Top Hunting Places in New Castle, Pennsylvania

June 10, 2025

Located in the heart of Lawrence County, New Castle, Pennsylvania is a hidden gem for hunters who seek variety, accessibility, and an authentic outdoor experience. From thriving deer populations to small game and turkey hunting, the surrounding landscape offers a rich ecosystem supported by well-managed public lands and private hunting preserves. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top hunting areas near New Castle, permitted game, seasonal regulations, and what makes this region a magnet for seasoned sportsmen.

Why New Castle Is a Premier Hunting Destination

New Castle sits strategically between the lush woodlands of western Pennsylvania and the fertile farmlands that stretch into Ohio. This terrain diversity supports a range of game, including whitetail deer, wild turkey, pheasants, coyotes, and waterfowl. The region benefits from a strong conservation culture, with habitat preservation efforts spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and private landowners who prioritize sustainable wildlife management.

Best Public Hunting Lands Near New Castle

1. State Game Lands Number 150

One of the most popular hunting areas for locals, SGL 150 lies just north of New Castle and offers over 1,300 acres of prime woodland and open fields. It’s especially known for:

Archery and rifle deer hunting
Grouse and squirrel game
Access roads for easy parking and hauling

The dense oak forests and brushy thickets make it an ideal place for stalking or still hunting, while the open clearings offer excellent visibility for those using treestands.

2. Mahoning Township – Public Access Program Lands

Thanks to Pennsylvania’s Hunter Access Program, select private lands in Mahoning Township are open to public hunting. These properties feature a mix of:

Rolling farmland (excellent for turkey in spring)
Edge habitats that attract deer during the rut
Water sources and natural food plots

Maps and permissions are required, which can be obtained online or through the PA Game Commission interactive map.

Top Game to Hunt in the Region

Whitetail Deer

New Castle lies within WMU 1B, one of the most productive wildlife management units in the state. Archery season typically begins in late September and runs into January, while firearm season peaks in late November. Bucks in this area often grow large due to the abundance of crops and low hunting pressure in less trafficked areas.

Wild Turkey

Turkey hunting in the New Castle region is thrilling due to the area's mix of wooded ridges and creek bottoms. Spring gobbler season is the most active, with calls echoing through the hills around sunrise. Fall hunting is also available but requires more scouting.

Small Game and Predators

Squirrel, rabbit, and ruffed grouse are common in forested areas.
Coyotes can be hunted year-round and are frequently spotted in open farmland and abandoned properties.
Pheasant releases also occur in designated areas nearby, particularly around State Game Lands 148, just west of the city.

Private Hunting Preserves and Clubs

The Lawrence County Sportsmen’s Association

This long-standing hunting and shooting club offers members access to:

Archery and firearm ranges
Trap shooting and black powder competitions
Private managed grounds for hunting events

Pine Hill Game Preserve

Located less than 30 minutes from New Castle, this private preserve offers guided hunts for:

Ring-necked pheasants
Chukar partridges
European-style driven hunts

With well-trained dogs and experienced guides, it's ideal for hunters who want a controlled environment and high success rates.

Licensing, Regulations, and Safety

To hunt in New Castle, you must possess a valid Pennsylvania hunting license and applicable tags for species like antlered deer or spring turkey. Key requirements include:

Hunter-Trapper Education Course for first-time license holders
Blaze orange requirements during firearm deer and bear seasons
Permission slips for all private land access (even those enrolled in the public access program)

It’s crucial to stay current with seasonal updates, which are published annually by the PA Game Commission and available in both print and online formats.

Tips for Successful Hunting in New Castle

Scout early in the season using trail cameras and on-foot surveys to locate bedding areas and game trails.
Use wind direction to your advantage, especially in hilly terrain where air currents can shift midday.
Respect land boundaries, especially near farmland and suburban zones—many of which have strict "no hunting" policies.
Plan for the weather, as western PA can bring unpredictable fall and winter conditions. Waterproof gear and layers are essential.

Where to Gear Up Locally

New Castle is home to several well-equipped outfitters that cater to hunters:

Valley Ammo and Outdoors – Stocking a wide selection of ammunition, optics, and camo apparel, including tactical soft rifle cases for secure firearm transport.
Bullseye Firearms – Offers firearms, licenses, and accessories.
Dunham’s Sports (Shenango Valley Mall) – Convenient for last-minute items like scent blockers, broadheads, and insulated boots.

Hunting-Friendly Accommodations

For those traveling in for the hunt, New Castle offers several lodging options with hunter-friendly amenities:

Holiday Inn Express New Castle – Free breakfast, parking for trucks, and proximity to SGL 150.
Airbnb Cabins in Ellwood City – Rustic, pet-friendly, and situated near turkey hunting hot spots.
Local RV parks and campgrounds for those planning multi-day excursions with mobile setups.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're an archery enthusiast tracking trophy bucks or a traditional hunter calling in gobblers at dawn, New Castle, Pennsylvania delivers a complete hunting experience rooted in tradition, conservation, and challenge. With a range of public lands, accessible preserves, and thriving wildlife populations, it’s a top-tier hunting destination that remains off the beaten path—exactly how seasoned hunters like it.