Big game hunting at the Horseshoe Bar Ranch
Offering Mule Deer, Elk, Aoudad Sheep, and Bighorn Sheep Hunting
We are currently booked for the 2026 big game season with repeat clients for elk, deer, and Aoudad Sheep. The elk herd continues to grow in this unit with several very large bulls taken every year. The mule deer herd is increasing as well in both the overall numbers of deer and the quality of bucks. We limit harvest with the goal of producing trophy elk and mule deer. Due to the abundance of elk on the ranch, especially in the late winter, we offer combination cow elk and Aoudad Sheep hunts in February and March. We provide great lodging and access to over 30,000 acres of deeded land and BLM. The hunting is classic western style hunting with a lot of glassing big country. Hunting is not easy but a great experience. Please contact us if interested in 2026-2027 big game hunting.
The John Day Canyon has thriving herd of California Bighorn Sheep. Based on recent ODFW survey the herd is growing with over 1100 sheep in the Lower John Day Canyon. Big game population survey data | Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife Several Boone & Crocket bighorns have been taken in the Canyon over the last decade scoring over 180 B&C. Boone and Crockett Club | The odds of drawing a tag are very low. If awarded a tag, please contact us for guided hunts and access to the Ranch.
Why do Bighorn Sheep thrive in the John Day Canyon? Two University of Idaho student researchers are researching the reasons why. Here is a link to their research.
U of I students uncover why bighorn sheep thrive disease-free in John Day | University of Idaho
Big Game Hunting
Testimonial
Hunting and fishing are always great! The lodge and cabins are fantastic! We’ll be returning for our fourth season for deer and elk. Thanks for sharing your fantastic ranch with us.
Thanks,
Guy Wolcott
Guy with his 2025 Bull
Aoudad sheep Hunting
Testimonial
The accommodations of your ranch are nothing short of top notch. The ability to allow our wife's and children enjoy your first-class cabins and play along the river while we hunted satisfied all parties involved. The amount of ground available to hunt took all 5 days to cover effectively, while side by side access made it enjoyable for our older hunters. All tag holders had the opportunity to fill their tag, though some failed to capitalize which to me is the definition of western hunting. Not to mention a few bonus Aoudad on the trip. We enjoyed our time thoroughly and look forward to coming back next year!
Daniel Minchk
2026 Aoudad Sheep