Top Hunting Places in Rochester, New York

May 23, 2025

Rochester, New York may be known for its historical roots and cultural flair, but it also holds a powerful allure for outdoor enthusiasts—especially hunters seeking diverse game and well-managed lands. Whether you are after whitetail deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, or small game, the region offers unmatched opportunities across multiple seasons. Below, we present the most comprehensive guide to the top hunting places in Rochester, complete with public land access, hunting regulations, and insider insights into prime locations for success.

Genesee Valley Wildlife Management Area – A Prime Destination

The Genesee Valley Wildlife Management Area is among the top spots for hunting in the greater Rochester region. Spanning over 6,500 acres across Livingston and Wyoming counties, this vast, biologically rich region is a magnet for seasoned hunters.

Game Available: Whitetail deer, wild turkey, ring-necked pheasant, rabbits, coyotes, and waterfowl
Top Features: Open grasslands, wet meadows, dense brush and marshland
Access Tips: Enter via State Route 39 or nearby dirt roads—ideal for early morning hunters
Best Seasons: Early fall for deer, spring for turkey, and winter for coyote tracking

The WMA also includes designated parking areas and hunter access trails, making it easier for both foot hunters and those with tree stands or blinds.

Northern Montezuma Wildlife Management Area – A Waterfowler’s Paradise

Situated northeast of Rochester near Seneca Falls, Northern Montezuma WMA offers some of the most fertile wetland systems in the state. It spans over 8,000 acres and sits at the intersection of several migratory flyways.

Game Available: Ducks, geese, and other migratory birds
Hunting Style: Primarily waterfowl blinds and boat-in access during open season
Permits: Required for specific waterfowl blinds; regulated under state and federal guidelines
Habitat: Freshwater marshes, flooded timber, and cattail stands

Serious waterfowl hunters frequent Montezuma for its consistent bird movement and exceptional sunrise hunts. Bring your waders and decoys.

Rush Oak Openings Unique Area – A Hidden Gem

Located just south of the city, Rush Oak Openings is a smaller yet incredibly diverse location. It’s not as well known, which can be an advantage during crowded weekends.

Size: Roughly 200 acres
Game Available: Deer, turkey, squirrel, and upland birds
Access: Off Honeoye Falls Five Points Road
Special Note: Some terrain includes oak savannas and open brush zones ideal for stalking game

Because it’s lesser-known, this area is excellent for bowhunters and muzzleloader enthusiasts looking for quiet, low-traffic hunts.

Hemlock-Canadice State Forest – Rugged, Remote, and Rewarding

The Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, part of Rochester's protected watershed area, is a 6,684-acre forested landscape filled with hardwood ridges, deep valleys, and two pristine Finger Lakes. Hunting is permitted in designated zones.

Game Available: Deer, black bear (rare sightings), turkey, small game
Access Points: Multiple parking lots along Canadice Lake Road and Route 15A
Topography: Steep terrain—ideal for experienced hunters who enjoy a challenge
Best Time to Hunt: Rut season for whitetails in November; spring for gobblers

Because it’s rugged and remote, Hemlock-Canadice offers a true backcountry hunting experience only 30 minutes from downtown Rochester.

High Tor Wildlife Management Area – Finger Lakes Trophy Country

High Tor WMA lies about an hour south of Rochester but is a must-mention due to its top-tier deer and turkey hunting opportunities in the Finger Lakes region.

Total Area: Over 6,300 acres
Notable Game: Trophy bucks, turkey, raccoon, and fox
Features: Rolling hills, steep ravines, and hardwood forests
Insider Tip: Scan the valleys at first light; deer often travel along ridge spines

High Tor is often praised for its visibility and terrain diversity, making it a favorite for both rifle hunters and bowhunters seeking big game in scenic country.

Statewide Hunting Licenses and Regulations

Before you enter any of these lands, make sure you are compliant with New York State DEC hunting laws.

License Required: All hunters 12+ must have a valid NYS hunting license
Tags & Permits: Deer management permits (DMPs) and turkey tags must be secured prior to the season
Legal Hunting Hours: From sunrise to sunset, unless otherwise stated
Hunter Education: Completion of a certified hunter safety course is required to purchase a license

Visit the official New York Department of Environmental Conservation website to view up-to-date regulations.

Private Land Hunting Opportunities in Monroe County

While public lands provide ample access, private land hunting in and around Monroe County is highly coveted for trophy whitetails and less pressured game.

How to Access: Secure permission directly from landowners or lease rights for the season
Benefits: Reduced hunting pressure, trail cam data, pre-scouted zones
Areas to Target: East Bloomfield, Scottsville, and Mendon—known hotspots for deer activity

Landowners often prefer hunters who offer to help with land maintenance or provide references. Always leave gates as you found them and adhere to ethical hunting practices.

Gear Up: What to Bring for a Successful Hunt

The terrain and diversity of Rochester’s hunting zones require tailored gear depending on your quarry. Essentials include:

For Whitetail Deer: Tree stand, scent blockers, grunt calls, safety harness
For Waterfowl: Waders, decoys, 12-gauge shotgun, duck calls
For Turkey: Slate call, full camo (including gloves and face mask), decoy setup
General Gear: GPS or map, blaze orange for rifle season, first-aid kit, field dressing tools, tactical soft rifle cases for secure firearm transport

Whether you’re deep in the woods of Hemlock or crouched in a marsh blind at Montezuma, preparation is the foundation of success.

When to Hunt in Rochester: Season Breakdown

Knowing the right time to hunt ensures a more productive outing.

Whitetail Deer: Early bow season (October), peak rut season (mid-November), and muzzleloader (December)
Turkey: Spring gobbler season (May) and fall season (October)
Waterfowl: Split seasons—check the DEC annually for specific dates based on migratory surveys
Small Game: October through February

Each game species has specific peak times and behavioral patterns—understanding these can increase your chances of success.

Conclusion: Why Rochester is a Hunter’s Haven

From expansive wildlife areas and diverse habitats to seasonal richness and community respect for ethical hunting, Rochester, New York stands out as a premier destination for hunters in the Northeast. Whether you're looking to tag a mature buck or enjoy a sunrise duck hunt in the marsh, Rochester offers a perfect blend of wilderness and accessibility.

Pack your gear, scout the land, follow local laws—and you’ll find success in Rochester’s hunting grounds.