Antelope Creek Ranch

This scenic ranch, surrounded by more than 65,000 acres of National Forest, is the jewel in the necklace of The Fly Shop’s Private Waters and welcomes a limited number of guests from mid-May through October.

Anglers staying at Antelope Creek Ranch enjoy wonderful accommodations, and absolutely terrific trout fishing that begins right at the doorstep. The guest accommodations are within a stone’s throw of the serpentine, fish-filled private meadow stream and within walking distance of the ranch’s two trophy trout lakes. There are nearly two miles of the creek on the ranch accessible to anglers.

Mike and Bertha Michalak, owners of The Fly Shop®, purchased the ranch in 2002 and, using a team of environmental experts, began one of the most ambitious private stream, meadow, wetland restoration and enhancement projects in this part of California.

Lodging at Antelope Creek Ranch is in the Michalak family’s private guest suites. Within walking distance of the upper lake and creek, seven suites with and without fully equipped kitchens, large patios and outdoor grills are available to accommodate small and large groups alike. Relax on the patio and grill your dinner enjoying the peacefulness of nature after a day spent chasing trophy trout with your family or close friends.

The historic cattle ranch is an ideal vacation spot for both serious fishermen and their families or friends. At just over 5,000 feet elevation, Antelope Creek Ranch is an ideal mid-summer and fall angling retreat. The ranch enjoys cool, pleasant weather and great fly fishing conditions all season long. There are several golf courses less than an hour away, two adjacent National Forests with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and several of the American west’s largest waterfowl nesting and viewing areas only minutes away.

Click HERE to read about the fire that swept through Antelope Creek Ranch in 2021.

Headed out on your next adventure with us? The Fly ShopⓇ has you covered. As a thank you to our guide service, private waters and school guests, enjoy 15% off all retail purchases for a year! — the perfect chance to gear up before your trip.

Whether it’s flies, leaders, apparel or a new rod and reel outfit, we’ve got everything you need to make your journey more comfortable, more successful, and more fun. (some exclusions apply)

Seasons

The cold water of Antelope Creek pours out of alpine aquifers and tumbles off the slopes of nearby Mount Shasta before settling into its tranquil, meandering nature as it courses across our ranch. Simple irrigation diversions control

May and June:
In May and June the high (5000') altitude translates to cool mornings and evenings. Hatches aren't heavy in the creek or either of the two trophy trout lakes until late in the morning, when the sun hits the water solidly, its warmth stimulating the insect activity - and the trouts'! Fish feed actively all day long and leeches, streamers, and nymphs are very effective throughout the day. The single most effective dry fly and nymph fishing in the stream are small mayfly imitations, while standard damselfly or water boatman patterns work well in either of the two lakes. Slowly retrieved streamers and small, bead-headed patterns are equally productive.

Midges are very active in the spring months, and imitations continue to work well every day of the season. Sometime early in June there is a migration of termites that moves through the high mountain forests. Trout begin rising with apparent abandon to beetles and ant patterns that resemble the termites.

Lodging

Guests at Antelope Creek Ranch will have a choice of fully-furnished, one or two bedroom guest suites. Each of these comfortable, well-appointed suites are outfitted with completely equipped kitchens, outside barbecues, and Wi-Fi.

Large groups of 8 have the option to book the entire property and use the ranch house. This is a 4 bedroom home that can accommodate up to 8 anglers and non-anglers. You will be responsible for your own meals or we are happy to help make arrangements for a chef if desired (separate cost).

Accommodations can be selected (or combined) to match the size of each group, ensuring privacy and comfort. At the conclusion of each visit the suites and/or ranch house are thoroughly and professionally cleaned and sanitized.

Fishing

With two miles of stream connecting two lakes, there is something for any trout fly angler on the ranch to experience. Early in the season the fish will be ready to put on weight as the water warms and insects begin hatching and this can be one of the most productive times to fish. But don't think this is the best time, as spring turns to summer there are plenty of things to look forward to.

Rates

Stay in our Guest Suites:
• $395 per day/per angler (3 night minimum) *
• $175 per day (non-angler) *
(* plus $7 per night County Occupancy Tax)

Book the Entire Lodge:
• $2,400 per night (3 night minimum) for up to 8 guests.
• Meals are not included (we are happy to help make arrangements for a chef if desired)
• The entire ranch is yours, there will be no other guests on the property.

Inclusions:

Included in your ranch package at Antelope Creek Ranch are accommodations and access to all the ranch facilities.

Non-Inclusions:

Not included in your ranch package at Antelope Creek Ranch are fishing license, waders, rods/reels, and terminal tackle (flies, tippet, etc.) These items are not available at the ranch, so you’ll want to bring your tackle and equipment with you, and plan on purchasing your California Fishing License ahead of time.

Seasons Details

Seasons

Getting There Details

Getting There

Lodging Details

Lodging

Angling Details

Fishing

Inclusions Details

Rates

Why We Endorse Antelope Creek Ranch

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