The existence of a trophy whitetail is no accident. They possess superior genes. They are surrounded by bountiful nutrition. And their realm possesses several varieties of protective cover.
Limited access or private agricultural lands will allow a buck to achieve full body growth and possess a true trophy rack of antlers. And some of these whitetail habitats and hunting locations can be in surprising places.
How about the outer reaches of Long Island, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean?
A hunting region featuring 100-acre farm fields of potatoes and corn, surrounded by oak and pine woodlots. As it is with quality hunting grounds anywhere, landowner relations are essential. The October-December bow season makes this unique location an excellent place to find a truly mature trophy buck.
Richard Gates grew up hunting in the Long Island farm country. In 1982, he thought he would give bowhunting a try. His first deer came while still-hunting in some mountain...