Two main factors distinguish the best states for hunting. One is the number of hunters and the public lands that are open to them. The other factors that are considered when choosing a hunting state are its hunting traditions, game regulations, and variety. Today, we will be looking at the best states you can hunt in for 2023.
Alaska
In addition to being one of the best places for fishing, Alaska also has some of the most beautiful hunting areas in the world. Over 74% of the state’s land is open to hunting. This translates to almost 292 million acres of hunting territory. In fact, in 2020, almost 13% of the Alaskan population owned a hunting license.
Alaska has plenty of big game to hunt, such as grizzly bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats. You can learn more about the state’s hunting opportunities by visiting the Department of Fish and Game’s website.
Idaho
In Idaho, hunting is very popular, as around 17% of the state’s population is involved in the sport. Although this percentage is a significant chunk of the population, over 60% of the land is public. The state has plenty of diverse habitats that are home to various animals, such as elk, wolves, turkeys, mountain lions, and black bears. If you’re looking for a controlled hunt, you can hunt moose, antelope, and bighorn sheep. Non-resident and resident hunters can apply for licenses through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website’s application section.
Wyoming
The least populated state in the country, Wyoming, has plenty of room for hunters. There are over 31 million acres of land available to hunters, and it boasts plenty of big game. About one-quarter of the state’s population hunts the public lands, which accounts for about half of the state’s total land area. You can enjoy hunting elk, antelope, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
Although Wyoming is a great place to hunt, it requires a license, and non-resident hunters must hire a guide. If you don’t have that, you must have a resident companion to accompany you while hunting in federal wilderness areas. You can learn more about the hunting process and obtaining a license in the state by visiting the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website.
Montana
One of the most popular hunting regions in the country is Montana. The state’s population is mainly composed of hunters, and over 30 million acres of land are available for hunting. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy hunting elk, bison, moose, and black bears, among other animals. You can find out more information about the hunting regulations and licenses in the state by visiting the state’s Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department’s website.
Wisconsin
Although it’s known for its deer hunting, Wisconsin also has plenty of opportunities to enjoy turkey hunting. There are over 7 million acres of land that’s available for hunting, and there are over 15,000 lakes. If you’re planning on going hunting in the state, you should make sure that you have hip waders.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, about 25% of residents are hunters, and it’s a tradition that’s widely celebrated in the state. It’s known for its upland bird and pheasant hunting and for offering various lottery opportunities for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and buffalo. There are over two million acres of land that’s available for hunting, and you can obtain a license in the state by visiting the state’s Game, Fish, and Parks Department website.