Cattle ranching and hay production have been the mainstay of K-T Ranch, but its fishing and wildlife resources make this property a one-of-a-kind sportsman’s nirvana. Fed by the fertile limestone geology of the White River Plateau, the White River is perfect habitat for rainbow and brown trout and native whitefish that are measured in pounds rather than inches. An exceptional biomass of insect and forage fish life produces trout that frequently reach over 20 inches in length, and 4 to 7 pounds. Flyfishers in particular will delight in the long runs and riffles of the ¾ of a mile of river on the ranch as hatches of caddis, stoneflies and mayflies are heavy for most of the summer months.
The eastern half of the ranch is dominated by the meanders of Lone Tree Creek, which offers ¾ of a mile of professionally enhanced stream fishing. Lone Tree Creek receives an influx of line-popping browns and rainbows from the North Platte, particularly in the spring when the main river is running strong. Browns up to 30” have been caught in this small stream. Grass banks and literally dozens of bend pool make Lone Treek Creek a great place for anglers of any skill level. The ranch’s stillwater fishing potential is evidenced by one existing oxbow pond that regularly produces rainbows and browns over five pounds, and some close to ten. With abundant water available, many more trophy ponds could be developed.
Fishing is the prime draw at K-T Ranch, but excellent hunting is available as well. Big game attracted to the ranch’s bottomlands include trophy mule deer, antelope and elk. Mule deer over 200 inches frequent the fields and bottomlands. The ranch qualifies for landowner deer tags with over the counter elk tags available. Waterfowl hunting is also superb on the ranch, with scores of ducks and geese attracted to the river, ponds and many acres of wetlands.
Recognizing the value of maintaining the natural habitat on the ranch, previous owners have placed the racnh under conservation easement with the Yampa Valley Land Trust. Existing improvements on L-T Ranch include a comfortable owner’s residence, manager’s home, bunkhouse, barn, shop, corrals and outbuildings. Those interested in building a new home or lodge will find several excellent sites on the property.
Meeker is one of Colorado’s most attractive communities, blending a ranching and tourism economy beautifully. With a population of 2,200, it has a friendly, small-town feel, but provides all the necessary amenities. Coulter Field, one of the region’s finest small airports, is a ten-minute drive from the ranch.
Available properties with the fishing potential of K-T Ranch are rare finds. We at Harrigan Land Company believe that this is one of the finest livewater properties in the Rockies. If your heart is looking for a place where the genuine West still lives, where bald eagles soar, rivers run free and trout have broad shoulders, look no further.
Harrigan Land Company represented the buyer.
