| Species | General Size | Trophy Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-150" | 170"+ |
High
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Located on the western edge of the state along the Nebraska border, this expansive zone extends from Sioux City in the north to the southern state line. It boasts a robust deer population with excellent genetics. The area is primarily composed of privately owned croplands, mixed with extensive stands of mature hardwoods, and features numerous creeks, rivers, reservoirs, and swamps. Compared to other zones, public land access here is relatively good, offering hunters several options for those who prefer to hunt exclusively on public grounds.
Similar to many other zones across the state, private lands dominate, making public access crucial for the do-it-yourself (DIY) hunter. State lands are spread throughout the unit but the largest concentrations of these will be found in the northwestern and southwestern corners. Additionally, there are many Wildlife Management Areas(WMA) available throughout the entirety of the zone. While private lands offer the best chances for success, hunters willing to dedicate effort and time to exploring public lands can still find a punched tag at the end of their hunt. Oftentimes, the best private lands are generally leased by outfitters. Looking into outfitters can be a great way to drastically increase your odds of success, and your odds of finding a good buck.
Some of the bigger portions of land you might consider for public access:
Many large towns are available within this unit that can provide access to modern lodging, groceries, gear, and other amenities depending on the area you are planning to hunt. Lodging can typically be found in the form of motels, hotels, and rental properties. Public campgrounds and RV parks cover the unit with many of these being available in and around the areas with the best public access options.
Some of the larger towns and cities located in this zone:
Roughly 4,455 square miles
3% public land
State lands near Pisgah - Near the town of Pisgah in the northwest corner of the zone there is an extensive collection of state lands that can be great to check out. This area has a great collection of mature hardwood stands and croplands. This is excellent deer habitat.
State lands near Hamburg - Near the town of Hamburg in the southwest corner of the zone there is a small collection of state lands that incorporate some large and mature hardwood stands.
Riverton WMA - This 3,900 acres WMA is found in the southern end of the zone and lies just southeast of the town of Sidney. Most of this area is developed marshland with waterfowl as the focus, but some great deer hunting can be had here as well.
Lake Shawtee WMA - This 1,000 acres WMA is located in the southeast corner of the zone just east of the town of Randolph. This grassland area is famous for pheasant and quail hunting, but also offers some great opportunities for whitetail deer.
Missouri River Drainage - Hunters will find several WMA's through the northern half of the unit along the Missouri River drainage. These areas all possess some excellent river bottom habitat and hunters can find some exceptional opportunities here.
Sioux City - Northwest corner
Blair - Located just outside of the western border in Nebraska
Omaha - Located just outside of the southwestern border in Nebraska
Harlan - Eastern edge
Denison - Northeast corner