NDKID":1d2wa4tj said:
Hey guys. Im new on here and very curious in the cattle industry for my future. I am just curious if anyone on here has any info or experience at all on texas longhorns. I would some day like to own a herd of my own and was just wondering if I could get a little insight from a actual longhorn rancher. Ive been researching for about a year now and im stilll hooked and from what ive read that is what happens! I do not live on a farm but have relatives with a decent sized one with gelbvieh, angus, and charlois breeds there, which is what got me interested in the longhorn breed was watching my relatives cattle all day. So what im saying is I will be starting from scratch with my ranch. I really just want cattle, I dont like the idea of raising crops, so im wondering if it is at all possible to have an operating ranch with just longhorns to provide all the ranches operations. If anyone can help its greatly appreciated! Thanks everyone
You can run an operation of Texas Longhorns. But just like an operation with any other breed planning and preparation is the key. Getting facilities in order, researching the breed, defining a goal(s) for your herd/operation, and so forth are keys to developing a successful cattle operation.
Versatility is one of the greatest traits of Texas Longhorns. Not only are they versatile as far as climate, terrain and forage goes, but there is a great versatility in the market for Texas Longhorns. Cow/calf production, show stock, lean beef, crossbreeding (low input female & low birthweight bulls), big horned (trophy) animals, rodeo stock, roping stock, riding steers, etc... It sounds as if you have already been doing some pretty extensive research which is great. Although like others have said, your location is less than ideal, but with determination, proper planning, a desire to succeed, willingness to take the time to do what is necessary to be successful and a little luck you can have a successful operation based on Texas Longhorns. Getting the proper animals for your intended goals is extremely important. Like many have said,
There is more variation within breeds, than in between breeds. Hunts Command Respect influenced animals are probably not best for show or beef production, RCR Scorpion's Stinger influenced animals probably aren't the greatest base to start with if you are chasing horns.
Personally, I have sold animals for ropers, bulls for use on first-calf heifers, females that will be bred to black or charolais bulls in crossbreeding operations, steers for riding, show calves, beef, tax exemptions, seedstock females, herd sires, and nostalgic pasture ornaments. Marketing your product, like any operation, is key. Anything from Craigslist and the newspaper to association magazines can be apart of a successful ranch operation.
Hope this helps some, feel free to ask me anything. I've been in the Texas Longhorn industry for 20 years, and have seen many fads within the breed.
Ryan