Top Hunting Places in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Located along the Susquehanna River and surrounded by the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, serves as a strategic base for some of the best hunting in Northeastern PA. Rich in public hunting lands, diverse wildlife populations, and easy access routes, Wilkes-Barre is more than just a historical coal town—it's a hunter’s haven.

From white-tailed deer and wild turkey to black bears, coyotes, and small game, the region provides hunters with a variety of opportunities across different seasons and terrain types. Whether you're looking for dense woodland hunting or open field visibility, this guide covers everything needed to ensure your next Wilkes-Barre hunting trip succeeds.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Wilkes-Barre

State Game Lands Number 91

Situated just 15 minutes north of Wilkes-Barre, SGL 91 is a prime destination with over 9,000 acres of forested terrain. This expansive area features mixed hardwoods, brushy thickets, and wetlands—ideal for deer, bear, and turkey.

• Top Game: White-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, coyote
  
• Features: Remote terrain, low pressure, accessible from Route 118 and Mountain Springs Rd
  
• Best Time to Hunt: Mid-October for archery deer and mid-November for bear season
  

State Game Lands Number 57

This massive area spans over 44,000 acres and lies west of Wilkes-Barre near Ricketts Glen State Park. With elevated ridges, logging roads, and dense thickets, it’s a popular spot for serious hunters who enjoy a backcountry feel.

• Ideal For: Late-season deer, bear, and turkey
  
• Terrain: Rugged, remote, with water sources and food plots
  
• Access Tips: Park along Stull Rd or Mullen Road; bring a GPS for deep treks
  

Lackawanna State Forest – Pinchot Trail Area

A short drive east from Wilkes-Barre, the Pinchot Trail System offers not only hiking and backpacking opportunities but also regulated hunting in designated zones. The mixture of hardwood forest and conifer stands makes it a suitable habitat for both small and large game.

• Hunting Zones: Northern and southern loops allow hunting; check maps for boundaries
  
• Best Game: Grouse, squirrel, turkey, occasional deer
  
• Additional Info: Camping available for extended hunting trips
  

Top Private Hunting Preserves Near Wilkes-Barre

Pocono Big Game Preserve

Approximately 45 minutes southeast of Wilkes-Barre, Pocono Big Game Preserve offers hunters access to whitetail, elk, and exotic game on private, fenced-in acreage. This is a great choice for those seeking guaranteed game encounters in a controlled environment.

• Offerings: Trophy deer, exotic rams, wild boar
  
• Services: Guided hunts, lodging, meat processing
  
• Booking: Reservations required with seasonal packages available
  

Blue Ridge Ranch

Located near Weatherly, Blue Ridge Ranch caters to upland bird hunters looking for pheasant and quail experiences with well-trained dogs and guided support.

• Bird Species: Pheasant, chukar, quail
  
• Environment: Open fields with managed habitat and cover
  
• Ideal For: Novice hunters and training dogs in a controlled setting
  

Most Popular Game Species in Wilkes-Barre

White-Tailed Deer

The forests and fields around Wilkes-Barre support a healthy deer population, especially during the archery and rifle seasons. With food plots, bedding thickets, and oak ridges, hunters can expect plenty of activity—especially near SGL 91 and 57.

• Tactics: Tree stands along ridge lines, funnels near water, early morning and dusk hunts
  
• Peak Activity: Rut season in early November
  

Black Bear

Northeastern PA has seen increased bear sightings in recent years, and hunters are reporting larger boars and increased activity during the fall season. SGL 57 is particularly noted for bear harvests.

• Hunting Method: Still hunting or coordinated drives with groups
  
• Season: Mid to late November
  

Wild Turkey

Both spring and fall turkey seasons are popular around Wilkes-Barre. Gobblers are commonly found near field edges and forest transition zones.

• Calling Tip: Use locator calls at dawn and remain patient; birds are heavily pressured here
  
• Best Locations: Hillsides in SGL 91 and early mornings near Ricketts Glen
  

Coyote and Fox

Predator hunting is growing in popularity in Luzerne County. Night hunts with calls and lights are legal with the appropriate licenses.

• Hotspots: Edges of farmland and game lands
  
• Tip: Use distress calls during winter when food is scarce
  

Small Game and Bird Hunting

Squirrel, rabbit, and grouse are abundant in early fall and late winter. Grouse hunting can be particularly rewarding in young forests and recently timbered areas of SGL 57 and the Pinchot Trail System.

• Best Time: October through December
  
• Firearms: .22 caliber for squirrel and rabbit, 12 or 20 gauge for grouse
  

Where to Buy Hunting Gear and Licenses

Hunters Gallery Outdoors – Wilkes-Barre Township

A trusted local outfitter carrying firearms, bows, tactical soft rifle cases, clothing, and reloading supplies. Their staff offers personal insight on nearby hunting conditions and game movement.

• Location: 750 Wilkes-Barre Township Blvd
  
• Services: Gun transfers, optics, archery tuning
  

PA Game Commission NE Regional Office – Dallas, PA

For licenses, regulation updates, and game harvest reporting, the regional Game Commission office is the go-to resource.

• Contact: (570) 675-1143
  
• Pro Tip: Always check WMU 3B and 4C for local regulation updates
  

Important Hunting Regulations

• Wilkes-Barre falls under Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 3B and 4C
  
• Licenses Required: General license, antlerless tag (lottery), bear license, turkey tag
  
• Sunday Hunting: Permitted only on specified Sundays; check annually
  
• Fluorescent Orange Requirements: Must wear 250 square inches of orange during firearms deer and bear seasons
  
• CWD and Disease Zones: Monitor Game Commission announcements for changes in baiting laws and carcass transport
  

Best Times of Year to Hunt in Wilkes-Barre

 

Why Wilkes-Barre Should Be on Every Hunter’s Map

Wilkes-Wilkes-Barre might not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of hunting in Pennsylvania, but it should be. With vast access to diverse game lands, strong populations of white-tailed deer and black bear, and proximity to some of the largest public hunting grounds in the state,it provides exceptional value for local and visiting hunters alike.

Whether you're venturing out alone with your bow or coordinating a rifle hunt with friends, Wilkes-Barre delivers quality opportunities in every season. From seasoned sportsmen to those just starting out, the area continues to attract more hunters year after year—and for good reason.