To guide or not to guide.

For many who are contemplating a hunting or fishing trip to a new area, it is advisable to research the many outfitters in the area. For the most part, these outfitters have excellent resources to guide you to the type of adventure you are after. Although a guide is not always necessary, I feel the "local knowledge" is invaluable, especially on your first few trips. In fact, I often hire the services of a guide in areas I am unfamiliar and find that the techniques, equipment and experience of the guide is generally an eye opener for me. For instance, I've implemented many casting techniques learned in Oregon Steelhead fishing in my home waters finding it more effective than the techniques I formerly used. For the "do it yourselfer" make sure you take advantage of the local shops as many locals convene to tell stories in these shops and an incredible amount of valuable information is shared. They also have all the maps and equipment you may need. Keep in mind, however, you will not get the insider information unless you are accompanied by a guide.

Real estate features, an outdoorsman's perspective...

In SW Colorado many of the prospects looking to purchase real estate are looking for specific amenities in a property. Some of these attributes are live water, bordering public land, privacy, scenic property and views. Of these, the two that most drive premium prices are live water and public land. A property that has some of these features and is nicely located is a sound investment. It is also important to research how near electric, phone and a domestic water source is to the propery. Because we are blessed to have an abundant amount of public land in SW Colorado and northern NM, developable land is limited; therefore, properties that attain these wonderful attributes can be a premium. However, I have found that these kind of properties are always in demand and appreciate very well. One note, not only outdoorsmen appreciate these attributes so as Will Rogers said, "Buy land and wait, don't wait to buy land."

The Real Estate Part

One excellent method to take advantage of the wonderful land opportunities in SW Colorado is to form a limited liability company or syndicate of partners that can pool their resources and purchase a property with the intent of a long term investment. The advantage, aside from the purchasing power and limited risk, is the ability to utilize the property unlike a stock portfolio you will never see. I can help you find a property that is strategically located to high quality hunting and fishing! I can also help you form the LLC or syndicate of your choice and I even have a pool of investors that are ready to move on property so all you have to do is say the word!

Fall Fishing in the SW and Real Estate

Early November and the weather is in the 60's each day. Now that hunting season is winding down a bit (although I am headed to New Mexico deer hunting next week and Oryx hunting in mid-December) the fishing bug begins to set in. Late Fall may be one of the best times as there tends to be few people and wonderful water/weather conditions. I received two reports from the San Juan River quality waters that the fishing is incredible with one report from my friend and guide, AC, estimating 40 hookups per day. The San Juan is world class fishing and I'm betting that there are only a handful of fisherman on the river today...not a bad option! Especially considering there is probably a good chance for a late afternoon hatch as we have a low front moving in this weekend.

However, because of time and responsibilities today, I am opting for a few hour frame on the Animas River Gold Medal waters south of Durango. I am going to try terrestrial droppers behind a large Stimulator and see if I can get some of the large Browns that have just finished their Fall dance to take advantage of the last days before winter. I will let you know how the day was and I hope you are doing the same!