West Kentucky Whitetails, LLC in Crofton offers hunters a free-range deer hunt on scenic properties, with packages that include lodging, meals, and a chance to land a trophy buck in a wilderness setting.
Tad Ladd, the owner and operator of the business, was the guest speaker at last week’s Princeton Rotary Club meeting.
After leaving the Air Force as a Command Integration Center air traffic controller in 1993, Ladd said he realized he needed that stimulation, which eventually led him to start his hunting business in 2014.
click to download audioHe has employed two full-time staff members since the beginning, and they prioritize buying everything locally, except for hunting gear, which comes from their industry sponsors.
click to download audioThey host eleven hunts a year—including three for turkey—which brings around 100 to 110 people into the community. He said the business runs on slim profit margins because his focus is on harvesting “true trophy whitetail deer” rather than chasing big profits.
They provide lodging and meals for hunters, who are up by 3:30 or 4:00 a.m. and then transported to their stands.
In the afternoon, hunters are taken back out. If they’re successful, they contact their guide because walking is not permitted.
click to download audioAfterward, they’re returned to the lodge.
click to download audioHe described the cabin, which is actually a modular unit.
click to download audioHe noted the lodge also has two bedrooms for their guides.
Ladd added that families or groups are welcome to hold events on the property, which helps provide revenue during the off-season.
For information about hunting opportunities or hosting an event at West Kentucky Whitetails in Crofton, visit their website, find them on Facebook, or call or text (931) 206-9342.
