What State Is the Best Big Buck Destination?

by
posted on August 11, 2011
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
bs_2015_fs.jpg (7)

The Question: "What’s the best spot to kill a monster whitetail on a week-long trip?"

I ask myself this question every time I’m in the stand and the answer is always “somewhere else.”

The Expert Differal: Since my success with truly big bucks ranks up there with my ability to pick stocks & lottery numbers, I reached out to an expert. John Burrell is a Certified Wildlife Biologist and owner of both the High Adventure Company and Whitetail Destinations. His clients demand the best hunts availableso he’s constantly on the prowl for the best areas.

“It's hard to beat Texas as a whitetail state for a number of reasons, but first and foremost is the success rate that good ranches offer. While the Midwest is capable of growing huge deer it just can't compete with Texas in terms of success rates.”

In fact, Texas alone accounts forabout 10 percentthe Boone & Crockett Club whitetailentries.

“I think Missouri, Nebraska, and Kentucky may be the best bargains in whitetail hunting and, until recently, one of the best kept secrets," said Burrell.They are becoming better known as top whitetail destinations.”

It sounds to me like John is onto something: The biggest non-typical rack ever recorded was a pick-up (what a shame) from St. Louis County, Missouri, that measured 333 7/8.

The Conclusion: Texas

Tell us youropinion of the best spot for huge bucks. We’d love to know where they live.

Latest

USFWS Refuge Review
USFWS Refuge Review

USFWS Refuge Review Recommends Establishment of Hunting Coordinators

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published “Rooted in Purpose 2026” on Nov. 6, a review that identifies changes in the policies, organization and spending that can improve the National Wildlife Refuge System’s ability to better fulfill its mission and serve the public—including hunters. The 20-page document [PDF] was quickly lauded by conservation organizations.

A Coues Deer Smorgasbord

Five elusive Coues bucks in three days? Odds for that are low in the Southwest habitat the diminutive deer call home. But that never stopped a family from trying.

A Not-So-Country Gal Might Survive: 5 Things I Learned from my First Hunt

Follow along as American Rifleman's Managing Editor Melissa Dixon goes on her first deer hunt, picking up five important lessons along the way.

Carbon Synergy Climbing Sticks Recall

Hunters and others using Carbon Synergy Climbing Sticks should discontinue their use immediately.

Head to Head: The .35 Remington vs. the 360 Buckhammer

The .35 Remington, or the 360 Buckhammer? Which will take the edge in this latest Head to Head matchup.

Says Me: A Familiar Scene

What defines a trophy? It’s a question every hunter asks and answers throughout his or her career. In the beginning it may be any deer or any buck; the first wallhanger; the first head of Western game; a kid’s first deer; a limit of … whatever. Curious about an answer? Read on.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.