Happy Trails!

Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, just 16 miles east of Sandpoint, Id.  Spanning over 75 years and four generations, riding and herding cattle across the spectacular 2,000 acre ranch property has been their passion and pride for this dedicated working ranch family.  Since 1991, when Western Pleasures first opened its doors to guests, the ranch family and staff has also provided an unforgettable riding experience to its guests, whether newbies or oldtimers, from daily trail rides to helping herd cattle from one pasture to another and a thrilling night ride under starry skies complete with a campfire cookout to get a real taste of cowboy life.

All-inclusive summer packages offer twice-daily trail riding sessions on specially trained ranch bred horses. Guests are carefully matched with their mounts to ensure maximum riding enjoyment throughout their stay, Personalized programs are also available for guests who usually arrive from Sunday to Saturday to take full advantage of the many exciting on and off-ranch adventures. In addition to couples, groups and singles, families are especially welcomed during the summer months when kids' riding programs and activities are in full swing, so parents get to enjoy some downtime with lots of family fun. Along with its excellent riding programs, which include lessons/riding in the indoor arena on rainy days, Western Pleasures has a varied array of non-riding outdoor activities to please every family member, be it skeet shooting, archery, fat tire biking, hiking, children's playground, recreational room games and TV westerns, wagon rides around the property or a soothing soak in the hot tub after an exhilarating day spent outside. Off-ranch activities available include swimming, boat rides or kayaking expeditions on a nearby lake.

Accommodation choices are cosy lodge rooms or spacious, comfortable fully-equipped cabins dotted around the ranch, suitable for families and groups. Included in the packages are three gourmet meals daily in the large lodge dining room or guests can opt to access the lodge restaurant or self-cater in the cabins.

Ranch amenities also consist of a library for some quiet reading pleasure, access to Wi-Fi, an outdoor seating area and a large old-fashioned veranda to sit back on and appreciate the majestic mountain vistas or watch the wranglers bringing up the horses. Just a few of the many thoughtful touches designed to please and expand the western guest ranch experience. What summer vacation could possibly be more unique, happy and healthy for a family than an active, outdoor, fun-filled guest ranch riding staycation with the friendly folk at Western Pleasures Guest Ranch, where you arrive as guests and depart as family....yahoo!

Ranchseeker is just a click away from helping you find this and many other fine ranch properties for that perfect summer vacation for you, family and friends!

Happy Trails!