Let’s face it, corporate retreats can be painfully boring and campy experiences. If you haven’t yet suffered through a day of professionally feigning enthusiasm for team-building games and appreciation for hospital-quality food yet, count yourself blessed. And if you’re a business owner or HR manager who has subjected people to such an experience; Lord forgive you, because they probably won’t. Bad retreats (especially if attendance is mandatory or “highly encouraged”) can deal lethal blows to company morale and team cohesion, and the bad news is that most corporate retreats are bad retreats.
But the good news is that that doesn’t have to be the case.
Instead of a standard hotel ballroom, imagine bonding with colleagues around a campfire after a day of fishing or high-fiving teammates in a duck blind at dawn. These retreats combine outdoor excitement with team-building, creating shared stories that will be told at the office for years. Below, we highlight 10 of the best U.S. locations for corporate groups who love hunting and fishing – from bowfishing in Kentucky to deep-sea angling in the Florida Keys. Each destination offers great outdoor activities, comfortable lodging, and nearby attractions to keep everyone engaged and entertained.
Kentucky – Bowfishing & Bourbon Trail Adventures
If your team prefers camo to khakis and bowstrings to PowerPoint, Kentucky’s bowfishing scene offers a corporate retreat unlike any other. Captain Clayton “CT” Meyer, owner of The Obsession Outdoors, leads guided charters that merge the thrill of bowhunting with the camaraderie of fishing — all under the stars on the Ohio River.
CT has been bowfishing for nearly two decades, but what began as a personal passion evolved into a growing business. “I was just taking friends and coworkers out for fun,” he says. “Eventually, I thought, ‘Why not try to make a business out of this?’” The response was overwhelming. Today, he runs one of the Southeast’s premier bowfishing operations, drawing clients from as far away as Alaska.
The real gem of the experience is the on-site lodge, a private, waterfront property nestled on a quiet tributary just minutes from the Ohio River. “It’s right on the water — you can shoot fish or catfish right off the dock,” CT says. With seven beds, a full kitchen, a Green Egg grill, and a secluded location, it’s designed for comfort and convenience. “People don’t want to figure out where to stay or drive hours between spots. They want to go somewhere, check out, and just enjoy the experience. That’s what we’re providing.”
What You’ll Do
A typical summer corporate retreat begins in the late afternoon with team members settling into the lodge, grilling dinner, and taking in the quiet before the excitement begins. Around sunset, it’s time to hit the water. “We do a full tutorial before we start,” CT explains. “No experience necessary. I’ve had first-timers and even folks in wheelchairs out on the boat — we accommodate everyone.”
The five-hour night charter is packed with action. Under LED lights, teams take aim at invasive Asian carp, bighead carp, gar, buffalo, and catfish. “It’s the best of both worlds — you’re fishing and bowhunting at the same time,” CT says. “And when those jumping silver carp start going airborne, there’s nothing like it.”
For beginners, CT recommends the summer trips out of the lodge, where the action is steady and the environment relaxed. “It’s laid-back, low stress. We’ve had groups who’ve never held a bow end the night grinning ear to ear,” he says.
Spring Trips
The Obsession Outdoors also offers spring trips targeting paddlefish — a prehistoric species known for their massive size and elusive nature. “They’re freshwater giants,” CT says. “Watching someone land their first paddlefish is always a moment — they’re shaking in their boots, can’t believe what they just brought on board.” While the paddlefish season is more technical and requires a tighter group size, it’s one of the most memorable trips he runs each year.
Beyond the bowfishing itself, CT’s operation stands out for its professionalism and attention to detail. “I pride myself on running a first-class setup — good equipment, clean lodging, and making sure every guest feels looked after,” he says. That includes everything from providing bows suited for different ages and strengths to having a deckhand onboard to keep things running smoothly.
And while the focus is on fishing, there’s more to explore. “If you’re into bourbon, we’ve got distilleries within 45 minutes. Good food, hiking trails, kayaking — there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained,” CT adds.
This isn’t a buttoned-up seminar in a conference center. It’s wild, hands-on, and packed with stories your team will retell for years. For companies looking to build true camaraderie — the kind forged through shared adventure — a retreat with The Obsession Outdoors is hard to beat.
“You just need a fishing license and whatever you want to eat or drink,” CT says. “We’ll take care of the rest.”
South Dakota – Pheasant Hunting on the Prairie
For a classic hunting corporate retreat, South Dakota’s pheasant country is unparalleled. Wide-open prairie fields teeming with pheasants set the stage for an unforgettable team hunting experience each fall. Outfitters like the famed Paul Nelson Farm specialize in corporate groups, offering an all-inclusive wingshooting lodge that spans over 5,000 contiguous acres with an unrivaled bird count, plus 35 private rooms and 5-star meals for guests.
What You’ll Do
The hunting is fast-paced and social – groups walk through fields with guides and dogs, flushing roosters that burst into the sky. There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of a successful shot and the celebratory shout of a colleague beside you. Paul Nelson Farm (a two-time Orvis Lodge of the Year) notes that it’s for those who value “friendship, camaraderie and relationships” alongside great hunting.
Evenings at the lodge are all about camaraderie: telling stories by the fireplace and enjoying gourmet dinners together. Although this retreat is in rural South Dakota, it’s accessible via a drive from Sioux Falls or Pierre. The seclusion is actually a perk – with prairie sunsets and bright stars overhead, your team will feel a million miles from the office, growing closer with each passing day on the range.
Wyoming – Waterfowl Hunting with 157 Outfitters
If your crew loves duck blinds and honking geese overhead, southeastern Wyoming is calling for your next corporate retreat. 157 Outfitters runs corporate-friendly waterfowl hunts in the North Platte River Valley, which they describe as “one of the greatest waterfowl areas of the United States.”
What You’ll Do
During fall migrations, this region sees hundreds of thousands of ducks and geese resting and feeding in local fields–a waterfowler’s dream come true. Your team can expect mornings in heated underground duck blinds (comfortably accommodating up to five hunters per blind) set in cornfields.
As flocks of mallards or Canada geese cup their wings, everyone works together – calling birds, keeping still, then rising in unison for the perfect shot. The guides take care of everything: decoys, dogs, and even cleaning and vacuum-packing the birds for you.
This turnkey approach is ideal for corporate groups – just show up and enjoy the hunt. Afternoons can be spent back at the lodge swapping stories or even trying a bit of upland game or trap shooting for friendly competition. Located a couple hours from Denver, this Wyoming retreat is within driving range of a major airport yet offers an authentic cowboy country feel. For a team of hunters, bagging limits of ducks and geese together is an experience that builds lasting camaraderie.
Mississippi Gulf Coast – Flounder Gigging & Offshore Fishing in Biloxi
The Mississippi Gulf Coast delivers a one-two punch of night and day fishing adventures perfect for a corporate retreat. Biloxi, a lively coastal city, serves as home base with large casino resorts for lodging and entertainment after hours.
What You’ll Do
Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with Mississippi Gulf Coast Fishing Charters, based in Biloxi. Led by Captain Chance Seymour, a second-generation fisherman with deep knowledge of Gulf waters, these trips deliver unforgettable offshore adventures for anglers of all experience levels.
The Gulf offers incredible fishing. Your team might reel in red snapper, mackerel, or even cobia—while soaking up ocean breezes and sipping cold drinks.
At night, the vibe changes. Get ready for flounder gigging. Outfitters like Bayou Bandit Charters guide shallow-water trips after dark. Teams use spotlights and gigs (a type of spear) to hunt flounder.
It’s a total blast. Picture your coworkers on a flat-bottom boat, laughing and cheering as someone spears a flounder in the glowing water. Bayou Bandit also offers bow fishing for redfish and sheepshead in Alabama and Mississippi waters.
Want more adventure? Try a day trip to the remote Chandeleur Islands with Captain Kyle Johnson of Coastal Waters Outfitters. He promises an unforgettable trip—whether you’re chasing trophy fish or just taking it easy.
The islands offer wade fishing and even beach camping for teams that want to unplug and bond.
Back in Biloxi, wind down with blackjack or fresh seafood at a casino restaurant. With flounder gigging, offshore charters, and island escapes, Biloxi offers something for every angler—and stories your team won’t stop telling.
Florida Keys – Fishing and Lobstering in Paradise
For a tropical twist, head to the Florida Keys for your next corporate retreat, where turquoise waters and abundant marine life create an angler’s paradise. A corporate retreat in the Keys means your team can spend days on the water and evenings enjoying island vibes. Key Largo or Islamorada are great bases (just a 1-2 hour drive from Miami).
What You’ll Do
In summer, treat your group to a lobstering adventure. Snorkeling shallow reefs to catch spiny lobsters is a fun, hands-on team activity. Working in pairs to spot and net lobsters is both challenging and exciting. Expect plenty of laughs along the way.
The Keys are also the Sportfishing Capital of the World. Charter boats from marinas like Bud N’ Mary’s for a day of offshore fishing. Depending on the season, your team might reel in mahi-mahi, sailfish, or tarpon. Many charters cater to corporate groups and can set up friendly contests—like biggest catch of the day.
After all the saltwater action, it’s time to relax. Host a beach barbecue or explore Duval Street in Key West if you’re staying nearby. The Florida Keys bring a laid-back island vibe. Even when the fishing gets intense, the mood stays easygoing and fun.
Southern California – Long-Range Pacific Fishing Trips
For West Coast companies (or those willing to travel), Southern California offers an unforgettable multi-day fishing retreat on the Pacific. San Diego in particular is famous for its long-range fishing trips – these are live-aboard adventures where your team eats, sleeps, and fishes together on a large sportfishing vessel. It’s like a floating retreat! H&M Landing, one of the oldest charter operations, describes their trips: “Complete sportfishing packages from 2 to 21 days. All trips include luxury live-aboard accommodations, complete meal service, personal crew attention… All you need to bring is sunscreen and your duffle bag”. In other words, everything is handled for you – perfect for a corporate outing.
What You’ll Do
Imagine your group on a 100-foot boat, heading down to Baja Mexico waters for trophy tuna, wahoo, and yellowtail. By day, teams of colleagues rotate on the rail, helping each other reel in hard-fighting fish. By night, everyone gathers in the galley for a freshly cooked dinner and maybe a poker game or two. Being at sea with coworkers for a couple of days is a fantastic team-building experience – there’s nowhere to go but the shared adventure, and even those new to fishing will get encouragement and tips from colleagues.
Back on shore, San Diego has plenty to extend the retreat: you can catch a baseball game or enjoy a group dinner in the Gaslamp Quarter. But the true highlight is out on the ocean. A long-range fishing retreat off SoCal combines the thrill of big-game fishing with the bonding that happens when a team shares close quarters and a common goal.
Lake Tahoe – Fishing, Shooting, and Off-Road Fun in the Sierras
If you want a mix of fishing, shooting sports, and mountain scenery, Lake Tahoe is an ideal destination. Straddling California and Nevada, Tahoe is within driving distance of San Francisco (close enough for convenience, far enough to feel like a true escape). The region is often called “America’s Adventure Place” for its wide range of outdoor recreation.
What You’ll Do
For anglers, Lake Tahoe itself offers charter fishing – you can take your team out on the lake at sunrise to catch kokanee salmon and mackinaw trout, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada peaks. Later in the day, head to a nearby range for some sporting clays or trap shooting. The area is well regarded and internationally known for hunting and fishing, and you can get a taste of that sportsman spirit at local ranges.
Some outfitters offer combo packages for extra fun. Ride ATVs to a scenic spot, then shoot clay pigeons. It’s a great way to spark friendly competition. The fun continues at night. South Lake Tahoe’s casinos—and Reno, just an hour away—bring nightlife, live shows, and even team poker tournaments. Tahoe is all about variety. Fish in the morning. Go off-roading in the afternoon. Hit the blackjack tables after dinner. These shared moments bring teams closer. Cheer for a coworker’s trophy trout. Laugh over wins (and losses) at the casino. With fresh mountain air and endless activities, Lake Tahoe blends adventure and comfort for any corporate retreat.
Crystal River, Florida – Scalloping and Sunshine on the Gulf
For a truly hands-on aquatic adventure, consider taking your team scalloping in Crystal River, Florida. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast (about 1.5 hours north of Tampa), Crystal River is known for its clear spring-fed waters, abundant bay scallops, and even wintering manatees. A scalloping excursion is essentially an underwater treasure hunt – a fantastic team-building activity that’s equal parts fun and rewarding.
What You’ll Do
Guides will take your group by boat to shallow grass flats (usually 4–6 feet deep) in the Gulf where scallops are found. Everyone gets a mask, snorkel, and mesh bag. Then it’s “find your dinner” time! You float along the surface, looking for the telltale blue eyes of a scallop in the seagrass below, then dive down to grab it.
Back on the boat, there’s a lot of smiling and comparing who caught the most. After a few hours, you’ll have buckets full of scallops, which you can take to a local restaurant where they’ll cook your catch for dinner – talk about immediate gratification and team reward! Apart from scalloping, Crystal River offers fishing charters for redfish and trout, kayaking in scenic springs, and the famous opportunity to snorkel with manatees (a gentle group activity if your retreat is in winter). Accommodations range from riverside resorts to rental villas, and the vibe is very relaxed. A corporate retreat here is all about enjoying Florida’s natural bounty – your team will work together in the water and then feast together in the evening. It’s hard to beat the simple pleasure of bonding over a delicious meal that you all personally harvested from the sea.
Texas Hill Country – Ranch Retreat with Hunting and Exotic Wildlife
Everything is bigger in Texas – and that includes corporate retreats! In the Texas Hill Country (a few hours from Austin or San Antonio), you can book an entire ranch resort for your team and enjoy a mix of hunting, shooting, and unique activities you won’t find anywhere else. Take Ox Ranch in Uvalde, Texas, for example. Spanning over 18,000 acres and home to thousands of exotic animals from 40+ species, Ox Ranch is “quickly becoming known as the most exciting ranch in Texas”. The ranch is built for corporate groups, with a huge lodge and luxury cabins ready to host your crew.
What You’ll Do
By day, your team can participate in guided hunts (everything from trophy whitetail deer to hogs or even exotic game like oryx). Those who aren’t hunting can try skeet shooting, long-range target shooting, or even driving a World War II-era tank – yes, Ox Ranch lets guests drive tanks and even fire machine guns for an extra thrill. One-of-a-kind activities like hand-feeding giraffes on the property add a fun, almost safari-like element.
All these adventures serve as terrific bonding experiences – whether it’s teaming up for a stalk through the hills or cheering each other on at the shooting range, colleagues will connect in new ways. Come evening, the ranch’s 6,000-square-foot lodge with roaring fireplaces and an antique bar is the setting for Texas-sized hospitality. Your team can enjoy a true farm-to-table barbecue feast and recount the day’s excitement. For nearby attractions, the ranch’s proximity to San Antonio means groups can arrange a trip to the famous River Walk or Alamo either en route or on the way home. But while on-site, it’s all about that big sky Texas vibe – blazing sunsets, wide open spaces, and a chance for your team to both relax and play hard. A Hill Country ranch retreat offers a memorable blend of adventure and luxury, sure to leave your employees feeling appreciated and energized.
Alaska – The All-Inclusive Wilderness Fishing Expedition
For the ultimate bucket-list corporate retreat, Alaska beckons with unparalleled wilderness and world-class fishing. This option is further afield (a flight to King Salmon or Anchorage is required), but the payoff is huge: days of bonding in a stunning environment far removed from day-to-day work life. One shining example is King Salmon Lodge in Bristol Bay, Southwest Alaska. This all-inclusive lodge is located on the Naknek River bordering Katmai National Park – known for its famous brown bears. King Salmon Lodge markets itself as an ideal retreat spot, noting it provides “the best fishing and overall experience for new and seasoned anglers looking for an authentic Alaskan experience.” Here, your team can catch five species of salmon (Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, you name it) plus feisty trout and Arctic char.
What You’ll Do
Each day, guides take groups out by boat or floatplane to remote fishing spots where the scenery is jaw-dropping and the fish are plentiful. One day you might be casting for silver salmon on a wild river; the next, flying out to Brooks Falls to watch huge bears catching salmon (an unforgettable group outing). In the evenings, everyone gathers back at the cozy lodge to enjoy hearty meals of fresh-caught fish and swap stories. The lodge facilities typically include meeting spaces and comfortable cabins, so work discussions or presentations can be woven in between adventures if needed. What makes Alaska truly special for team building is the sense of accomplishment and awe it inspires. Colleagues will help each other land trophy salmon and take team photos with breathtaking backdrops.
In other words, an Alaska retreat gives your team a taste of it all – and those shared once-in-a-lifetime moments (like watching the northern lights or a whale breaching near the boat) will bond your group in a profound way. It’s an investment, but for a company looking to reward and inspire their outdoor-loving employees, Alaska is as good as it gets.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re stalking pheasants on the plains or snorkeling for scallops on the Gulf Coast, these 10 spots prove corporate retreats don’t have to be boring. Adventure brings people together. When coworkers face outdoor challenges side by side—and have fun—they return stronger and more connected. From the heartland to the high seas, the U.S. has retreats made for hunters, anglers, and outdoor lovers. Pack your gear, rally the team, and get ready for some wild memories!
