About SLR

Swanson Lake Ranch is a 764 acre agricultural farm and ranch, located approximately one mile southwest of Swanson Lake in Southwestern Nebraska.  Our land has 436 acres of wetlands, enrolled in the federally funded, Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), 70 acres of alfalfa, wheat and corn farming, 26 acres of currently-enrolled Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) crops, and 232 acres of native grasslands, approximately 185 acres of which are in three distinct grazing zones for cattle operations. 

The ranch has more than 15 acres of private ponds, two miles of Republican River frontage, and is bordered to the north and east by state and federal land.  The property is managed for full-scale general farming and livestock grazing, but we recognize the wetlands, forested river bottom, and sand hills make this a special place for wildlife, so we place a strong emphasis as well on the maintenance of the natural habitat of the ranch.  This effort allows us to offer unique hunting, fishing, and recreational opportunities at SLR.  See below for more.

Bird Hunting

SLR is a unique property.  Located in the Central Flyway, and less than one mile from Swanson Reservoir in western Nebraska, the ranch is ideal habitat for migratory waterfowl, turkey, pheasant, dove and other game bird species.  The property’s northern boundary consists of two miles of Republican River bed and there are numerous trees, waterways, sloughs and ponds on the property providing cover, protection and nesting habitat for the birds that exist naturally in this favored environment.  Dry-land crops of wheat, alfalfa and other feed grains farmed on the property offer a food source in addition to the native sunflower and other flora, and the diverse cover helps hold migratory waterfowl on the Ranch.  Turkey and waterfowl are the signature hunts at SLR.

Deer Hunting

For the big game enthusiast, the same habitat that has proven so attractive for birds on Swanson Lake Ranch is ideal for White-Tailed Deer.  The property has abundant natural food sources, water, and large areas of dense cottonwood and cedar trees for cover and protection.  The ranch also has various open areas of tall native grasses, sage and sunflower, affording the hunter a clear and safe shot at one of these magnificent animals.

Fishing

While shooting sports predominate on the ranch, our 15-plus acres of private ponds stocked with bass, crappie, and bluegill offer relaxing recreational fishing and canoeing, while the more ambitious angler can take advantage of our proximity to Swanson Reservoir's nearly 5000 acres of crystal-clear water, for northern pike, wiper, walleye, crappie and black bass. 

Lodging

We are pleased to announce the opening of the Swanson Lake Ranch Lodge.  Our members and their guests can enjoy spectacular views of the property and a comfortable stay while hunting and fishing at Swanson Lake Ranch.  The lodge features a large deck overlooking Horseshoe Pond, a screened porch for outdoor dining, and other great amenities.

 

For off-site accommodations we are also pleased to have as a partner the Blue Colonial Bed & Breakfast with Host, Valerie Rodgers.  The B&B features a comfortable main living room with a fireplace for hors d'oeuvres and refreshments, a large dining table, comfortable beds and a warm shower - The perfect end to a great day of hunting and fishing.  Valerie Rodgers has hosted Dick & Mary Cabela of Cabela's, and offers excellent five-course dinners upon request to compliment the stay.  The B&B is less than 15 minutes from the ranch and several accommodation and meal options are available.

 

Valerie (at left) with Dick and Mary Cabela

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