Hunting is both need and hobby in America. Although lots of us would argue that, as many Americans make a move back toward self-reliance and emergency preparedness, hunting is, in fact, a critical skill.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service reports that in 2021 (the most recent data as of 2024), there were over 15.9 million licensed hunters, up by nearly 800,000 since 2018. This shows more people are getting into hunting.
In the U.S., hunters don’t have to go far to find a good spot. Most hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps sold in 2021, about 89%, were for hunting within the hunter’s own state. Note that this is the most recent data available. The information posted in 2023 was for licenses issued in 2021.
But the U.S. is big and varied. Hunters willing to travel find some states better for hunting because of easier laws, big game, or many different animals. Based on data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, some states are more popular for hunters coming from other states. These states offer different kinds of hunting experiences, from big game to a variety of species.
Using data from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Simple Family Preparedness has ranked the states in order of popularity with out-of-state hunters.
1. Idaho
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 277,899
- Percentage of total issued: 20.4% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $27,522,085
- Percent of state land designated public land: 68.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 47,502
- Antlered buck: 75.5%
Idaho topped the list with 277,899 non-resident licenses and $27,522,085 in sales, making the most of its 68.0% public land. The state’s whitetail deer harvest of 47,502, mostly antlered bucks, is fairly modest, but hunters also come here for turkey, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn, bear, goats, and bighorn sheep, as well as upload bird hunting.
2. Wisconsin
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 262,100
- Percentage of total issued: 5.8% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $7,957,866
- Percent of state land designated public land: 14.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 309,392
- Antlered buck: 49.5%
Wisconsin, with 262,100 non-resident licenses issued, draws hunters to its 14.7% public lands. The state’s substantial whitetail deer harvest of 309,392 highlights its abundant deer populations and solidifies its place as a top Midwestern destination for deer hunting.
3. Colorado
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 234,856
- Percentage of total issued: 29.4% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $59,814,909
- Percent of state land designated public land: 44.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 40,561
- Antlered buck: 76.8%
Colorado issued 234,856 non-resident licenses for hunting on its 44.7% public land. The state’s whitetail deer harvest was 40,561, predominantly antlered bucks, but there’s plenty of other game in the Rocky Mountains. In Colorado, you can hunt mule deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, and bear, along with a number of other species.
4. Montana
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 201,393
- Percentage of total issued: 18.5% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $27,449,806
- Percent of state land designated public land: 37.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 44,714
- Antlered buck: 62.5%
Montana, with 201,393 non-resident licenses sold, offers expansive hunting grounds across 37.6% public land. The state’s whitetail deer harvest was 44,714, with a majority being antlered bucks. But there’s also ample opportunity for hunting bear, mule deer, anteplope, elk, Shiras moose, bighorn sheep, turkey, bison, and small game.
5. Georgia
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 178,466
- Percentage of total issued: 11.4% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $10,602,061
- Percent of state land designated public land: 9.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 257,454
- Antlered buck: 37.7%
Georgia issued 178,466 non-resident licenses, capitalizing on its 9.9% public land to support a vibrant deer hunting culture. The state reported a significant harvest of 257,454 whitetail deer, making it an attractive destination for hunters in search of plentiful opportunities in the Southeast.
6. Tennessee
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 159,023
- Percentage of total issued: 15.1% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $6,113,188
- Percent of state land designated public land: 10.2% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 132,214
- Antlered buck: 56.4%
Tennessee issued 159,023 non-resident licenses, drawing hunters to its 10.2% public lands. With a harvest of 132,214 whitetail deer, Tennessee blends its rich hunting traditions with abundant wildlife. You can bag yourself bear, elk, turkey, and small game, alongside the coveted whitetails.
7. West Virginia
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 150,752
- Percentage of total issued: 22.0% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $5,045,931
- Percent of state land designated public land: 12.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 105,274
- Antlered buck: 61.0%
West Virginia welcomed 150,752 non-resident hunters, offering access to its rugged terrain across 12.1% public land. The state saw a whitetail deer harvest of 105,274, with a high percentage of antlered bucks, making it a favored spot for Eastern U.S. hunters looking for challenging and rewarding hunts.
8. Kansas
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 148,657
- Percentage of total issued: 35.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $16,748,471
- Percent of state land designated public land: 1.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 84,007
- Antlered buck: 53.8%
Kansas, despite having the lowest percentage of public land at 1.9%, issued 148,657 non-resident hunting licenses. The state’s wide-open spaces and agricultural fields contributed to a substantial whitetail deer harvest of 84,007, affirming Kansas’s status as a premier destination for hunters seeking trophy bucks.
9. New Mexico
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 144,624
- Percentage of total issued: 29.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $13,471,727
- Percent of state land designated public land: 47.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 8,827
- Antlered buck: 98.4%
New Mexico stands out with 144,624 non-resident licenses issued in 2021, using its 47.6% public land to offer varied hunting experiences. The state’s whitetail deer harvest was smaller at 8,827, but nearly all were antlered bucks, so, in terms of deer hunting, New Mexico’s appeal is for quality over quantity. But there’s plenty of other species to hunt, including elk, ibex, onyx, sheep, antelope, bear, and more.
10. North Dakota
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 139,005
- Percentage of total issued: 24.7% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $6,916,885
- Percent of state land designated public land: 21.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 32,417
- Antlered buck: 59.8%
North Dakota, with 139,005 non-resident licenses sold and 21.6% public land, might be known for its waterfowl and upland game, but it also offers solid whitetail hunting, as evidenced by a harvest of 32,417 deer. Its prairies and badlands offer unique hunting experiences far from the crowded woods of more traditional deer hunting states.
11. Arkansas
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 131,203
- Percentage of total issued: 25.7% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $11,056,366
- Percent of state land designated public land: 13.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 181,379
- Antlered buck: 47.7%
Arkansas issued 131,203 non-resident licenses, providing access to its 13.6% public lands. Hunters took 181,379 deer, benefiting from the state’s varied landscapes and healthy deer populations, which contribute to its reputation as a hunter’s paradise.
12. Kentucky
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 112,806
- Percentage of total issued: 20.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $10,143,234
- Percent of state land designated public land: 7.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 132,328
- Antlered buck: 51.4%
Kentucky welcomed 112,806 non-resident hunters, drawn by its 7.7% public land and a whitetail harvest of 132,328. Kentucky’s rolling hills, forests, and fields offer excellent deer hunting opportunities, with a good chance of bagging a mature buck.
13. South Carolina
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 111,639
- Percentage of total issued: 11.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $5,546,379
- Percent of state land designated public land: 9.4% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 182,880
- Antlered buck: 52.1%
In South Carolina, 111,639 non-resident licenses were issued, with hunters enjoying the state’s 9.4% public land and harvesting 182,880 whitetail deer. The state’s mild climate and long seasons make it an attractive hunting destination in the Southeast.
14. South Dakota
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 105,873
- Percentage of total issued: 29.4% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $12,822,125
- Percent of state land designated public land: 16.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 55,141
- Antlered buck: 62.6%
South Dakota issued 105,873 non-resident licenses, leveraging its 16.9% public land to offer diverse hunting experiences, including a whitetail deer harvest of 55,141. The state is renowned for its pheasant hunting but also provides substantial opportunities for deer hunters.
15. Arizona
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 100,746
- Percentage of total issued: 16.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $6,890,378
- Percent of state land designated public land: 55.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 14,416
- Antlered buck: 99.3%
Arizona, with 100,746 non-resident licenses sold, offers vast public lands covering 55.1% of the state. While whitetail deer harvested numbers are lower at 14,416, nearly all were antlered bucks, making Arizona a unique spot for hunters pursuing quality over quantity in the West’s rugged landscapes.
16. Mississippi
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 99,449
- Percentage of total issued: 23.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $8,926,508
- Percent of state land designated public land: 9.8% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 269,901
- Antlered buck: 42.6%
Mississippi issued 99,449 non-resident licenses in 2021, with public land making up 9.8% of the state. Hunters harvested 269,901 deer, highlighting Mississippi’s rich deer hunting culture and its status as a premier destination for those in search of a successful hunt.
17. Missouri
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 98,132
- Percentage of total issued: 5.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $12,410,731
- Percent of state land designated public land: 7.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 295,143
- Antlered buck: 48.7%
Missouri saw 98,132 non-resident hunters, drawn by its diverse habitats across 7.6% public land. The state’s robust deer population led to a harvest of 295,143 whitetails, offering plentiful opportunities for both meat hunters and trophy seekers.
18. Illinois
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 90,663
- Percentage of total issued: 6.1% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $16,790,777
- Percent of state land designated public land: 4.3% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 146,422
- Antlered buck: 47.3%
Illinois issued 90,663 non-resident hunting licenses, attracting hunters with the promise of large whitetail bucks. The state, despite having one of the lower percentages of public land at 4.3%, reported a harvest of 146,422 deer. Illinois remains a top choice for those chasing a trophy whitetail.
19. Ohio
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 85,336
- Percentage of total issued: 9.7% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $9,663,674
- Percent of state land designated public land: 6.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 196,988
- Antlered buck: 45.2%
Ohio welcomed 85,336 non-resident hunters in 2021, with public land covering a modest 6.0% of the state. Despite this, Ohio boasts a significant whitetail deer harvest of 196,988, making it a go-to destination for hunters seeking trophy bucks in the Midwest’s agricultural and wooded landscapes.
20. Nebraska
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 83,775
- Percentage of total issued: 20.9%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $7,225,808
- Percent of state land designated public land: 2.4% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 44,802
- Antlered buck: 60.4%
Nebraska issued 83,775 non-resident hunting licenses, capitalizing on its 2.4% public land by providing access to diverse habitats and game. The state’s whitetail deer harvest stood at 44,802. Nebraska offers hunters a mix of prairie and woodland settings for their pursuits.
21. Wyoming
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 79,569
- Percentage of total issued: 28.9% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $23,483,498
- Percent of state land designated public land: 54.2% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 35,061
- Antlered buck: 68.3%
Wyoming sold 79,569 non-resident licenses, leveraging its 54.2% public land to offer wide-ranging hunting adventures, including for whitetail deer, with a harvest of 35,061. Its landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop for hunting big game and exploring the rugged beauty of the West.
22. Iowa
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 79,161
- Percentage of total issued: 11.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $8,146,265
- Percent of state land designated public land: 3.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 102,810
- Antlered buck: 43.9%
23. Texas
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 76,599
- Percentage of total issued: 4.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $11,730,687
- Percent of state land designated public land: 4.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 827,930
- Antlered buck: 54.1%
Texas issued 76,599 non-resident licenses, with the state’s minimal public land at 4.1% offset by its vast private lands teeming with wildlife. The state leads with an astonishing whitetail deer harvest of 827,930, making it a top destination for hunters seeking the quintessential Texan hunting experience.
24. Michigan
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 73,705
- Percentage of total issued: 3.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $4,851,976
- Percent of state land designated public land: 15.3% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 395,059
- Antlered buck: 56.6%
Michigan provided 73,705 non-resident licenses in 2021. With 15.3% public land, it’s known for its rich hunting culture. In 2021, it reported a whitetail deer harvest of 395,059. Michigan’s forests and fields offer some of the best deer hunting experiences in the Midwest.
25. Oregon
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 73,412
- Percentage of total issued: 6.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $6,800,898
- Percent of state land designated public land: 56.8% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 39,588
- Antlered buck: 91.4%
Oregon, with 73,412 non-resident licenses sold and 56.8% public land, is a popular hunting destination. The state reported a harvest of 39,588 whitetail deer, with an impressive 91.4% being antlered bucks, making it a prime location for hunters seeking the challenge of the Pacific Northwest’s diverse environments.
26. New York
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 70,991
- Percentage of total issued: 6.5% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $4,521,101
- Percent of state land designated public land: 15.3% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 211,269
- Antlered buck: 52.5%
New York issued 70,991 non-resident licenses in 2021. The state offers 15.3% public land but has a significant whitetail deer harvest of 211,269. New York’s varied terrain, from the Adirondacks to the Catskills, presents diverse hunting opportunities for all skill levels.
27. Alaska
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 70,920
- Percentage of total issued: 12.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $2,133,238
- Percent of state land designated public land: 56.2% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: N/A
Alaska offered 70,920 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021. With no whitetail deer to hunt, the state still attracts hunters from all over due to its vast wilderness, covering 56.2% of the state as public land. Alaska provides unique hunting experiences, including big game like moose, bear, and caribou.
28. Alabama
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 67,183
- Percentage of total issued: 7.9% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $8,605,656
- Percent of state land designated public land: 5.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 301,122
- Antlered buck: 40.9%
Alabama, with 67,183 non-resident licenses issued, combines its deep-rooted hunting traditions with significant deer populations, leading to a harvest of 301,122 whitetail deer. Despite having one of the lower percentages of public land, the state’s warm climate and long hunting seasons make it a favorite for hunters from across the nation.
29. Maryland
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 66,013
- Percentage of total issued: 20.5% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $3,294,085
- Percent of state land designated public land: 14.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 67,445
- Antlered buck: 41.4%
Maryland issued 66,013 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021, and has 14.1% public land and a robust whitetail deer population. The state recorded a harvest of 67,445 deer, offering a promising destination for hunters seeking deer, particularly on the Eastern Shore and in the rolling hills of the western part of the state.
30. Oklahoma
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 60,157
- Percentage of total issued: 16.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $6,852,283
- Percent of state land designated public land: 11.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 117,629
- Antlered buck: 58.9%
Oklahoma welcomed 60,157 non-resident hunters, with public lands comprising 11.7% of the state. The whitetail deer harvest of 117,629 was almost 60% antlered bucks. There’s plenty of other game to hunt here, too.
31. Pennsylvania
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 54,464
- Percentage of total issued: 5.7% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $7,365,668
- Percent of state land designated public land: 18.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 376,810
- Antlered buck: 38.6%
Pennsylvania saw 54,464 non-resident hunting licenses sold in 2021. With public land making up 18.7% of the state and a whitetail deer harvest of 376,810, Pennsylvania ranks as a premier hunting destination.
32. Utah
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 53,883
- Percentage of total issued: 11.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $7,757,083
- Percent of state land designated public land: 72.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 0
Utah issued 53,883 non-resident licenses, with its public lands spanning an impressive 72% of the state, second only to Nevada. Although whitetail deer are not part of Utah’s game offerings, you can still hunt mule deer, elk, antelope, turkeys, and more.
33. Minnesota
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 51,635
- Percentage of total issued: 3.5% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $4,201,403
- Percent of state land designated public land: 18.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 184,698
- Antlered buck: 54.2%
In Minnesota, 51,635 non-resident hunting licenses were sold, offering hunters vast public lands covering 18.9% of the state. The whitetail deer harvest totaled 184,698, with a substantial portion being antlered bucks.
34. Louisiana
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 49,667
- Percentage of total issued: 8.2% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,991,037
- Percent of state land designated public land: 10.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 233,400
- Antlered buck: 55.0%
Louisiana issued 49,667 non-resident licenses in 2021, attracting hunters with its unique blend of cultures and landscapes. Despite having less public land at 10.1%, the state reported a remarkable whitetail deer harvest of 233,400, so there’s plenty of good hunting here.
35. Virginia
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 48,382
- Percentage of total issued: 6.3% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $4,468,597
- Percent of state land designated public land: 16.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 191,731
- Antlered buck: 49.0%
Virginia welcomed 48,382 non-resident hunters in 2021, with its mix of history and abundant wildlife drawing hunters nationwide. The state’s public lands may not be as extensive as others, covering 16% of its area, but the impressive whitetail deer harvest of 191,731, nearly half being antlered bucks, speaks to the quality of hunting opportunities available.
36. Nevada
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 36,583
- Percentage of total issued: 25.0% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $4,006,161
- Percent of state land designated public land: 83.2% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 0
Nevada stands out with 36,583 non-resident licenses issued, thanks to its unparalleled public land availability, the highest in the country at 83.2%. Although there are no whitetails here, you can hunt pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elks, goats, mule deer, black bear, and more.
37. Maine
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 35,496
- Percentage of total issued: 14.5% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $3,255,392
- Percent of state land designated public land: 18.1% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 38,947
- Antlered buck: 55.7%
Maine issued 35,496 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021, reflecting its popularity among those seeking hunting experiences away from their home state. With public land covering 18.1% of the state, hunters have access to ample areas for pursuing game. The state saw 38,947 whitetail deer harvested, over half of which were antlered bucks.
38. North Carolina
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 29,324
- Percentage of total issued: 8.8% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $2,852,672
- Percent of state land designated public land: 10.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 168,427
- Antlered buck: 53.0%
North Carolina, with 29,324 non-resident hunting licenses issued in 2021, presents a compelling mix of public lands and a robust deer population. The state saw a harvest of 168,427 whitetail deer, emphasizing its status as a premier hunting destination with ample opportunities for hunters.
39. California
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 26,457
- Percentage of total issued: 2.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,246,471
- Percent of state land designated public land: 55.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 0
California, with its vast public lands covering 55.9% of the state, issued 26,457 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021. However, it reported no whitetail deer harvest, as there aren’t any white tails in California. There are plenty of other species to hunt though, including elk, black bear, black tailed deer, mule deer, and small game.
40. Florida
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 25,391
- Percentage of total issued: 7.9% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,547,881
- Percent of state land designated public land: 27.0% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 74,071
- Antlered buck: 70.5%
Florida welcomed 25,391 non-resident hunters in 2021, with public land making up 27% of the state. The deer harvest count stood at 74,071, with a high percentage of antlered bucks.
41. New Jersey
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 24,457
- Percentage of total issued: 7.6% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,260,711
- Percent of state land designated public land: 23.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 36,787
- Antlered buck: 43.2%
New Jersey issued 24,457 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021, and with 23.6% of its land as public, it offers ample hunting grounds. The state reported a deer harvest of 36,787, providing hunters with plenty of opportunities to take home tasty venison.
42. Indiana
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 24,141
- Percentage of total issued: 5.9% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $2,782,471
- Percent of state land designated public land: 4.7% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 112,482
- Antlered buck: 47.8%
Indiana stands out with 24,141 non-resident licenses sold in 2021. Despite having one of the lowest percentages of public land, the state boasts a remarkable whitetail deer harvest of 112,482, highlighting its effective wildlife management and the abundance of deer hunting opportunities.
43. New Hampshire
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 23,335
- Percentage of total issued: 13.9% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,615,871
- Percent of state land designated public land: 24.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 12,551
- Antlered buck: 64.6%
In New Hampshire, 23,335 non-resident hunting authorizations were issued in 2021, making it a favored destination, with public lands covering nearly a quarter of the state. Hunters there took home 12,551 whitetail deer, mirroring the state’s commitment to maintaining a vibrant wildlife habitat and offering enriching hunting experiences.
44. Massachusetts
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 21,719
- Percentage of total issued: 7.8% of total
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $552,371
- Percent of state land designated public land: 19.4% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 12,403
- Antlered buck: 64.8%
Massachusetts offered 21,719 non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps in 2021. Although it ranks fourth lowest in non-resident sales, the state still attracts hunters with its public lands and whitetail deer populations. With 12,403 deer harvested in 2021, and a significant portion being antlered bucks, Massachusetts proves to be a rewarding destination for those seeking deer hunting opportunities in New England.
45. Vermont
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 17,406
- Percentage of total issued: 8.8%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,008,154
- Percent of state land designated public land: 16.5% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 15,858
- Antlered buck: 57.6%
Vermont issued 17,406 non-resident hunting licenses in 2021. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including a healthy population of whitetail deer, with 15,858 harvested in 2021. Vermont shows how diverse the hunting experience can be across the U.S.
46. Washington
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 15,289
- Percentage of total issued: 1.9%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $1,298,049
- Percent of state land designated public land: 38.3% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 24,318
- Antlered buck: 89.1%
Washington stands out in the Pacific Northwest, with 15,289 non-resident licenses issued in 2021. It has a lot of public land, and hunters there harvested 24,318 whitetail deer in 2021. The state’s variety of landscapes offers hunters many different experiences.
47. Rhode Island
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 7,505
- Percentage of total issued: 12.7%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $137,436
- Percent of state land designated public land: 10.9% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 2,164
- Antlered buck: 56.1%
Rhode Island may be small, but it’s mighty in hunting circles, issuing 7,505 non-resident licenses in 2021. It has less public land but manages its deer populations well, with 2,164 deer harvested in 2021. This shows that good management can make even limited spaces great for hunting.
48. Delaware
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 7,161
- Percentage of total issued: 12.2%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $578,951
- Percent of state land designated public land: 14.6% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 15,383
- Antlered buck: 44.8%
Delaware, a small state, also attracts hunters from outside. It issued 7,161 non-resident licenses in 2021. With public land making up a smaller portion of the state, Delaware still offers good hunting opportunities, especially for whitetail deer, with 15,383 deer harvested in 2021.
49. Connecticut
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 4,353
- Percentage of total issued: 3.4%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $358,555
- Percent of state land designated public land: 15.8% of state land
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: 8,799
- Antlered buck: 65.3%
In Connecticut, 4,353 non-resident hunting authorizations were issued in 2021. This state has a moderate amount of public land and harvested 8,799 whitetail deer in 2021. It shows that even in smaller states with less public land, hunting can still be very active and rewarding.
50. Hawaii
- Number of issued non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, & stamps in 2021: 1,253
- Percentage of total issued: 10.0%
- Sales value of issued non-resident hunting license, tag, permit, & stamp in 2021: $131,565
- Percent of state land designated public land: 40.5%
- Whitetail deer harvested, 2021: N/A
Hawaii might surprise you as a hunting destination. In 2021, it issued 1,253 hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps to people from other states. This was about 10% of its total. Hawaii has a lot of public land, over 40%, but no whitetail deer. There’s axis deer, though, along with feral pigs and goats, wild turkeys, sheep, Vancouver bulls, and antelope.
Methodology
To determine the most popular states for hunters, Simple Family Preparedness analyzed data on hunting license allocations provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The analysis focused on the count of paid hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps distributed to non-residents in 2021, using these numbers as indicators of each state’s appeal to hunters living outside its borders.
Further insights were drawn from the total sales revenue generated by these non-resident hunting licenses, tags, permits, and stamps in 2021, also sourced from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This financial data highlights the economic impact of hunting tourism in each state.
The availability of public land for hunting, a critical aspect for many hunters, was considered using information from the Protected Areas Database program of the U.S. Geological Survey. This database offers a snapshot of the proportion of state lands designated as public and therefore potentially accessible for hunting.
Additionally, the National Deer Association, dedicated to deer wildlife and habitat preservation, provided supplementary data on the number of whitetail deer harvested across 45 states in 2021. This measure serves as a proxy for the abundance of hunting opportunities and the overall health of deer populations within each state, further informing the rankings.
Best Hunting Rifles of the Last 50 Years
Choosing the “best” hunting rifle is a pretty personal thing. We all have different opinions and preferences on what we like to hunt with. But still, over the last 50 years, there have been some remarkable weapons. Over the past half-century, the evolution of hunting rifles has seen so many innovations, catering to a wide range of needs from the casual deer hunter to the adventurous big-game enthusiast.
What’s your favorite hunting rifle? Which weapons deserve a spot on this list?
- Read More: Best Hunting Rifles of the Last 50 Years
14 Most Versatile Hunting Cartridges
With almost 16 million hunters in the United States, and with such a huge range of game to hunt, the right rifle and the best cartridge is critical. We have some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, with animals ranging from tiny squirrels to gigantic moose.
The cornerstone of a successful hunt lies in the hunter’s skill and knowledge but also in the choice of ammunition. The right cartridge can make all the difference, offering the power needed for a clean, humane kill without compromising the quality of the game.
- Read More: 14 Most Versatile Hunting Cartridges
38 Things Every Prepper Should Stockpile That Aren’t Water, Food, or Weapons
This list extends beyond the basic survival trio of water, food, and weapons. It’s a given that we need to stock up on water, food, and a way to defend ourselves and what we have. But what other things will you need in a survival situation?
None of us truly knows what TEOTWAWKI will really look like, although most of us have theories we think most likely. But whatever the situation is, there are certain supplies that it just makes sense to have on hand, aside from the obvious trio I mentioned above.
