Top Hunting Places in Reading, Pennsylvania

Reading, Pennsylvania, known for its rolling hills and proximity to the Appalachian foothills, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and hunters alike. Situated in Berks County, this region boasts rich forestland, state game lands, and a mix of private preserves, offering hunters ample opportunities to pursue white-tailed deer, wild turkey, pheasant, waterfowl, and small game. With easy access to Pennsylvania’s Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) and a balanced blend of public and private land, Reading stands out as a top hunting destination in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Best Public Hunting Locations Near Reading

1. State Game Lands Number 280

One of the most popular public hunting areas near Reading, SGL 280 spans over 2,500 acres in northern Berks County. It offers a mix of hardwoods, brush, open fields, and food plots, making it ideal for hunters of all kinds.

Key Features:

• Excellent populations of white-tailed deer and small game
  
• Seasonal pheasant stockings enhance upland bird opportunities
  
• Trailheads and parking make access easy for morning hunts
  

2. State Game Lands Number 106

Located just west of Reading in Tulpehocken Township, SGL 106 is a prime spot for turkey and archery deer hunting. Its wooded ridgelines and natural clearings are perfect for both stalking and stand hunting.

Key Features:

• Quiet, low-pressure area ideal for early-season archery hunts
  
• Good terrain for calling in spring gobblers
  
• Close proximity to Blue Marsh Lake for extended outdoor access
  

3. Blue Marsh Lake Hunting Areas

Blue Marsh Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, includes designated areas where hunting is permitted seasonally. These zones surround the lake’s expansive 6,100-acre project area and are excellent for a variety of game.

Key Features:

• Open fields and woodlots for upland game and deer
  
• Waterfowl hunting opportunities on the lake
  
• Clearly marked maps and access roads for ease of use
  

Top Private Preserves Near Reading

4. Martz’s Game Farm

Located in nearby Lenhartsville, Martz’s Game Farm is one of the most renowned upland bird hunting destinations in the region. Offering pheasant, chukar, and quail hunts, this family-run preserve is a favorite for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.

Key Features:

• Professional bird dog handlers available
  
• No Pennsylvania hunting license required for private hunts
  
• Ideal setting for youth hunts or corporate outings
  

5. Clover Hollow Hunting Preserve

Just under an hour from Reading, Clover Hollow offers guided big game hunts, including whitetail deer and exotic species on a high-fence preserve. It's an excellent option for those seeking a trophy-class hunt.

Key Features:

• Guided and semi-guided hunts available
  
• Lodging and on-site processing services
  
• Known for trophy-quality bucks and controlled environments
  

Game Species Abundant in the Reading Region

White-tailed Deer

Berks County is part of WMU 5C, which allows extended antlerless seasons and urban archery hunting in some zones. The dense woods and open fields near Reading offer fantastic cover and food sources.

Wild Turkey

The wooded ridges and creek bottoms of SGL 106 and 280 provide ideal turkey habitat. Spring season sees gobblers responding aggressively to calls, especially at sunrise.

Pheasant & Upland Birds

The Pennsylvania Game Commission regularly stocks pheasants in select State Game Lands near Reading. Private preserves like Martz’s offer consistent success for upland hunters with less physical demand.

Waterfowl

Blue Marsh Lake and nearby wetlands attract ducks and Canada geese during fall and winter migrations. Early morning hunts with layout blinds and decoys can yield excellent results.

Small Game

Reading’s outskirts and wooded patches support high numbers of gray squirrels, rabbits, and groundhogs, making it a great area for small game seasons and youth hunts.

Hunting Licenses and Requirements in Reading

All hunters in the area must follow Pennsylvania Game Commission regulations. The following licenses and permits are needed:

• General Hunting License for residents and non-residents
  
• Archery & Muzzleloader Permits (if applicable)
  
• Antlerless Deer Tags for WMU 5C
  
• Hunter Safety Certification for first-time license holders
  

Licenses can be purchased online or at most sporting goods stores throughout Berks County.

Hunting Seasons and Prime Times

 

Top Tips for Hunting in the Reading Area

• Scout public lands early: Get to know SGL 280 and 106 before the season opens for better stand placement.
  
• Use mobile apps: HuntStand and onX Hunt apps are useful for marking game trails and property boundaries.
  
• Blend with the terrain: Use natural cover and scent control due to high deer pressure in public lands.
  
• Apply for Blue Marsh permits early in the season to lock in your waterfowl or deer access.
  
• Target weekdays if possible to avoid the weekend rush on public lands.
  

Essential Hunting Gear Checklist

• Valid Pennsylvania license and necessary tags
  
• Blaze orange vest or hat (as required)
  
• Legal archery or firearm setup
  
• Scent control spray and scent-free boots
  
• Portable hunting seat or tree stand
  
• Rangefinder, binoculars, and knife
  
• Game bags or cooler for harvested animals
  
• Maps or GPS-enabled mobile app
  
• Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for secure firearm transport
  

Conclusion: Reading Offers Prime Hunting Access

From trophy whitetails in Berks County’s woodlots to guided pheasant hunts just minutes away, Reading stands out as one of the best hunting areas in Eastern Pennsylvania. Public lands like State Game Lands 280 and Blue Marsh Lake offer scenic and productive terrain, while private preserves provide a luxury experience for those seeking high-success opportunities. Whether you're in pursuit of your first buck or your next bird limit, Reading delivers variety, access, and a strong hunting culture worth exploring.