Guides & Team

Allen Leinen

We’re thrilled to welcome Allen Leinen as the General Manager of Ross Hammock Ranch, bringing his wealth of experience and passion to our team. A natural leader, Allen has a deep expertise in machinery and property management, ensuring the ranch runs smoothly and efficiently. As a fourth-generation farmer, he continues to operate the family farm alongside his father, brother, and three adult sons, carrying on a proud legacy of hard work and stewardship.

Allen’s love for the outdoors began as a young boy, hunting with his brothers and cherishing the family time spent in nature. Those moments remain some of his fondest memories, and today, he creates new ones hunting with his sons. His lifelong connection to hunting and the land makes him a perfect fit for Ross Hammock Ranch, where he combines his outdoor passion with his knack for leadership to elevate the experience for guests and staff alike.

With Allen at the helm, you can expect a warm, family-oriented approach and a commitment to making every visit to Ross Hammock Ranch unforgettable.

Travis Newsome – Lead Guide at Ross Hammock Ranch

Since joining Ross Hammock Ranch in January 2009, Travis has been sharing his lifelong passion for hunting with guests from all walks of life. Born with a love for the outdoors, he got his first gun—a .410 shotgun—at just five years old and has been hooked ever since. With decades of experience in the field, Travis brings expertise, enthusiasm, and a knack for making every hunt unforgettable.

Travis thrives on the thrill of guiding hunters to their first harvest, whether they’re kids, adults, or first-timers stepping into the world of hunting. He’s had the privilege of leading a diverse crew—everyone from young beginners and handicapped hunters to professional athletes, celebrities, and international visitors from across the globe. Travis also uses his skilled dogs for hog hunts, adding an extra layer of excitement and intensity to the chase. No matter the background, Travis finds joy in teaching the art of hunting and creating memories that last a lifetime.

When you hunt with Travis, you’re not just getting a guide—you’re getting a mentor who’s as excited about your success as you are. His easygoing humor and deep knowledge make every trip a unique adventure at Ross Hammock Ranch.

Mike Holland – Guide (& Fishing Guide)

Mike Holland brings a wealth of expertise and passion to Ross Hammock Ranch, where he has served as a full-time hunting guide for three years and led fishing trips for nine years. A lifelong outdoorsman, Mike began deer hunting at age eight and has never looked back. His proudest moment came in 2011 in Georgia, when he harvested a Boone and Crockett buck that earned features in North American Whitetail Magazine, Georgia Sportsman, and Georgia Outdoor News. With a robust background as a USMC Primary Marksmanship Instructor, firearms instructor, EMT, First Responder, and Florida Hunter Safety Instructor, Mike ensures every hunt is safe, ethical, and unforgettable. His favorite moments at RHR are guiding clients—especially kids—through their first harvest or catch, finding immense reward in sharing the thrill of the outdoors. Whether stalking trophy game or casting lines in Florida’s pristine waters, Mike’s dedication and expertise make him an invaluable part of the RHR team.

Mike Towle – Guide

Mike Towle has been a dedicated hunting guide at Ross Hammock Ranch for over four years, joining the team in January 2021. Raised with a passion for the outdoors, Mike’s hunting journey began as a young boy with a BB gun, evolving into a lifelong pursuit of game across Florida’s wild landscapes. A proud U.S. Marine, husband, and father of two, Mike brings a down-to-earth enthusiasm to every hunt, finding joy in delivering successful experiences for guests from around the globe. His greatest reward is connecting with diverse hunters, sharing stories, and ensuring they leave RHR with memories of a thrilling and fulfilling adventure. With his deep-rooted love for hunting and commitment to exceptional guest experiences, Mike is a vital part of the Ross Hammock Ranch family.

Berna Johnson – Hospitality & Facilities Manager

Berna has been the heart of the kitchen at Ross Hammock Ranch for eight years, bringing her lifelong passion for cooking to every dish. Starting at age 14 in her mother’s restaurant, she honed her skills in the restaurant and hospitality industry, learning from exceptional chefs, including the talented DJ (her husband and RHR butcher), as well as her aunt and grandmother, who instilled in her the art of country cooking.

At Ross Hammock Ranch, Berna cherishes the opportunity to meet and serve wonderful people who appreciate her culinary creations. Known for her versatility, she happily cooks nearly anything her guests desire, with standout dishes like succulent pork chops, hand-cut ribeye steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, hearty loaded burgers, and crowd-pleasing bacon Swiss chicken sandwiches. Berna’s warmth and dedication make every meal at the ranch a memorable experience.