A trail horse

[Mello-Yello]

I am currently contemplating getting a trail horse. I have free use of a horse barn and pasture (in-laws) and miles of old logging roads behind their property. I've got a pretty good grasp on what to look for in a horse (and a few experts assisting me) and am sure I can figure out the necessary basics to get me up and running (and again, a few experts to assist with that too). What I don't have is anyone with much experience using a horse come hunting season.

If I go this route, my plan is to first work with the one horse until I feel we're both ready to set out into the wilderness, then obtain another (or a mule) as a pack animal.

My question (and request) is....what information those with experience can share on the pros and cons of trying to do this myself, rather than just hire an outfitter for drop camps. I'm certain owning my own stock is going to be much, much more expensive than the drop-camp approach, so I guess I'm mostly looking for the "why you do it" information from those that insist on 'doing it themselves'. Of course, any information whether good or bad will be eagerly accepted.

Also, do you know of any good books on the subject?

Thanks in advance!

M-Y

[Hunt'nFish]

It's a big commitment, and yes it'll be WAY more expensive than you think.
Asside from intial cost of stock, you have tack, trailer, feed, vet bills, shoeing costs, etc.

But the big paybay is in the freedom to go where you want, when you want.
Hunt'nFish

[James in Idaho]

Don't buy anything without a vet check (find a good large animal vet in advance), right now the price of horses is low, but hay is very high. Over here, we have to feed in the winter and second cut horse hay is now pushing $160 a ton, IF you can find it. It is not hard to find a well broke 10 to 15 year old horse, good luck. Those four legs sure get up the hill better than my two legs!

[Chesapeake]

Its very expensive!!!!!! The term "Horse Poor" is very valid.

Also I couldnt imagine handling the animal for an entire year to just use it a week or two.

I think horses and livestock are something you do because you love it, and then you use them to hunt. I dont think it wise to go at it the other way around. Also I wouldnt recomend getting a horse that I didnt have facilities for. I dont know your relationship with the In-laws, but I can just about garantee a horse will strain it.


My advice is to keep your money in your wallet and rent a horse when you need one. Let someone else bear the burden the rest of the year.

[scottishsetter]

Check into Icelandic Horses, 900yrs of breeding to treat you well or be eaten has its effect. A little late to mature (4 yrs) then iron tough. Get with a trail riding Club for wilderness 'rides' and see what you can learn and what you like.

[Gun Rod Bow]

I could hunt without a dog too. But it wouldn't be the same.

I have seen a lot of wrecks by newbie horsemen packing in.

How to pack is really something to learn.

You really should consider looking into a club where you can learn from those who know.

Getting on a horse and riding around is fine.

But, what knowledge is important is...

What do you do with a horse while you are hunting.

How steep is too steep.

When do you beat their butt and when do you back off.

What can I ask my horse to do, and not do.

How do I care for my horse in the wilderness.

There is a reason they call it horse sense.

For me, I like having my own saddle horse. I've been through a few. Had to put down my 30 year old mule last week.

I have had times when I literally choked up watching my stock work for me. It is a level of pride and admiration you can only understand if you've seen it happen.

Best of luck on your venture. Horses are like employees. If you get a bad one, just fire him and find another. The longer you put it off, the worse it gets.

The cost of a good horse is cheap compare to having to try to make a good one out of a bad one. Don't go cheap.

A good stout gelding that I would ride in the woods will run $3,500-$5,000. Closer to 5 IMO.





In the Gila Wilderness in NM 2 falls ago. My Molly mule doing her thing.

Man I was fat.


One last thing. I would recomend getting horses to pack. I can ride or pack all my horses. Mules are great, but a set of problems all their own.

[traks44]

I have one for sale

[Santiam338]

GRB,

Good looking ponies..


Sounds like you have a good set up with barn and pasture...I like have a good horse around and consider the trouble well worth it...I don't let any moss grow on my horse...I keep him pretty busy all year long...

If all you are going to do is use him a couple weeks a year I would say no,but if you want a good buddy to spend time with exploring the country then go for it...The key word here is "Good Horse"...There ain't much worse than a bad one so have some patience and find a "Good one"..

[Ryan Pultz]

I use to love ridding horses as a teen and kid. We grew up with a set of twins next door that had five horse we would go and ride all the time. I miss it but alas being like 330lbs I would have to have a draft horse for me to ride any more maybe when I loose more weight rp

[nakoa]

i haven't hunted off of horse's but i have been around them all my life. they are just one more tool to use. there are some units in oregon (minum) that is pack in only and i do know somebody that goes in every year and gets a buck and bull, but he uses his horses year round. you have to think about if you are going to shoot from your horse, some horse you have to put vasiline in there nose for the smell, if you have more than one you have to figure out which horse will be best for leading and which horse or horses will pack they maybe all good saddle horses but not good pack horses. if you mkae the commitment it will pay off, but it is a year round commitment. just do your reseach and good luck.

[scottishsetter]

Santiam338; That's a good horse. Deer legs on the withers and horns into his flank. Most horses would dance in that condition.

[Gun Rod Bow]

Originally Posted by scottishsetter

Santiam338; That's a good horse. Deer legs on the withers and horns into his flank. Most horses would dance in that condition.

On a buck I usually punch a hole mid ribs and stick the saddle horn through the hole. Tie the legs to the cinch, and pull the head all the way around the cantle so the horns are up on the rump. But most of my bucks have really small horns.

A good saddle horse that will pack meat is the way to go. Like you see with Santiam and my pics, ride in wherever you want, then you can lead a packed animal a long way.

IMO that is one reason if you are only going to have a few animals, I'd stick with horses. Better for dual purpose IMO for the average guy.

I have no issues with a GOOD riding mule. Key word, GOOD. Mules are great if you use them all the time. And if you aren't an old hand with stock, for the most part, horses are going to be easier.

[scottishsetter]

My wife's quarter horse has one blind eye from a packing accident. She(the horse); with the previous owner; fell off the trail with an elk pack hunting the Minam. My hat's off to experienced horsemen who pack in with horses. I could help but I don't think of trying it myself. Color of the horse during elk season is a liability that one needs to "orange up" and constantly be wary of the other hunters. A good corral in elk camp would help. I've heard of a tyed up horse in the night smelled a bear; busted out and ran with lead about 3 miles+.
Study knots and balance the loads, always.

[Joe]

I'm pretty new to horses and no expert by any means so I really appreciate the info posted on here.

The only thing that I know for sure is that if you don't enjoy riding year round then owning a horse is a bad idea. There is a lot of cost and work involved. To start with you need to feed twice a day, EVERY DAY which ties you down and really cuts into other activities. Not saying it's not worth it just understand the commitment up front.

Any more info on packing into wilderness areas would be really appreciated! Do you get them on a primarily grain diet before hand and pack grain? Ours always get hay and I'm afraid if I switch diets on them I will end up with a horse with colic way back in the middle of nowhere.

[Ildor]

Find some experienced riding buddies. Check the local feed store, the county posse and organizations like Oregon Equestrian Trails, there is likely a chapter in your area. I learned everything I know thus far by spending time in the saddle next to good horse folks. Careful though, just like hunting, fishing, rifles, bows, etc. there a lot of people out there that are willing share some good and helpful insights but there is a lot of not so helpful insight floating around. The other side of that is there is more than one way to skin a cat, or in this case pack in on horseback.

[Mello-Yello]

Thanks for the replies guys!

I'm reading a lot about warmbloods (1/2 draft) making excellent trailhorses (and buddies). Easy going temperament and very sure-footed.

Anyone else heard or seen the same? There's one available locally and word is it's all of the above. I'm told it's been on a few deep pack-ins without an issue. My concern right now is whether or not a full QW saddle will fit it and will it fit in a reg. horse trailer or put too much weight on one side of the trailer should a reg-size horse be next to it.

Secondly, I've access to a very used but very high quality saddle (Potts Longhorn). Problem is (I think), it's a roping saddle and I'm guessing while it might be ok at first, I'll want to get a western or ranch type saddle for the longer rides. I intend to seek out a good used name-brand saddle.

Traks44, what do you have?

GRB, you trailered all the way to NM on that hunt? wow! Curious, how long can you travel before having to let the stock out to stretch or whatever?

In response to a few concerns and better clarify my intentions;

I've been annoying my in-laws for....wow, 20 years next month and they still complain they don't see me enough. Our relationship is sound.

I don't intend to get a horse for hunting season so much as am looking for a new hobby, lifestyle if you will. Wifey and I will be suffering empty-nest syndrome soon (oh dang) and while she has no problem finding more than enough to do, I'm more the the recluse that doesn't need a huge circle of friends around me all the time.

A lifelong bowhunter, I've had some great successes (and failures) but find myself each year wishing there was more to it. More to the overall experience if you will. My heart is pushing to go wilderness but my 50 year old legs and back are fighting back.

Again, thanks for the replies so far.

M-Y

[traks44]

Originally Posted by Mello-Yello

Thanks for the replies guys!

I'm reading a lot about warmbloods (1/2 draft) making excellent trailhorses (and buddies). Easy going temperament and very sure-footed.

Anyone else heard or seen the same? There's one available locally and word is it's all of the above. I'm told it's been on a few deep pack-ins without an issue. My concern right now is whether or not a full QW saddle will fit it and will it fit in a reg. horse trailer or put too much weight on one side of the trailer should a reg-size horse be next to it.

Secondly, I've access to a very used but very high quality saddle (Potts Longhorn). Problem is (I think), it's a roping saddle and I'm guessing while it might be ok at first, I'll want to get a western or ranch type saddle for the longer rides. I intend to seek out a good used name-brand saddle.

Traks44, what do you have?

GRB, you trailered all the way to NM on that hunt? wow! Curious, how long can you travel before having to let the stock out to stretch or whatever?

In response to a few concerns and better clarify my intentions;

I've been annoying my in-laws for....wow, 20 years next month and they still complain they don't see me enough. Our relationship is sound.

I don't intend to get a horse for hunting season so much as am looking for a new hobby, lifestyle if you will. Wifey and I will be suffering empty-nest syndrome soon (oh dang) and while she has no problem finding more than enough to do, I'm more the the recluse that doesn't need a huge circle of friends around me all the time.

A lifelong bowhunter, I've had some great successes (and failures) but find myself each year wishing there was more to it. More to the overall experience if you will. My heart is pushing to go wilderness but my 50 year old legs and back are fighting back.

Again, thanks for the replies so far.

M-Y

I have this.....

I know I know, the saddle is a little far back...this is halfway through a workout with a new saddle which I do not yet have a breast collar for.

He is only 7 years old,AQHA and for sale although he is a workin horse and gets bored on only trails, is gonna make someone a heck of a ropin horse when I am done with him.

He is great on trails and will go anywhere or do anything, but not for a new rider.

[skein]

Welp, (as you taught me to say) for the past couple of years I've been going down pretty much the same path as you outline. Here's some of the things I've discovered:

* I had noooo idea what I didn't know. There is a LOT to learn, especially if you want to be a good horseman/owner.

* Many of the people who have horses don't ride, even though they say they do. Many of them have broken horses (not to be confused with 'broke' horses).

* Owning a horse will seriously change your lifestyle. They are expensive, time-consuming, and expensive and time-consuming (yes, I said that twice).

* They are not dogs. They do not train like dogs, respond like dogs, nor mind like dogs. They are horses - and they take a lot of pride in that fact. They also outweigh you 4 or 5 to 1, so you need to make them WANT to do your bidding, not be forced into it. It is a true partnership. When the partnership works, and you see it, it will move you somewhere deep inside.

* So... you may, like me, find yourself getting really attached to your horse, and letting other favorite pastimes slip away because you would rather go ride. For example, I skipped the Tunaholics Convention this weekend and instead worked for five days at a Ranch Sorting and Team Penning event. I also did not watch Monday night football all season because that's our Team Penning night. And as soon as I finish typing this I'm going to go saddle up and practice some side passing.

I would never have imagined I would enjoy horses as much as I do. But then my whole life has been an adventure of one sort or another.

PS. Buy an over-wide, over-height slant-load trailer; you won't have to worry about weight distribution that way.

Skein

[Gun Rod Bow]

Good advice so far.

Traks- he looks good to me. A bold strong horse is usually going to be a little bit of a hand full.

Yes I hauled to NM. We didn't stop driving down (30 hrs) and watered them a couple times (drop down doors are nice)

My wife hauled to Oklahoma and Missisippi last year. But she put up at horsey hotels along the way. My stock isn't as pampered. But I wouldn't want her testing the insurance policy on her show horses by tying them out behind a motel either.

We stopped on the way home and tied them out next to the trailer (sometimes you have to look for a place that will work out for that)

I have always been a quarter horse guy. But, it's what they have between their ears, not on paper that counts.

Warmbloods...hmmm. Doesn't tell the whole story. What are the two halves? A "warm blood" is basically a hot blood (Thoroughbred etc..) crossed on a cold blood (draft horse). The combinations can vary.

A buddy of mine has a Percheron (small draft) cross that is a heck of a mountain horse.

They are used a lot for jumping, eventing, etc. Be a pretty big tall horse for a mountain horse.

My advice (and everyone will have their own) is to stick with a good working Quarter horse. For a first horse. You may consider something 10 years old or more. Something bomb proof that the kids can ride.

Get them vet checked. x-ray legs and feet.

[llama77]

M-Y

Im not in the same boat as you, but mine just left the dock.

After packing with llamas for years, thier age, my age , and the closing of the lord flat road forced me into a decision. Quit hunting there or get a horse or two.

The fact that my wife suggested I needed something to do with my daughter sealed the deal. So last summer we bought our first horse.


I think Skein said it best, I had noooooo idea what I didnt know!!!!

I mean, Ive watched a lot of John wayne movies, you just get on pull the reins left to go left and right to go right and back to stop right? what could be so hard about that?

We opted not to take the horse last year because we werent ready.

My daughter joined the high school equestrian team and we learned we knew even less.

I do believe however that my experience with dog training and with the llamas has helped a great deal. Ive been able to make good progress on groundwork by myself.

We have spent some time with private lessons and that has been a huge benefit. I learned years ago with my first dog that sometimes its best to get some help.

We are looking for horse number two.


So given my limited experience, heres a few of the things Im preparing for.

Water. Have to have good access to water.

getting or finding or packing sufficient feed

Vet care in the wilderness. Being as prepared as possible.

A good fitting saddle. I had my first trail experience last year. first time on a horse in 30 years and I rode 16 miles in one day. A comfortable saddle that fits you and the horse is a must.

Security. Have to be able to secure the animals. Years ago we ran into some guys who were looking for their horses. They ran 16 miles or so from Lord Flat back to warnocks corral from a lightning storm.

My plan is to tie seperately. Hopefully they wont leave their buddies? Any one else tell me right or wrong on this one. But losing one is better than all!

Conditioning. I had the misfortune of spending a night in hells canyon a few years ago because I pushed the llamas to hard. Spent the night with the outfitter at Summers point. Took a lot of crap for having llamas but he pulled me aside later and said hed seen a lot of horses down in the hole with the same issue. So get them in shape.

These are just a few.

Ill have the advantage of my daughter riding a lot during better weather, plus like skein Im finding my interests have changed. And Im looking forward to a lot of riding.

We bought a 9 year old mustang. I had been advised not to get one but when we went and saw him I changed my mind. He was and is extremely calm. Nothing much bothers him except a steel tape measure being bent back and forth. Ive had quail flush right at his feet and he didint blink an eye. Mustangs are noted for having good feet. But yesterday he suffered a stone cut , so there are no absoulutes.

He has had issues but from what Ive seen at equestrian events and practices, they all have isses. The trainers weve worked with have said he has "good" issues. Ones that are more easily corrected. And though we havent been on the trail yet, I expect him to work out fine.

Gun rod Bow,
your second picture down looks like the Lord flat road, is it?

[Gun Rod Bow]

Originally Posted by llama77

Gun rod Bow,
your second picture down looks like the Lord flat road, is it?

No.

[Ildor]

Originally Posted by Gun Rod Bow

Good advice so far.

Traks- he looks good to me. A bold strong horse is usually going to be a little bit of a hand full.

Yes I hauled to NM. We didn't stop driving down (30 hrs) and watered them a couple times (drop down doors are nice)

My wife hauled to Oklahoma and Missisippi last year. But she put up at horsey hotels along the way. My stock isn't as pampered. But I wouldn't want her testing the insurance policy on her show horses by tying them out behind a motel either.

We stopped on the way home and tied them out next to the trailer (sometimes you have to look for a place that will work out for that)

I have always been a quarter horse guy. But, it's what they have between their ears, not on paper that counts.

Warmbloods...hmmm. Doesn't tell the whole story. What are the two halves? A "warm blood" is basically a hot blood (Thoroughbred etc..) crossed on a cold blood (draft horse). The combinations can vary.

A buddy of mine has a Percheron (small draft) cross that is a heck of a mountain horse.

They are used a lot for jumping, eventing, etc. Be a pretty big tall horse for a mountain horse.

My advice (and everyone will have their own) is to stick with a good working Quarter horse. For a first horse. You may consider something 10 years old or more. Something bomb proof that the kids can ride.

Get them vet checked. x-ray legs and feet.

I had a similar reaction when reading what you posted about a warmblood. I'd lean more towards a Quarter Horse or even a Tennessee Walker. You don't want a real tall horse on the trail or in the mountains, you'll be hitting your head on the rafters so to speak. Quarter Horses in particular are generally more level headed. I'll also second what gunrodbow said about 10 years or older. A younger horse is a green horse and there's a saying in the horse world that says green on green=black and blue. The only time I've been hurt is on a green horse, fractured a vertabrate. That was a painful half mile walk back to the barn, thankfully we didn't make it any farther on that ride before he started to storm. I was short on time and got in a hurry so most of that was my own dumb fault but that's another subject entirely.

[Joe]

We've got a couple Tennessee Walkers and they have done very well for us riding a couple hundred miles thru different wilderness areas. You can sure cover a lot of ground in a hurry.

If I was to buy another horse right now I would really look into Friesians as well. Basically for no other reason than they are just amazing looking animals that are supposed to be solid trail horses.

Horses are a lot of fun if you get off on the right foot and I think that is the key. I have a friend that went thru five (I think) inexpensive horses before she got one that worked out. There sure is a reason some are less expensive than others.

Now I just need to sell my North River that is wasting away in the garage...

[Eaglecap]

Lots of good information listed above. If you do get into this and want to start packing get the book "Packin in on horses and mules" by Smoke Elser.
There is a lot of equipment on the market for the weekend horseman/packer. Very usefull but not quite the same as the old tried and true. For packing learn to manty your loads and to tie a basket hitch, barrel hitch and a diamond. There are many other great hitches out there but you can do it all with these three bsaics and then learn more as time goes on.
Good luck.

[skein]

Okay, I can't resist throwing up a pic of my horse, back behind one of those locked gates. He's a quarter horse, 13 years old, and very stable and alert on the trail. He's not my team penning horse but rather my solid boy for getting me out there and back.



He doesn't miss anything, and really comes alive in the woods. Our other horses seem to draw confidence from him and follow him down the narrow stuff or across the water or wherever. He's a good boy.

Skein

[gottafish]

Originally Posted by skein

Okay, I can't resist throwing up a pic of my horse, back behind one of those locked gates. He's a quarter horse, 13 years old, and very stable and alert on the trail. He's not my team penning horse but rather my solid boy for getting me out there and back.



He doesn't miss anything, and really comes alive in the woods. Our other horses seem to draw confidence from him and follow him down the narrow stuff or across the water or wherever. He's a good boy.

Skein

Man your boy and santanms Snoopy sure make me wish I had the room for one. Nice horses

[Santiam338]

I am like Skein,I didn't really know if I wanted a horse until I got one...Now I find I can't get along without one...Well, I guess I could get along without one,I should say I DON"T want to...LOL

He is a 5 year old Quarter/Appy and I got him from my daughter when she got her divorce..I figured she could always get him back that way...My wife rides and I also thought that we would have more in common if we both had horses..I am really lucky he even turned out as he was only 3 when I got him and never been out of an arena...He was in training for team penning...I didn't have much interest in that except maybe to watch every now and then...

I took him and headed for the hills..We have devoloped a relationship over the next couple years. He trusts that I won't hurt him and I do the same..He has been learning about the great outdoors and I about horses..Needless to say my daughter ain't getting him back...

That buck on his back in the earlier pics is the first one he ever saw..I just throwed him on and turned him loose...He followed the mile back to the truck...I am only holding him trying to keep in in the picture frame of the self timer...He would always move...LOL

Now back to the original question on trail horses..I will give you my opinion from what I have learned,which ain't much...

A dedicated trail and hunting horse should not be to tall ..15 hands or under...Getting on a tall horse on rough ground can be a pain.Mine is 15"1 and I ain't ashamed to go find a stump...I am not as limber as I used to be.. Lots of times I wish he was shorter...My brothers horse is only 13 hands and 800 pounds...Easy to get on and off and tough as nails...He likes his little horse and wants nothing to do with our monsters..My brother is only 160 pounds and they seem to fit well...This is also the first deer he ever saw..He is half arab and not sure about the other half...



I wouldn't get too keyed up on a certain breed...Ability is far more important...A good horse is a good horse no matter the breed...I would like to have a Foxtrotter though...LOL

Get one of those panniers that fit over a saddle...Not to do any serious packing but they come in handy...In the earlier pic of shooting our bows off the horse,you can see mine on the back...Its red..Here it is again with a rather large spring bear in it all quartered up..It was to large to try and throw on whole or I would have tried just to test the reaction I would have got...How am I going to know if I don't try...LOL



Good luck..If you get a horse and want to do some riding give us a yell..I have a buddy that is quite knowledgable on horses and a great help to me....He does get upset though if I don't do things quite "THE COWBOY WAY"

[James in Idaho]

Owning a saddle and not a horse (which, btw is not a bad way to go!), I get to ride lots of different horses. Mostly unregistered grade quarterhorse or appy types, with some arab mixes thrown in. Geldings and mares. Arab and arab mixes are tough (endurance wise), but some have a less than comfy gait. Big horses are usually a smoother ride, and if you're in a mixed group those little 13 and 14 handers can beat you up trying to stay up with the walkers. I don't believe there is such a thing as a bomb proof horse, horses are a prey animal and all of them at some point will see a "dragon". I've been lucky on the trail not to get dumped off, even during the rattlesnake incident this summer. It was a little arab, might be registered, the gal that owns him was going through kemo and happy that someone would work him. "Good trail horse" is different than "good mountain horse", so he thought every stick was a snake. Got interesting when that stick turned out to be a less than happy rattler. I think the only reason I didn't get dumped was the only place I could see to land was on said snake. If you're on a big horse, yeah ya learn to find a stump or a rock. Oh, and geldings seem to be a lot easier to live with than a mare.

Buy a good used saddle, ride a lot of different horses to see what you like. If I had acreage I'd most likely have my own horse (I do think that you need to interact with them, just like a good dog). Right now we are mostly riding in arenas (and the horses act differently in arenas and pastures vs. trails) due to the snow and ice over here. But we try to ride at least every couple of weeks. My saddle is a Circle Y Park & Trail, I bought it used for $450. It is a comfortable saddle, and in my limited experiance I have come to prefer a slick seat. One secret that helps on long rides is bicycling padded underware.

[wapiteaser]

Get a mule you can ride. You won't regret it. By far more sure footed and a lot better packer. If you can find a mule to ride, go for a test ride. You will love it.

[Mello-Yello]

My only real experience riding a mule was a few years back in the Idaho wilderness. I had actually started out on a horse, but before we even broke camp I was thrown. I wasn't hurt, though my lunch was considerably thinner since I landed flat on my back after doing a couple laps around camp. The first words out of the outfitters mouth was...dam, I was afraid he'd do that.

In defense of the horse, I'm pretty sure I was at least partially to blame as I was pushing the rifle (remember, I'm a life-long bowhunter) into the scabbard and I think it 'goosed' the horse. The rest of the day however, the outfitter, now riding the horse (and only horse used) fought that thing all day. The rest of us rode mules and they did great. The trails were narrow and one hand could touch the uphill bank at almost any time. Scary stuff for sure, but the mules performed really well.

That said, I still believe if you fall off the horse you get back on. I wouldn't be opposed to getting a good saddle mule if the opportunity arose. But I still want a horse, which I'll now refer to as a mountain horse rather than trail horse. I like that title better

No offense to mules whatsoever, but thought I'd share a 'cute' phrase I heard many years back, obviously coming from a horse person.

"A guy that rides a mule is too poor to ride a horse, and too embarrassed to ride a cow"

Again, no flame needed. I know it isn't true, just kinda 'cute'.

M-Y

[scottishsetter]

James in ID.; You got it right that horses are prey and all have that fight or flight when confronted by a dragon.
But consider this, Icelandics lived on Iceland for 900 years with no predators.
Vikings would ride them across snow/ice.Sure footed. Eat the bad tempered ones during winter. They were living under the house with the humans. They are different than any other horse regarding temperment.

[Hunt'nFish]

No offense taken.
We ride mules, but then I think it takes a REAL man to ride one.
Seriously thought, they are no differant that a horse temprment wise. Some are dream animals and some real knuckleheads. Fortunately Dad & Brother have put together a couple of real good strings.

But I think most guys would see them for what are, not what they can do.
We have one little buckskin that thinks it's a dog and would stand around the fire with us if we'd let her.
No, nothing wrong with riding mules at all.
Hunt'nFish


PS: Here's the Ol'Mans riding mule:

[barnyard121]

We have 8 horses as of now and we manage a horse stable of 80. GET A 4 WHEELER!!! not unless you really like horses. you can park a 4 wheeler for months horses you must take care of 24/7! and just like a good dog a horse you can't leave it in a field for 8 months and expect it to be in good shape. Not unless you have alot of time! they take alot of work!


Thats the horse I hunt off of. CJ

[Ildor]

Expanding a little on what Barnyard said, horses are a lifestyle. In this day and age there's very little if anything about them that's practical. That being said, there's nothing better after a long stressful day than walking out to the barn and picking stalls, feeding and scratching your horse around the ears and withers. I've arrived at the barn a wore out man from the daily grind, saddled my horse and gone for a trail ride in the driving rain, arrived back at the barn drenched and a whole man. Horse enjoyed getting out to stretch his legs too, not to mention the half hour rub down he got afterward.

[mtn300]

If you are a beginner buy a good ranch horse who is a little older. The older ranch horses have been there done that kind of horse. Most of the time they are sure footed and can get around in rough country. Yes they do cost money but you can access a lot of country with a horse. I have a horse i bought as a colt he was raised on a ranch in some rocky country. he is very sure footed and can pick his way through rock and brush. I have taken him in some very steep country that I would never trust my other horse in. I can rope on him take him elk hunting he just about does it all. Good ole quarter horse can't beat them. Lots of people are willing to help just be careful because some are full of it. Good luck on you decision to buy a horse.

[llama77]

Had 4 wheelers,

The goody two shoes lied their way into closing the road!
So next time you pay to get dropped into some wilderness, dont expect to not see people, and dont be surprised to see me.

While I always enjoyed going out to the garage and changing the oil, checking the air in the tires and give the old girl a little armour all on the seat, I ve found that it is more enjoyable to take care of the horse.

[skein]

I guess this thread wouldn't be complete without a quote from Corrirod:

"I used to have horses but they were too expensive, so I took up tuna fishing."



Skein

[Mello-Yello]

I think that may work, if'n you don't keep a boat long enough to have to make a boat payment.

Pure genius Rod! I just knew there was meaning behind the madness...

[Mello-Yello]

Going to request more "expertise". I've read a lot about geldings being the preferred gender for horses, and in this case, trail horses. I've also read that it's really dependent on the particular horse.

I have the inside on a really nice, fully trained (and then some) 7 yr. old breedstock paint mare. I know from first hand experience (not just someone's opinion) she's a sweety. I've watched her interact with many different horses and if anything she's passive to them, yet very confident. Basically, she just wants to be a horse and get along.

If you have experience in this subject, please share. But also, if you can, consider whether 'bad' experiences were from a mare that is usually a 'sweety', and suddenly became a flaming psycho or a brooodmare that wants to 'run the show'.

If it really is 'what's between the ears', I'd hate to pass her up.

M-Y

[Ildor]

Originally Posted by Mello-Yello

Going to request more "expertise". I've read a lot about geldings being the preferred gender for horses, and in this case, trail horses. I've also read that it's really dependent on the particular horse.

I have the inside on a really nice, fully trained (and then some) 7 yr. old breedstock paint mare. I know from first hand experience (not just someone's opinion) she's a sweety. I've watched her interact with many different horses and if anything she's passive to them, yet very confident. Basically, she just wants to be a horse and get along.

If you have experience in this subject, please share. But also, if you can, consider whether 'bad' experiences were from a mare that is usually a 'sweety', and suddenly became a flaming psycho or a brooodmare that wants to 'run the show'.

If it really is 'what's between the ears', I'd hate to pass her up.

M-Y

Knothead is not reserved for either sex, male or female, gelding or mare. On the other hand you can find a very steady, reliable, "bomb proof" mount in either a gelding or mare. That being said, in general, the mares tend to be a little moodier. Yes I'm still referring to horses.

[Joe]

Originally Posted by Mello-Yello

Going to request more "expertise". I've read a lot about geldings being the preferred gender for horses, and in this case, trail horses. I've also read that it's really dependent on the particular horse.

I have the inside on a really nice, fully trained (and then some) 7 yr. old breedstock paint mare. I know from first hand experience (not just someone's opinion) she's a sweety. I've watched her interact with many different horses and if anything she's passive to them, yet very confident. Basically, she just wants to be a horse and get along.

If you have experience in this subject, please share. But also, if you can, consider whether 'bad' experiences were from a mare that is usually a 'sweety', and suddenly became a flaming psycho or a brooodmare that wants to 'run the show'.

If it really is 'what's between the ears', I'd hate to pass her up.

M-Y

My horse is a real sweetheart of a 8 year old previous brood mare and she is great! I am a rookie for sure but she will behave for me more easily than my wifes gelding and she has been riding for 30 years. He is a very dominate horse and not a good match for a newer rider. She (my mare not my wife) does get pretty vocal if we are at a horse camp with lots of boy horses around but it hasn't caused a bit of trouble for me. I'm no expert but from my experience it really is a non issue.

[Joe]

Checking things out in the Three Sisters Wilderness last June.



Taking a break at a little lake somewhere in the Diamond Peak Wilderness.

[Opportunist]

This is a great thread. If you don't use em' don't own em' is the only thing I can say. But they pay off after the kill.







My hunting partner hates horses but he sure loves them after killin' something down in a hole.

[Cowhos]

You might want to look at BIGHORSESTATION.com. Most of them are draft crosses that are really level headed and are experienced on trails. I know the people that run the ranch and they are good honest people. They are also priced decent. I hope this helped. Good luck and if you ever want to get into showing horses as a new hobby send me a message

[oregoncritters12]

We own four horses...I use goats for hunting...Fits my hunting style much better

[Mello-Yello]

I had no idea how hard this was going to be. In fact, if I had the money and the land, I'd have bought almost every horse I've looked at.

After a couple repeat visits, I found my first horse.

He's a 13 yr. old Tennessee Walker and a sweety for sure. He'll be arriving this Thursday.

Let the adventure begin!

(and thanks to everyone, all of your suggestions were greatly appreciated).

[Santiam338]

Good choice...Good age... Congrats.

Will expect pics come Thursday...

[osulogger]

woo hoo! A Tennessee Walker. Smooth ride, good horses. I told my wife that's what I want, but I don't want her to think I'm up for riding all the time

Great age too, he'll be well broken and ready to ride. The two TW's that I've rode are "hot" meaning they move quickly, but the ride is smooth and they will get you from point "A" to point "B" without problem!

Post a picture when you get him.

From the land of Big Sticks,

Osulogger

[KingSlew]

Good luck with your new buddy Mello!

Just one thing I'd like to add. There's nothing sadder than a good horse banished to a pasture all by himself and left to rot there. Besides regular attention to their feet and hooves, horses need company. If you can't visit daily with a little grain or oats and a pat, get some kind of a critter for him to hang out with. Even a goat or an old steer is better than nothing. So many times I've seen folks lose interest in their horse or get involved with other things in their life and the animal suffers. Please don't feel like I'm directing this at you Mello, just some advice that I hope you can use to your advantage. In terms of commitment, keeping horses is as serious as marriage and just as rewarding if you make a good match.

Here's a couple more pics of Santiam and Snoopy humping a boar out for me last year. That little horse will go anywhere and absolutely nothing bothers him. That's not often the case.

[cooky]

I used to train Tennessee Walkers and I absolutely think they are fantastic trail horses. I would definitely reiterate what KingSlew said. Horses are in need of companionship. All the horses I worked with were kept with atleast one other critter at all times. I'm a big fan of the "Companion Burro". You can find one cheap and I can't tell you how much enjoyment you'll get out of watching the burro and the horses personalities intertwine as they interact together- comedy gold! Good luck and keep us updated!

[Joe]

Congrats and good luck MY! Sounds like a great choice to me.

One thing that is different about Walkers besides saddle choices is how they are shod. The first farrier we had couldn't keep shoes on ours so we switched to a guy who has worked with a lot of Walkers and haven't lost one since. Definitely something to consider when you need shoes put on...

[Santiam338]

Speaking of gaited breeds,I always kinda wanted a Missouri Foxtrotter...No special reason except I like the name...

Visions of chasing the hounds cross country,leaping fences ( not that I would leap a fence) and the thrill of the chase...

Jerry, Snoppy has growed a bit since you seen him last...

[Mello-Yello]

Thanks guys. Actually, right now I don't think the problem is going to be 'having friends', but rather sorting through the hierarchy around the ranch. He'll be sharing a 6 acre pasture (and a lot of forested hillside) with 6 other horses. 4 geldings and 2 mares and one of the mares is....troubled.

I'm setting up a small pasture for him to acclimate for a bit. From what I gather, this is a good idea, but it won't prevent the ultimate posturing that will take place once he's let out with the others. Any thoughts on this would be most welcome. Some say a few days, others say a week or even two. Some say...turn him out and get it over with now. Fortunately, none of the horses are wearing shoes right now.

I finally finished cleaning up his stall (was storage space for about 1 ton of 'junk' that is now upstairs in the barn. Needless to say, I feel like I just packed an elk out solo...again! For the most part, the stalls are used to allow 'individual' feeding but every horse has their own stall.

I'm pretty excited...

M-Y

[KingSlew]

You're gonna be just fine. Shoveling manure is honest work...lol!

Hey Bill! Yip, not a baby anymore, he's almost got his growth now. Very nice young man. Snoopy's OK in my book!

As long as were sharing horse pics, here's a pic of a real horse...lol! Nothing mild about old Marker. You'd better have your act together or he'd tear you a new one. Man he could cover the ground! This pic was taken back in 71' in front of our place at Seal Rock. I'd just saddle up and head east to hunt. No timber gates. No problems with access. Blacktail as thick as fleas on a dog's back and elk trails in the timber wide enough to drive a jeep on. Buck tags were two bucks apiece, you could hunt eastside and westside on the same tag and I think elk was six or eight dollars. That old Mauser has since been converted to a .338 win MAG. 7.65 brass got to be too expensive. Many critters fell to it.

[Mello-Yello]

The sun was going down so the lighting isn't the best...but here he is.

Maverick...just itching to get out w/the others.

[Joe]

Wow! He is a great looking horse.

[Santiam338]

Big strong looking horse..

Just right...

[Santiam338]

So,how are you getting along??? We need a report...Been out on a ride yet?

[Mello-Yello]

Yes! The first few days were rather hectic for him. He spent a couple days in his own little pasture getting to know the other horses w/a fence between them. Sunday he was introduced to the herd. Man, I had no idea the drama this sort of thing involves!

If anyone ever asks if a Tennessee Walker can run like a 'regular' horse (not just fancy gaits) the answer is a resounding "You'd better believe it!". He was harassed quite a bit by the two senior geldings the first day in pasture. He got a few good bites on the rear, but every time he showed he's also a crack-shot w/his rear hooves. Those two geldings finally gave up (Appy and a Paint, both roping horses) because quite simply, they couldn't catch him in the open and there wasn't a chance in the world they'd out-wind him. That and it just wasn't worth the hoof-sandwich if they did.

By Tuesday things were pretty calm so I took him up on the hill and we rode....a lot! No issues whatsoever. He was only wearing a halter w/his lead rope tied off at both ends. He neck reins like a champ, will back up as long and far as you want. Haunch turns on a dime, etc, etc.

After awhile we got into some big open timber. We went over limbs, then over logs. I would have to compare it to riding a Moose. He steps 'over' everything, didn't bunny hop once. For the most part was extremely calm, though a few times his ears would perk up (we weren't on trails, this was dark forest), but with just a nudge he'd move on. We quit the ride about a half-mile from the barn. I loosened his cinch a little and started walking for home, he followed w/no lead. I swear you could see a smile on his face.

The past three days he's been waiting for me at the gait at feeding time, already knows which stall is his and goes to it without being led.

So far, I couldn't possibly be happier. My only frustration is...I gotta go to Canyonville for the weekend (OBH convention) and next weekend I have to fly to Baltimore, MD for a week. After that though, we're hitting the hills hard. Am hoping the weather's going to start getting better too. Rain, sleet, snow, wind.....yuck!

M-Y

[Joe]

Sounds like you got a keeper for sure!

I was amazed myself how my wifes gelding acted when we got the second one. Left bite marks on her butt for over a year but finally no more bite marks.

Yep, Walkers can run fast! I was racing my wife down the bay one day and a heron took off out of a tree and let out a big squawk. My horse dropped down and dove to the right at full speed sending me flying forward to a very uncomfortable landing in the sand. No more racing for me!! Walk out or a slow canter is all the speed I need.