Top Hunting Places in Cheektowaga, New York

Cheektowaga, located just outside of Buffalo in Erie County, offers convenient access to some of Western New York's richest hunting grounds. Though it’s an urban-suburban town, it borders a region filled with diverse wildlife, state forests and public-access game management areas that make it ideal for seasoned hunters and beginners alike. Whether you’re looking to pursue whitetail deer, turkey, or migratory waterfowl, the hunting opportunities near Cheektowaga are as varied as they are rewarding.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Cheektowaga, NY

Tillman Road Wildlife Management Area

Located just 20 minutes east in Clarence, Tillman Road WMA spans nearly 235 acres of marshes, brushlands, and woodlands. It’s a prime location for small game and waterfowl hunters, offering diverse terrain and habitat.

Game Species:

• Rabbits
  
• Squirrels
  
• Ducks and geese (in season)
  

Hunting Notes:

• Open to licensed hunters during designated hunting seasons
• Non-toxic shot required for waterfowl
  
• Foot traffic only—no motorized access
  

Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area

Approximately 30 minutes north of Cheektowaga, this 5,600-acre area of marshlands, swamps, and open fields is one of Western New York’s premier waterfowl hunting destinations. The area also supports deer and turkey populations.

What Makes It Special:

• A large wetland area along Tonawanda Creek’s floodplain
• Designated waterfowl blinds available via permit
  
• Excellent for both migratory birds and big game
  

Species to Target:

• Mallards, teal, wood ducks
  
• Whitetail deer (bow and muzzleloader seasons)
  
• Wild turkey
  

Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve (Regulated Access)

Though hunting is not allowed directly inside the Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Cheektowaga, its bordering areas and nearby DEC-managed lands provide opportunities for legal hunting under proper licensing.

Hunters often look to adjoining parcels in Depew and Lancaster for access to private lands, particularly for bowhunting during deer season.

Best Private Hunting Options Near Cheektowaga

 

Double A Hunting Preserve – Attica, NY

Just 45 minutes southeast, Double A is one of the best-kept secrets for pheasant and upland game bird hunting in Western New York. The preserve operates on 350+ acres of managed habitat and offers guided or self-guided hunts.

Features:

• No hunting license required on the preserve
  
• Half-day and full-day hunts available
  
• Dogs welcome (or rent a guide with dogs)
  

Target Species:

• Pheasant
  
• Chukar
  
• Quail
  

Batavia Rod & Gun Club

A short drive to Genesee County, this members-only club offers private land access, a rifle range, and periodic hunting events. It’s ideal for those looking to practice and hunt in a controlled environment with like-minded enthusiasts.

Membership Benefits Include:

• Archery range
  
• Youth hunting programs
  
• Trap and skeet shooting
  

What You Can Hunt Around Cheektowaga

1. Whitetail Deer

New York’s Southern Zone (which includes Erie County) is renowned for deer hunting, with generous archery and muzzleloader seasons. Bowhunters in Cheektowaga favor quiet woodland tracts in Clarence, Attica, and Alden, just a short drive away.

Best Time:

• Late October to early December (rut season)
  

2. Waterfowl

The Lake Erie shoreline and wetland zones of Tonawanda WMA support thousands of migratory ducks and geese during fall and early winter. Blinds and decoys are essential for a productive hunt.

3. Turkey

Both spring gobbler and fall turkey seasons offer great hunting in nearby rural woodlots. Use calls and decoys near tree lines and clearings.

4. Small Game

Areas like Tillman Road and adjacent hedgerows in Alden offer exciting pursuits for rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and even foxes under the right permits.

Licensing, Rules & Requirements

New York State Hunting License

All hunters must carry a valid New York State hunting license, which can be purchased online or in person from licensed retailers such as Cabela’s in Cheektowaga or Field & Stream in nearby Amherst.

Permits You May Need:

• Deer Management Permits (DMPs) for antlerless deer
  
• Turkey tags
  
• Waterfowl privileges + Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp)
  
• Bow or muzzleloader privilege
  

Mandatory Hunter Safety Course

First-time hunters must complete the Hunter Education Course approved by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). This includes firearm safety, hunting ethics, and New York regulations

Where to Gear Up

Whether you’re heading into the woods for a weekend or preparing for a seasonal campaign, Cheektowaga has several local outfitters:

• Cabela’s – Cheektowaga Mall: One-stop shop for hunting gear, decoys, ammo, optics, and clothing.
  

• FS9 Tactical (Online): Specializes in soft rifle cases, range bags, and EDC gear, with fast shipping to all of New York State.
  

• Field & Stream – Amherst, NY: Offers bow tuning, firearm sight-in services, and local hunting advice.
  

Best Time of Year to Hunt Near Cheektowaga

 

 

Tips for a Successful Hunt Near Cheektowaga

• Scout early to find trails, rubs, or feeding areas before the season begins.
  
• Use mapping tools like OnX or HuntStand to identify public-access boundaries.
  
• Be weather-aware: Temperature drops can trigger increased deer activity.
  
• Silence your gear: In suburban-adjacent lands, deer are cautious and easily spooked.
  
• Log your harvest: NYSDEC requires online reporting within 7 days.
  

Final Thoughts

Cheektowaga is more than just a suburban town — it’s a gateway to top hunting destinations in Western New York. From marshy wetlands teeming with ducks to whitetail-rich woodlots just outside of town, there’s something for every hunter within an hour’s drive. Whether you're bowhunting local tracts or enjoying a day at a private preserve, the region offers abundant opportunity, stunning scenery, and an excellent blend of tradition and accessibility.