For many in America, hunting isn’t just a pastime—it’s a crucial skill for self-reliance, especially as more people embrace preparedness and survivalism. Mastering hunting can be the key to sustaining yourself and your family in an emergency.
The numbers back this up: in 2021, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service recorded over 15.9 million licensed hunters, up nearly 800,000 since 2018. That rise isn’t a fluke. More folks are taking up hunting, and it’s not hard to see why.
Most hunters don’t stray far from home. Around 89% of the hunting licenses sold in 2021 were for in-state hunts. But for those of us willing to travel, some states offer unique opportunities, whether it’s an abundance of big game or more flexible hunting laws.
Based on U.S. Fish & Wildlife data, some states have become go-to destinations for out-of-state hunters. If you’re serious about hunting, these states need to be on your radar for the sheer variety of game and the overall experience they offer.
Using this data, Prepping Pro Tips ranked the states in terms of popularity among non-resident hunters as well as what you can hunt there, and how many whitetail kills were recorded in each location.
50. Hawaii
Hawaii might not be the first place you think of for hunting, but it’s got some unique opportunities. In 2021, the state sold 1,253 non-resident licenses, and while there are no whitetail deer, you can hunt axis deer, feral pigs, goats, wild turkeys, and more. With 40.5% public land, Hawaii offers an adventure-filled hunting experience that’s hard to beat.
49. Connecticut
Connecticut may be small, but it offers plenty of hunting opportunities. In 2021, the state sold 4,353 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 8,799 whitetail deer, with 65.3% being antlered bucks. With 15.8% of the state as public land, Connecticut provides a good mix of forests and fields for hunters to enjoy.
48. Delaware
Delaware is another small state with solid hunting opportunities. In 2021, the state issued 7,161 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 15,383 whitetail deer. With 44.8% of those being antlered bucks, Delaware offers a decent chance to bag a good-sized buck, even with limited public land (14.6%).
47. Rhode Island
Rhode Island might be the smallest state, but it still attracts hunters. In 2021, it issued 7,505 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 2,164 whitetail deer. Over 56% of these were antlered bucks. With 10.9% public land, Rhode Island is a great place for those looking for a quick hunt close to the coast.
46. Washington
Washington offers diverse hunting opportunities with its mix of coastal, forested, and mountainous terrain. In 2021, the state sold 15,289 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 24,318 whitetail deer. Nearly 89% of those were antlered bucks, and with 38.3% public land, Washington offers some great spots for hunting in the Pacific Northwest.
45. Vermont
Vermont is small but mighty when it comes to hunting. In 2021, the state issued 17,406 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 15,858 whitetail deer. Over 57% of those were antlered bucks, and with 16.5% public land, there’s plenty of room for hunters to explore the state’s famous forests.
44. Massachusetts
Massachusetts may not be known for hunting, but it offers some great opportunities. In 2021, the state sold 21,719 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 12,403 whitetail deer. With 19.4% of the state as public land, hunters can still find plenty of places to get outdoors, especially in the forests of western Massachusetts.
43. New Hampshire
New Hampshire is known for its rugged, wooded terrain, making it an appealing destination for hunters who enjoy a challenge. In 2021, the state issued 23,335 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 12,551 whitetail deer. Over 64% of those were antlered bucks, and with nearly a quarter of the state being public land, New Hampshire offers a true wilderness experience.
42. Indiana
Indiana might not be the first place that comes to mind for hunting, but it’s got a solid deer population. In 2021, the state issued 24,141 non-resident licenses, and hunters took home 112,482 whitetail deer. With only 4.7% public land, Indiana still manages to deliver a great hunting experience, especially if you’re after some big Midwestern bucks.
41. New Jersey
New Jersey might be more urban than most places on this list, but it’s still got some solid hunting opportunities. In 2021, the state issued 24,457 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 36,787 whitetail deer. With 23.6% of the land being public, there are plenty of places to hunt, especially for those looking to hunt close to home in the Northeast.
40. Florida
Florida’s warm climate and long seasons make it a great spot for hunters looking to extend their time outdoors. In 2021, the state sold 25,391 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 74,071 whitetail deer. The state’s public lands cover 27%, and with opportunities to hunt everything from deer to wild boar and even alligators, Florida offers a unique hunting experience.
39. California
California may not have whitetail deer, but it offers a ton of other hunting opportunities. In 2021, the state sold 26,457 non-resident licenses, and while whitetail hunting isn’t an option, you can chase elk, mule deer, black bears, and even wild pigs. With 55.9% of the state being public land, there’s plenty of room to hunt in the Golden State’s diverse landscapes.
38. North Carolina
North Carolina’s mix of mountains, forests, and coastal plains makes it a diverse hunting destination. In 2021, the state sold 29,324 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 168,427 whitetail deer. Over 53% of those were antlered bucks. With 10.7% public land, North Carolina provides ample opportunities to hunt whitetail deer, as well as bear and turkey.
37. Maine
Maine is known for its dense forests and cold winters, making it a challenging but rewarding hunting destination. In 2021, the state issued 35,496 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 38,947 whitetail deer. More than half of those were antlered bucks. With 18.1% public land, Maine offers some of the best hunting in the Northeast, and if you’re looking for a rugged, backcountry experience, Maine should be on your list.
36. Nevada
Nevada is all about wide-open spaces. With 83.2% of the state being public land, there’s no shortage of room to hunt. In 2021, the state sold 36,583 non-resident licenses. While there are no whitetail deer, Nevada offers plenty of opportunities to hunt pronghorn antelope, elk, mule deer, and more. If you want a rugged Western hunting experience, Nevada delivers.
35. Virginia
Virginia is steeped in history, and its hunting culture is no exception. The state issued 48,382 non-resident licenses in 2021, with hunters harvesting 191,731 whitetail deer. Half of these were antlered bucks. With 16% public land, Virginia’s rolling hills and wooded areas offer prime opportunities for hunters. Whether you’re after deer, bear, or turkey, Virginia’s got you covered.
34. Louisiana
Louisiana’s blend of swamps, forests, and farmland make it a diverse hunting destination. In 2021, the state sold 49,667 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 233,400 whitetail deer. With 10.1% public land, the state offers plenty of opportunities for both big and small game hunting. The culture around hunting here is as rich as the landscape itself, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
33. Minnesota
Minnesota is a prime spot for whitetail deer hunters. The state issued 51,635 non-resident licenses in 2021, and hunters harvested 184,698 deer. With 18.9% public land, Minnesota offers vast forests, lakes, and fields, making it a great place for hunters to immerse themselves in nature. Over 54% of the deer taken were antlered bucks, making Minnesota a solid choice for serious deer hunters.
32. Utah
Utah is all about big landscapes and big game. While there are no whitetail deer here, the state’s 53,883 non-resident licenses sold in 2021 allowed hunters to go after mule deer, elk, antelope, and turkeys. With 72% of the land open to the public, Utah offers unparalleled opportunities for hunters who want to experience the West’s wide open spaces.
31. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s hunting traditions run deep. In 2021, the state issued 54,464 non-resident licenses, and hunters brought home 376,810 whitetail deer. With 18.7% of the state designated as public land, Pennsylvania offers plenty of space for hunters to explore. The deer here are abundant, and the state’s beautiful forests provide a picturesque backdrop for hunting.
30. Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s diverse landscapes make it a top spot for hunters. The state sold 60,157 non-resident licenses in 2021, and hunters harvested 117,629 whitetail deer, with nearly 60% being antlered bucks. Though only 11.7% of the state is public land, Oklahoma’s mix of forests, plains, and rolling hills offers plenty of game, from whitetail deer to waterfowl.
29. Maryland
Maryland might be a small state, but it punches above its weight in the hunting world. In 2021, the state sold 66,013 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 67,445 whitetail deer. With 14.1% public land, Maryland’s Eastern Shore is particularly well-known for hunting, offering a mix of marshlands and forests. Deer, waterfowl, and turkey all make this state worth a visit.
28. Alabama
Alabama’s long hunting season and warm climate make it a favorite for hunters across the country. In 2021, the state issued 67,183 non-resident licenses, and hunters took home 301,122 whitetail deer. Nearly 41% of those were antlered bucks. With only 5.9% public land, most hunting happens on private property, but that doesn’t stop Alabama from being a top destination for those who love Southern hunting traditions.
27. Alaska
Alaska is the ultimate destination for hunters seeking adventure. In 2021, it issued 70,920 non-resident licenses, and while there are no whitetail deer here, Alaska is home to some of the most exciting big game hunts in the world. With 56.2% of the state being public land, there’s plenty of wilderness to explore. Moose, caribou, and bear are top targets, and if you’re looking for a hunting trip that feels like a true expedition, Alaska is the place to be.
26. New York
New York might surprise you with its hunting opportunities. In 2021, the state sold 70,991 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested an impressive 211,269 whitetail deer. With 15.3% public land, New York offers a mix of forested mountains and rural landscapes. The Adirondacks and Catskills are particularly famous for rugged, rewarding hunts, making this state a sleeper hit for East Coast hunters.
25. Oregon
Oregon offers diverse hunting opportunities across its vast landscapes, with 56.8% of the state designated as public land. In 2021, the state issued 73,412 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 39,588 whitetail deer. What’s impressive is that over 91% of these were antlered bucks, making Oregon an ideal spot for hunters who love a challenge and value the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest.
24. Michigan
Michigan is a whitetail hunter’s paradise. In 2021, the state sold 73,705 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 395,059 deer. With 15.3% of the state being public land, you’ve got plenty of options to explore. Michigan’s forests and fields are teeming with wildlife, and over half the deer taken were antlered bucks. Whether you’re after a trophy or just filling the freezer, Michigan won’t disappoint.
23. Texas
Texas is in a league of its own. The state sold 76,599 non-resident licenses in 2021, and hunters harvested a jaw-dropping 827,930 whitetail deer. That’s the highest harvest on this list by a long shot. The catch? Only 4.1% of Texas is public land, so most hunting happens on private ranches. But with those numbers, Texas is the place to be if you want to hunt some serious whitetail.
22. Iowa
Iowa is known for its fertile lands and big deer. In 2021, the state issued 79,161 non-resident licenses, with hunters taking 102,810 whitetail deer. While only 3% of the state is public land, the quality of the deer makes it a great place to hunt if you can get access to private property. Iowa is one of those states where you’ve got a real shot at bagging a trophy buck.
21. Wyoming
Wyoming is a big game paradise. The state sold 79,569 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021, with hunters harvesting 35,061 whitetail deer. Wyoming’s vast landscapes, with 54.2% public land, are perfect for hunters looking to experience the thrill of big game hunting. It’s not just deer here; elk, pronghorn, and moose make Wyoming a top spot for any serious hunter.
20. Nebraska
Nebraska’s mix of prairie and woodland makes for a unique hunting experience. The state issued 83,775 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021, and hunters took 44,802 whitetail deer. More than 60% were antlered bucks. With just 2.4% public land, Nebraska offers great hunting despite its limited space, proving you don’t need a lot of land to bag a big one.
19. Ohio
Ohio’s combination of agricultural fields and wooded areas makes it a great spot for deer hunting. The state sold 85,336 non-resident licenses in 2021, with hunters harvesting 196,988 whitetail deer. Almost half of those were antlered bucks, and with 6% of Ohio’s land public, it’s a great state to get outdoors and chase some of the Midwest’s finest deer.
18. Illinois
Illinois might be more famous for cornfields than forests, but it’s also a premier deer hunting destination. In 2021, the state issued 90,663 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 146,422 whitetail deer. With 47.3% of those being antlered bucks, Illinois is a top spot for those seeking out a trophy whitetail. The state’s relatively low public land percentage (4.3%) doesn’t hold back its appeal.
17. Missouri
Missouri’s abundant deer population makes it a favorite for out-of-state hunters. In 2021, it sold 98,132 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 295,143 whitetail deer. Nearly half of those were antlered bucks, a testament to the state’s well-managed deer population. Although only 7.6% of Missouri is public land, there’s plenty of hunting to be had across its forests and fields.
16. Mississippi
Mississippi’s deep hunting culture makes it a prime destination, especially for deer hunters. With 99,449 non-resident licenses sold in 2021, hunters took home a massive 269,901 deer. While only 9.8% of the state is public land, the high deer harvest shows just how good Mississippi is for hunting. If you’re looking for a state where bagging a deer is almost a sure thing, Mississippi should be on your list.
15. Arizona
Arizona may not be your first thought when it comes to deer hunting, but it’s a top spot for those after quality over quantity. In 2021, 100,746 non-resident licenses were sold, and while the whitetail harvest was 14,416, a staggering 99.3% were antlered bucks. If you’re after a trophy, Arizona’s rugged terrain and 55.1% public land will give you plenty of opportunity, along with chances to hunt elk, javelina, and black bear.
14. South Dakota
South Dakota’s reputation for pheasant hunting is well-known, but its deer hunting shouldn’t be overlooked. In 2021, 105,873 non-resident hunters flocked to the state, where they harvested 55,141 whitetail deer. Over 62% of these were antlered bucks, so there’s no shortage of quality hunting. With 16.9% public land and expansive prairies, South Dakota offers a unique hunting experience for those willing to brave the wide open spaces.
13. South Carolina
South Carolina has plenty to offer hunters, with 111,639 non-resident licenses sold in 2021. The state is rich in whitetail deer, with a harvest of 182,880. Over half of these were antlered bucks. South Carolina’s 9.4% public land may not seem huge, but it’s enough for a successful hunt. The mild climate and extended hunting season make it an attractive option for those looking to extend their time in the field.
12. Kentucky
Kentucky knows how to draw in the out-of-state hunters, with 112,806 non-resident licenses issued in 2021. The state has a good balance of accessible public land (7.7%) and a strong whitetail deer population. That year, hunters harvested 132,328 deer, with 51.4% being antlered bucks. Kentucky’s mix of hills, forests, and fields makes for a prime hunting ground, especially if you’re chasing those big bucks.
11. Arkansas
Arkansas is a hidden gem for deer hunters. In 2021, it issued 131,203 non-resident licenses, and hunters took 181,379 deer. Nearly 48% of those were antlered bucks, making Arkansas a top choice for those after quality deer hunting. With 13.6% of its land public, you’ve got plenty of space to roam. The state’s varied landscapes, from forests to wetlands, offer excellent opportunities to hunt whitetail, turkey, and other game.
10. North Dakota
North Dakota might be known for its open plains, but it’s also a haven for deer hunters. In 2021, the state sold 139,005 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 32,417 whitetail deer. Nearly 60% of those were antlered bucks. With 21.6% of the state being public land, North Dakota offers an unforgettable hunting experience, especially if you’re looking to avoid the crowds found in more forested areas.
9. New Mexico
New Mexico offers some of the most varied hunting terrain in the country, with a wide range of game animals. In 2021, the state issued 144,624 non-resident licenses, but its whitetail deer harvest was smaller, at 8,827. However, nearly all of those were antlered bucks. With almost half the state (47.6%) open to public hunting, New Mexico is perfect for hunters seeking a high-quality experience. Elk, sheep, and bear are just a few of the species that make hunting here worth the trip.
8. Kansas
Kansas is all about big bucks. In 2021, the state sold 148,657 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 84,007 whitetail deer. More than half were antlered bucks. With only 1.9% public land, Kansas relies on its rich agricultural lands to provide plenty of trophy deer. If you’re after a record-breaking whitetail, Kansas is the place to be.
7. West Virginia
West Virginia’s rugged terrain makes it a challenging yet rewarding place to hunt. In 2021, the state issued 150,752 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 105,274 whitetail deer. With over 60% being antlered bucks, West Virginia is ideal for hunters looking for a tough hunt with a high reward. With 12.1% public land, the Appalachian forests provide plenty of room to roam.
6. Tennessee
Tennessee offers a fantastic mix of rich hunting culture and accessible game. In 2021, the state sold 159,023 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 132,214 whitetail deer. With over 56% being antlered bucks, Tennessee offers a solid shot at landing a great deer. With 10.2% public land, you’ve got options to hunt everything from deer to bear to elk.
5. Georgia
Georgia is a top choice for hunters in the Southeast. In 2021, the state sold 178,466 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 257,454 whitetail deer. Over a third of those were antlered bucks. While only 9.9% of the state is public land, Georgia offers vast hunting opportunities, especially in its abundant forests and farmlands. Deer, turkey, and small game are plentiful.
4. Montana
Montana is a big game hunter’s dream. In 2021, the state issued 201,393 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 44,714 whitetail deer, with over 62% being antlered bucks. With 37.6% public land, Montana offers endless opportunities to hunt deer, elk, moose, bear, and bighorn sheep. The state’s rugged terrain and stunning landscapes make for some of the most memorable hunts you’ll ever have.
3. Colorado
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains offer a hunting experience like no other. In 2021, the state issued 234,856 non-resident licenses, with hunters harvesting 40,561 whitetail deer, of which 76.8% were antlered bucks. With 44.7% of the state being public land, Colorado is perfect for those seeking a challenging, backcountry hunt. Elk, mule deer, and pronghorn are also abundant here, making it a must-visit for serious hunters.
2. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a powerhouse when it comes to deer hunting. In 2021, the state issued 262,100 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 309,392 whitetail deer. With 49.5% of those being antlered bucks, Wisconsin’s extensive public lands (14.7%) and rich hunting culture make it one of the best states in the Midwest for deer hunting. The state’s large deer population and variety of terrain offer something for every hunter.
1. Idaho
Idaho takes the crown as the top hunting destination in 2021. The state sold 277,899 non-resident licenses, and hunters harvested 47,502 whitetail deer, with 75.5% being antlered bucks. With 68% of the state being public land, Idaho is an incredible destination for hunters seeking big game like elk, moose, and bear, as well as some of the most scenic hunting landscapes in the country. If you’re looking for a place that offers it all, Idaho should be at the top of your list.
Methodology
To compile this list of the top hunting states, Prepping Pro Tips examined data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The main focus was on the number of paid hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps sold to non-residents in 2021. These figures helped highlight each state’s popularity among out-of-state hunters.
Additionally, the analysis looked at the revenue generated from these non-resident sales, providing insight into how hunting contributes to local economies. All sales data came from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Another important factor was the availability of public land for hunting, with data sourced from the Protected Areas Database by the U.S. Geological Survey. This resource gave us a clear picture of how much state land is accessible to hunters.
We also used data from the National Deer Association to review whitetail deer harvest numbers across 45 states in 2021. This information served as a key indicator of each state’s deer population health and hunting opportunities, further refining the rankings.
