Top Hunting Places in Erie, Pennsylvania

Erie, Pennsylvania, located on the shores of Lake Erie, is best known for its waterfront beauty—but it’s also a prime location for hunters seeking rich-game lands, fertile wetlands, and forested preserves and game lands. From white-tailed deer and turkey to waterfowl and small game, Erie offers access to well-maintained public lands and hidden private gems that make it one of the top hunting destinations in Northwestern Pennsylvania. With multiple State Game Lands, diverse ecosystems, and strong Wildlife Management Unit (WMU 1B) regulations, hunters in Erie enjoy a variety of opportunities throughout the year.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Erie

1. State Game Lands Number 109

Just 30 minutes southeast of Erie, SGL 109 is a hunter’s paradise with over 24,000 acres of rolling forest, wetlands, and open meadows. This is one of the largest and most diverse public hunting areas in the state.

Key Features:

• Prime habitat for whitetail deer and black bear
  
• Extensive trails and interior roads provide access to remote areas
  
• Ideal for fall turkey and spring gobbler seasons
  
• Ample waterfowl habitat near swamps and ponds
  

2. State Game Lands Number 314

Located in western Erie County, SGL 314 borders Lake Erie and is a premier spot for migratory bird hunting. Its unique shoreline habitat is excellent for waterfowl, especially during the late fall migration.

Key Features:

• Top destination for duck and Canada goose hunting
  
• Also home to deer, turkey, and small game
  
• Marshes and cattail-lined ponds attract birds during cold fronts
  

3. Presque Isle State Park (Waterfowl Zones Only)

While most of Presque Isle State Park is a recreation area, waterfowl hunting is permitted in designated blinds along parts of the peninsula. Managed in coordination with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, this is a unique and strategic location for experienced waterfowlers.

Key Features:

• Managed blind reservation system during migration season
  
• High success rates for diving ducks, geese, and puddle ducks
  
• Open-water access ideal for layout boat hunting

Private Hunting Opportunities Near Erie

4. Pymatuning Hunting Preserves

South of Erie in Crawford County, these private preserves offer guided pheasant and quail hunts with experienced handlers and trained dogs. Great for upland bird hunters looking for consistency and success.

Key Features:

• No license required for preserve hunting
  
• Stocked daily with birds throughout the fall
  
• Offers dog training services and hunting packages
  

5. Northwoods Outfitters

A full-service outfitter offering guided deer, bear, and turkey hunts throughout Northwestern PA. They offer access to private leases and landlocked tracts, making it a top choice for trophy-seekers.

Key Features:

• Archery, rifle, and muzzleloader hunts
  
• Lodging and meal packages available
  
• Guided hunts with high success rates

Wild Game Found in the Erie Area

White-tailed Deer

Deer populations are thriving in WMU 1B. Hunters enjoy generous antlerless license allocations, and public lands such as SGL 109 and 314 offer ample bedding, food, and cover.

Black Bear

Black bears are not uncommon in the remote corners of SGL 109, especially in the fall during food-driven movements. The region has solid bear hunting success, particularly during muzzleloader and rifle seasons.

Wild Turkey

With thick hardwoods and natural food sources, Erie’s public lands are ideal for both spring gobbler and fall turkey seasons. Spring gobbler hunting is a local favorite.

Waterfowl

Erie is located along the Atlantic Flyway, and the presence of Lake Erie and wetland habitats makes the region a top waterfowl hunting destination in the state.

Pheasant & Small Game

Pheasant stocking programs are active in multiple areas including SGL 109, and squirrel, rabbit, and grouse populations provide fun and frequent action for small game hunters.

Licensing and Hunting Requirements

All hunters in Erie must follow regulations set by the Pennsylvania Game Commission:

• General Hunting License (resident or non-resident)
  
• WMU 1B-specific tags, especially for antlerless deer
  
• Archery, muzzleloader, and waterfowl stamps as applicable
  
• Hunter-Trapper Education Certificate for first-time license buyers
  

Licenses can be purchased online or through local sporting goods stores in Erie County.

Best Seasons for Hunting in Erie, Pennsylvania

 

Local Tips for Hunting in the Erie Region

• Scout early: SGL 109 is massive—learn the terrain and pressure points before opening day.
  
• Use topo maps and digital apps: Apps like onX Hunt are essential for navigating public land boundaries.
  
• Focus on water edges: Lake Erie and surrounding wetlands are magnets for migratory birds and game.
  
• Check weather fronts: Cold fronts bring ducks, while snow cover makes deer more patternable.
  
• Hunt weekdays if possible to avoid weekend pressure, especially in waterfowl zones.
  

Recommended Hunting Gear for Erie Terrain

• Valid PA license and WMU 1B-specific tags
  
• Blaze orange vest or hat (as required by law)
  
• Waterproof boots and layered clothing
  
• Quality binoculars and rangefinder
  
• Tree stand or blind setup for deer hunting
  
• Waders and decoys for waterfowl
  
• Field dressing kit and cooler for game transport
  
• Map, GPS, or mobile app with offline maps
  
• Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for secure firearm transport
  

Conclusion: Erie is Northwestern PA’s Untapped Hunting Goldmine

Erie offers unmatched diversity and access for hunters in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re tracking a whitetail through the timber of SGL 109, calling in a spring gobbler, or setting up a decoy spread on Presque Isle’s shoreline, the region is packed with opportunity. Few places offer such a range of public land and species variety within such close proximity to an urban hub. Erie is truly a top hunting destination that deserves national attention.