Quantifying the best states for big bucks can produce a wide range of results. The rankings depend on the metrics used, which can vary greatly. There are many elements to consider when evaluating a state’s hunting quality, including hunter numbers, deer population, buck age structure, antler quality, and record-book entries. Other factors, such as tag availability and public hunting land, also play a role. Here are the top 12 states for big bucks, in no particular order.
1. Illinois
The Land of Lincoln ranks high for big bucks. Numerous counties are in the top 20 nationwide, and the state is home to the Luke Brewster buck, which scored 327 7/8 inches, the state record non-typical and No. 3 all-time. Illinois has about 825,000 whitetails, many of them trophy bucks. Hunting here isn’t cheap—non-residents should expect to pay nearly $400 or more. With more than 1,600 Boone & Crockett (B&C) entries, Illinois is a prime destination.
2. Indiana
Indiana was once under the radar for big bucks, but it’s gaining recognition. More than 300,000 hunters pursue whitetails here. Non-residents pay around $300 to $400 for licenses, depending on specifics. With over 1,000 B&C bucks recorded, it’s a state worth the investment.
3. Iowa
Iowa is famous for producing giant bucks. Hunters from across the country wait three to four years for a non-resident tag. Iowa has about 375,000 deer and 150,000 hunters, offering a good hunter-to-deer ratio. Although non-residents must wait and spend more than $500 on licenses, tags, and preference points, Iowa’s 1,500-plus B&C entries make it worth the effort.
4. Kansas
Kansas deer hunting isn’t a secret, though it’s not as productive as it once was. Still, it consistently produces top-end bucks. The state has about 750,000 deer and 120,000 hunters. Non-residents pay around $600 for a license and tag. With over 1,000 B&C whitetails, Kansas remains a solid option.
5. Kentucky
Kentucky is known for early-season velvet whitetails and good antler genetics. It ranks among the top five states for modern trophy buck opportunities. The state has about 1 million whitetails and 320,000 hunters. Non-residents pay more than $300, but with over 1,200 B&C entries, Kentucky offers good odds for trophy hunters.
6. Minnesota
Minnesota is one of the nation’s most underrated whitetail states. The north-central and southeastern counties are the best for trophy bucks, with St. Louis County being especially productive. Minnesota has nearly 800,000 deer and 475,000 hunters. Non-residents can hunt for under $200, a rare bargain in big-buck states. Minnesota boasts over 1,300 B&C bucks.
7. Mississippi
Mississippi may be better known for waterfowl, but it’s also a top state for mature whitetails. Around 80% of bucks harvested here are at least 3½ years old. With a deer herd of about 1.5 million and fewer than 200,000 hunters, Mississippi sees relatively low pressure. Non-resident hunting costs at least $400. For more details on deer hunting in Mississippi, visit VisitMississippi.org.
8. Missouri
Missouri consistently produces giant bucks, especially in the northern half of the state. It’s a popular spot for rifle hunting during the rut. Missouri has over 1.5 million whitetails and nearly 500,000 hunters. Non-residents pay close to $300 for a license and permit. The state has about 1,000 B&C entries, along with many more Pope & Young bucks.
9. Ohio
Ohio is a top destination for whitetail hunters, especially in the Midwest. It offers diverse habitat and good buck age structure throughout the state. Ohio has around 750,000 deer and 300,000 hunters. Non-residents pay about $250, and with nearly 1,300 B&C bucks, Ohio provides excellent hunting opportunities.
10. Oklahoma
Oklahoma has gained respect as a big-buck state in recent years. The state has about 725,000 deer and nearly 500,000 hunters. Hunting pressure has increased, prompting the state to raise non-resident license fees, which now exceed those of many other states. Oklahoma has more than 100 B&C bucks, making it a worthwhile destination.
11. Texas
Texas makes this list due to its sheer size and the abundance of large whitetails. The southern counties, particularly those near the Gulf, are known for producing trophy bucks. With over 5 million whitetails and more than 1 million hunters, Texas offers plenty of opportunity. It has around 900 to 1,000 B&C entries, giving hunters a fair chance at a record buck.
12. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a premier big-buck state, with Buffalo County being one of the top producers in the nation, according to the Boone and Crockett Club. Interestingly, the five biggest bucks came from less renowned areas, showing that the entire state has trophy potential. Wisconsin has about 1 million deer and 500,000 to 600,000 hunters. Non-residents pay around $200 for a license, and with more B&C bucks than any other state, Wisconsin is a top choice for serious whitetail hunters.
