Need Local's Input

[KRazawich]

So I've hunted in North Central PA for the past 15 years, just south of Elmira.

I'm now looking for some hunting land here in NY to purchase. However, being that I'm a bit clueless as to what I'm really looking for, I'm seeking your input.

I'm looking for hunting land, my first thought was that I wanted 30 or so acres that I can hunt. However, I'm now contemplating a 5 to 10 acre parcel that adjoins a state forest/state land.

You're thoughts?

Second topic I'm looking for advice on.... I've hunted land very similar to the southern tier, down near Elmira / Binghamton Area.

I've seen lots of land available in the Tug hill area - is there a decent deer population up there? I believe that it gets a ton of snow and the deer population migrates off the hill each year. Is this the fact? Does it affect the deer hunting each fall?

I look forward to your responses!

Thanks so much!

[phade]

First, I would look at drive/travel time. Closer the better imo. It's not a big deal to run a couple hours vs. 4 hours.

Second, in general, there are pockets of quality hunting around NY but most would agree that wNY has better hunting. Top deer counties are largely located in Regions 8 and 9. Land prices will vary, but if I had my way and targeting 30 acres, I'd focus on finding the right 30 acres mixed amongst large private land tracts rather than state land. You may have more hunting ground at your disposal; however, public land hunting can be frustrating and being next door means your herd depends on that public hunting impact. More people to trespass, etc.

I'd personally look at places such as Steuben, Yates, Ontario, southern Monroe or along the edges of bordering counties, Livingston, Cattaraugus, and Allegany. They are generally the ones that top the list in deer numbers and buck take (number and per sq. mile). If I narrowed that down with your locale in mind...I'd say Stueben/Allegany or southern Livingston, or Yates. Try to get in areas where ag is common/nearby or bordering...it'll been a boon the local deer herd as compared to state ground or forested lands. The right 30 acres are better than the wrong 100.