Public-land deer hunting is vogue now. That wasn’t always the case, mind you. It was oftentimes regarded as a second-rate option for hunters who couldn’t afford to own or lease land. Everyone wanted to hunt posh pieces of private, and if you didn’t, some hunters looked down on you.
Today, the script is flipped, and public land is finally having its day. Hunters across the nation are excited about hunting ground that’s open to all, and they aren’t afraid to tell everyone. Many of these hunters will say those who hunt private land have it easier.
For starters, regardless of whether you’re a private or public land hunter (or both), don’t bash the other side. Neither public nor private land hunting is easy. And most importantly, we’re all in this together. Hunting isn’t a competition.
That said, for those who want a challenge, here are some of the hardest public-land deer hunts to consider. Deer call these places home for a reason: it’s hard for hunters to access these. But if you have it in you, give it a try. You just might tag a stud.
1. BIG ISLAND SANCTUARIES
Whitetails have been inhabiting islands since the beginning. While it takes significant effort to get to these places, deer can
