NORTHWEST REGION
The Northwest Region probably ranks second only to the Southwest Region for trophy-buck hunting opportunities. And in some ways, it might be even better. Several state game lands, particularly in the western tier of counties, have excellent trophy buck potential.

WMUs 1A and 1B comprise some of the better trophy-buck habitat in Pennsylvania. Buck quality has improved considerably on WMU 2F, and this is a fine place to look for an older big-woods buck. But judging by antler size alone, it doesn't compare with the agricultural areas.

SOUTHWEST REGION
"Deer appeared to come through the winter pretty well," according to Barry Zaffuto, Southwest Region Land Management Group supervisor. "You're going to see some pretty nice bucks."

In this corner of the Commonwealth, that is really saying something. For many years, this region has dominated the record buck lists. Four of the top 10 typical bucks taken by bow came out of this region, three of them during the 2000s. On the state's trophy whitetail list, an amazing 24 of the top 50 bucks came from the Southwest Region.

If there's any downside, it would be that the best bucks tend to spend a lot of time on private land. However, there have been more additions to the state game lands here than in any other region.

Hunters seeking bigger bucks may want to look into Indiana, Westmoreland, Washington and Greene counties for some of the top trophy hunting on public lands.

Serious trophy hunters know that they must wait for the right buck to show up. Let the smaller deer go, even though it may mean ending the season without filling your tag.

For more information about deer hunting in Pennsylvania, contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797. Phone (717) 787-4250, or check the agency's Web site at www.pgc.state.pa.us .

Find more about Pennsylvania fishing and hunting at: www.pagameandfish.com