Carson City, NV Outdoor Activities

Battle Born Sporting Clays and Shooting School has no real address. That's because its team of NSCA-certified instructors teach clay shooting amid the real-world conditions that only untouched, natural settings can provide. All avid shooters, the instructors started the business after looking for a place to practice with tournament-style targets and chart the migration patterns of clay pigeons. Unable to find such a place, they set up shop amid a slice of Nevada's rolling foothills, big sky, and vast, open terrain. Here, they teach customers the proper techniques needed to blast clay targets out of the sky.

Gentle waves lap against the hull of the Tahoe Cruz as snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees peek through its sails. Helmed by U.S. Coast Guard–certified captains Mike and Jim, the 50-foot sloop glides along Tahoe's tranquil waters for afternoon and sunset cruises that sail travelers around the scenic lake, treating them to views of its abundant nature and grand homes—including Fleur du Lac, where parts of The Godfather Part II were filmed. Mike and Jim lead private charters as well, escorting groups as they take in the sights or race to interrupt a mermaid ex-girlfriend's wedding before she gurgles "I do."

Fishing guru Chris Wharton has fly-fished on America's glassy lakes for more than 35 years, part of which he has spent passing on his extensive knowledge of the sport as the guide and instructor at Stillwater Guide Service. He regularly takes groups out to fly-fish on the calm, trout-filled waters of nearby Lake Davis and Frenchman Lake, among others.

Chris knows that fly-fishing is infinitely more rewarding once one has attained the proper skill set. That's why his lessons focus on precision casting and hook-setting techniques that help students reliably net trout of up to 7 pounds. He also teaches groups how to read the waters for clues that help determine where trout are most likely to hunt for food, shelter, and the sharks that ate their wives. When he isn't leading three-hour lessons, Chris organizes full-day trips and overnight adventures to numerous aquatic destinations.

At 6,200 feet above sea level, Sailing Ventures' certified captains lead small groups into Lake Tahoe's waters, teaching them the skills needed to navigate their own aquatic adventures. The instructors can ferry students from beginner to advanced levels, with lessons catered to everyone from families to seasoned sailors wanting to make practical use of their anchor tattoos. Alternatively, the crew charters yachts into the lake, leaving passengers to enjoy the scenery.

Carved by glaciers, Lake Tahoe's bays and coastline set the perfect backdrop for Sailing Ventures' expeditions. Snow-capped mountains and dense forests paint the horizon as boats float atop waters clearer than the windows at a dermatologist's office.