Bison:
We are currently booking our winter/spring 2020 bison hunts.  The number of animals available will fluctuate each year so please contact us for availability.  There are three classes of animals that we hunt. 

The first class would be considered trophy bulls in their prime, typically 5-6 years old and weighing between 1,800 and 2,000 pounds.  These bulls are as big as they are going to get and will make impressive mounts.

The second class are young bulls between 3 and 3 1/2 years old, weighing between 1,100 - 1,300 lbs.  Young bulls at this age are considered in their prime for meat quality.  While these are often referred to as "meat animals" they will still be mature looking animals and make fine mounts as well.

The third class are open females.  These are cows over three years old that have not had a calf in two seasons.  Once a cow is "open" two years in a row her contribution to the herd has expired and she becomes a meat animal.  Mature females typically weigh between 900 - 1,100 lbs. 

Our bison hunts are conducted between November 1 and March 31 while the animal's coats are in their best condition.  For the best meat quality it is also preferable to have freezing temperatures when transporting animals to the processor.  

Prices:
Our prices are based on the the current USDA market price for average hanging weight.  Hanging weight is usually close to 50% of live weight.

Trophy Bulls: $5,000
Young Bulls: $3,250
Open Cow: $2,850

Processing needs to be arranged by you well in advance of your hunt.  Contact the processor as soon as you schedule your hunt to make sure the scheduling will accommodate both parties.  Processing fees and shipping arrangements are an additional cost that you will negotiate directly with the meat locker and will vary depending on what cuts and products you request.  Our processor is Heritage Meats, Leoti, KS.  (620) 375-5151.   

We have a tractor and will help you load your animal for transport to the processor.  We can also transport your animal to the processor for you for a fee of $150.  

If you will require the services of a quality taxidermist we recommend Lori's Taxidermy in Lamar, CO.  (719) 691-9795.  Taxidermy services must also be arranged by you well in advance of your hunt.  

Mode of Operation:
One of our primary requirements for you as a prospective bison hunter is that you be proficient with your weapon and be able to make a clean kill with the first shot.  You will need at least a .30 caliber rifle using 165 grain bullets or larger.  Rifle calibers that will work fine would be 30-06, .338, 300 Win Mag, 45-70, etc.  Bullet selection is critical.  Copper solids or bonded bullets should be used to ensure adequate penetration.  Ballistic tip and ELD bullets have a thin jacket, fragment too easily and will not get the job done.  Experienced bow hunters are also welcome.  The schedule is up to you while you’re here and we will conduct the hunt in any reasonable manner you wish.   
    
TASTE:
People are rapidly discovering the deliciously healthy taste of bison / buffalo. Buffalo meat tastes similar to fine beef, with just a slightly sweeter and richer flavor. Bison is naturally flavorful and tender and can be prepared much the same as beef. Publications ranging from Bon Apetit to Sunset magazines are heralding bison as the meat of the future.

VALUE:
Bison falls into the gourmet or specialty meat category at your supermarket or meat market. The value of buffalo is not what you pay, but what you get in return. Nutritionally you are getting more protein and nutrients with fewer calories and less fat. Buffalo is a dense meat that tends to satisfy you more while eating less.

HEALTH:
Bison are handled as little as possible. They spend their lives on grass, much as they always have, with no time in the feedlot. They are not subjected to questionable drugs, chemicals or hormones. The members of the NBA feel so strongly about this that they have a resolution opposing the use of these substances in the production of Bison for meat.

NUTRITION:
Research by Dr. M. Marchello at North Dakota State University has shown that the meat from Bison is a highly nutrient dense food because of the proportion of protein, fat, mineral, and fatty acids to its caloric value. Comparisons to other meat sources have also shown that Bison has a greater concentration of iron as well as some of the essential fatty acids necessary for human well being. Readers' Digest magazine has even listed bison as one of the five foods women should eat because of the high iron content.