The 85th annual Red Bluff Bull & Gelding Sale, held from Jan. 28-31 in Red Bluff, CA, continued its tradition of showcasing premier livestock and attracting western attendees from across the western U.S. This year’s event featured a series of auctions, competitions and social gatherings that highlighted the best in the ranching industry.
The bull sale, a cornerstone of the event, took place on Jan. 31. A total of 316 bulls representing 11 different breeds, including Angus, Balancer, Hereford, SimAngus and Charolais were presented to a large audience of buyers and enthusiasts. The sale achieved an impressive average price of $8,870 per bull, a true testament of the high quality of breeding bulls offered.
On Jan. 30, the gelding sale featured 28 geldings, 12 mares and nine 2-year-olds, attracting significant interest from attendees. This is an event that garners over 4,000-5,000 buyers and spectators. The total sales amounted to $1,022,500, with an average price of $21,302 per horse. This reflects the event’s reputation for offering top-tier ranch and performance horses that meet the rigorous standards set by the long-standing organizing committee.
The stock dog sale also took place on Jan. 30, with 13 dogs showcased in three rounds of competition. These working dogs are essential partners in ranching operations, and their inclusion in the sale highlights the comprehensive nature of the event. This was one of the most consistent sets of working dogs the event has ever seen. The stock dog sale averaged $11,500 per dog.
Western Video Market held their annual January online feeder sale in conjunction with the Red Bluff replacement female section on Jan. 29, offering over 20,000 head. There was unbelievable market support on feeders, concluding with the best female sale to date. Fall pairs ranged from $4,800-6,000. All spring-bred cattle sold for over $3,750. Many of these lots broke the $4,000 mark.
Beyond the sales and competitions, the event hosted one of the largest trade shows in the western U.S. Vendors from around the nation offered a diverse array of products, including agricultural equipment, handcrafted leatherwork, Western apparel, jewelry and home decor. The week was also filled with seminars, clinics, dinners and ample opportunities for networking and socializing within the ranching community.
Concluding the week’s activities, the Red Bluff Bucking Battle provided thrilling entertainment for attendees. This event featured top-tier bull riding and ranch bronc riding competitions, drawing large crowds and adding an exciting finale to the sale.
Quality and tradition
Since its inception in 1941, the Red Bluff Bull & Gelding Sale has maintained a steadfast commitment to quality and excellence. The event has evolved into a premier destination for those in the ranching industry, offering not only top-tier livestock but also serving as a significant social gathering. The dedication of the organizing committee, composed of local ranchers and cattlemen, ensures that the event upholds its esteemed reputation year after year.
The 2026 Red Bluff Bull & Gelding Sale successfully continued its legacy of excellence, providing a platform for showcasing superior livestock, facilitating valuable industry connections and celebrating the rich traditions of the western ranching community. — Jared Patterson, WLJ field representative
