QUESTION: I’ve been saving my pennies and finally decided this is the year I’m going on a guided hunt for trophy whitetails. I haven’t decided on the exact location yet but I’m thinking about somewhere in the midwest. Can you offer any tips on where my best chances might be? — C.J. W., Maryland
ANSWER: Based on national trophy book records, the top five trophy producing states are, in descending order: Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio and Kentucky. You should bear in mind that Illinois and Iowa are draw states and if you haven’t applied, it’s too late for this year. Licenses in the other three can be purchased over the counter. Buffalo County is tops in Wisconsin, and the nation.
Once considered a sleeper, the Bluegrass State has come on strong, largely on the strength of western counties. Meanwhile, the southern half of Ohio produces the most Buckeye big bucks. You might also consider: 1) Missouri, which has come on strong in recent years, 2) Kansas - a perennial producer, especially in the east, and 3) southern Indiana, which sits among several other top producing states.
I would strongly recommend you do some research on different outfitters, get references and talk to them. You should also get on this quickly as many of the best outfitters book up early. Good luck.