Bobcat Hunting On A Historic California Ranch

Subscriber Scott Swasey hunted bobcat along the California coast north of Santa Barbara this past February and has nothing but praise for guide Alfred Luis of Central Coast Outfitters (805-922-7923). This was Swasey's second hunt with Luis on the 25,000-acre Cojo Jamala Ranch. "I took a great blacktail there with Luis on a previous hunt," Swasey says. "Luis really works hard for his clients, so when this cat hunt came up at an SCI auction, I jumped on it. After I took two SCI bronze cats with him, I booked another blacktail hunt, and I'll probably book a fourth hunt with him after that one." Swasey says he saw a total of four big bobcats during his hunt but that he might have seen more if a rainstorm hadn't kept him from hunting the first two days. This weather is typical for that time of year, but Swasey promises, "When the sun comes out so do the kitty cats!" The hunt is conducted spot and stalk with the use of an open Jeep. In addition to cats, Swasey also saw blacktail deer, feral hog and turkey. Gray fox, dove and quail can also be hunted on the ranch. Surf fishing is also offered. Shot distances on cats vary, but most are under 200 yards. Those wanting to get closer can opt to hunt with dogs. Swasey assures us that this is, physically, an extremely easy hunt anyone can do. He also notes that the Cojo Jamala Ranch is a beautiful, historic property, featuring a Spanish adobe lodge from 1840. He says it is an ideal location for a first hunt or an accompanying non-hunting spouse. The hunt costs $2,250, including license and bobcat tags. Hunters should note that Cojo Jamala Ranch is a condor ranch and that all ammunition must be nontoxic.

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