On Tuesdays, Senior Farm and Ranch Broadcaster Ron Hays visits with Ben Hale of Western Livestock Auctions as he talks about the latest in the markets and more. Established in 1995, Western has grown into a multi-generational family-owned and operated business and stands as a symbol of tradition, excellence, and a deep-rooted passion for the cattle industry. Western Livestock Auctions operates the Western Livestock Commission Firm, which sells cattle on Mondays and Tuesdays. They also operate the livestock auction markets in Woodward, Comanche, Waurika, and Knoxville, Iowa.
Cattle markets across Oklahoma are getting 2026 off to a strong and active start, with early-year demand giving producers and buyers plenty to watch. At the Oklahoma National Stockyards, Ben Hale of Western Livestock says receipts and market tone reflect renewed participation following the holidays, calling it “a very good Monday” as volume and buyer interest both showed improvement.
Hale notes that total receipts reached “11,500 compared to 7,900 a year ago,” with feeder steers trading “steady to maybe a pinch lower,” while feeder heifers moved higher. Grazing cattle were particularly strong, as Hale pointed out that “the very front end of them was a lot higher.” Despite some recent rainfall, he says demand remains firm because buyers understand the tight supply situation and remain optimistic.
When it comes to value-added practices like weaning, Hale says quality is noticeable but not always decisive in today’s market. He referenced recent sales involving cattle that were “unweaned and bulls,” adding that prices were still strong. Hale explained that for producers who don’t background cattle, “they’re getting paid pretty good whether they wean them or don’t wean them,” especially given the high overall market levels.
Looking across regional markets, Hale expects steady to strong runs in the weeks ahead, with multiple sales already lining up. He says the overall mood is balanced between hoping for more moisture and appreciating strong prices, noting producers are “extremely thankful for what these cattle are bringing.” As the year begins, Hale says the incentive to stay engaged is clear, summing it up by saying cattle are “dollaring out good and getting along good.”
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
