Getting Started with Hunting Public Areas (WMAs) in Georgia

For many hunters in Georgia, especially those just starting out, the biggest challenge can be finding a place to hunt. With private hunting leases becoming increasingly hard to find, many turn to the state's incredible public lands—and for good reason. Georgia is home to 105 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), which offer diverse landscapes and fantastic hunting opportunities for those willing to put in the effort.

While some of the best hunting happens in the upper coastal plains and Piedmont areas, there are great opportunities all over these carefully managed zones. This guide will spotlight several excellent WMAs known for producing quality deer and providing a memorable hunting experience.

Get Out There and Hunt

If you're looking for public land you can truly experience the wilderness in, these two WMAs in east-central Georgia consistently stand out.

• Di-Lane WMA: This 8,100-acre property is classic quail country located in Georgia’s upper coastal plain. In the previous year, Di-Lane whitetail hunters posted the highest overall success rate in the entire state, which included the best success rate on mature bucks. The area is about 70 percent forested, with the rest made up of old fields that provide abundant cover and food for deer. Be aware of the season-long antler restriction here: bucks are required to have at least a 15-inch outside spread or four points on one side.
• Redlands WMA: Redlands WMA is a massive 37,500-acre area owned by the U.S. Forest Service, dominated by pine and hardwood forests.

• Dawson Forest: This WMA contains 25,500 acres of diverse terrain from mountains to gorges. 
• Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge: This 35,000-acre upland forest is considered prime deer country. Its forest of pine and hardwood, and deer love it.
• The Mountain Challenge: For hunters who want to earn a trophy the old-fashioned way, the rugged mountain WMAs in North Georgia offer a true test of skill and persistence. If you want to push yourself, consider a hunt at Cohutta, Swallow Creek, or Warwoman, where connecting with a mature buck is an achievement you are guaranteed to value personally.

Tips for Success on Georgia's Public Land

Consistent success on public land doesn't happen by accident. It requires strategy, effort, and the right gear.

1. Go Where Others Won't: The best strategy for hunting public lands is to find locations where other hunters are not likely to be. This process can start right now in the comfort of your home with e-scouting. Use mapping tools to look for terrain features and cover that deer may use as travel corridors away from main roads and entry points. A reliable GPS device can be your best friend in marking these spots and navigating to them in the dark.
2. Put in the Work: Harvesting big deer on public land requires you to put boots on the ground. Spend time in your chosen location to scout, look for deer sign, and consider potential stand locations before the season begins.
3. Be Patient and Persistent: It takes time to figure out the deer movement on a specific WMA. Plan to stick with an area for a couple of years; as you learn the terrain and the patterns, your chances of success will increase dramatically.
4. Always Check the Regulations: Before you head out, always check the latest season regulations and location-specific rules for the WMA you plan to hunt, as these are subject to change. 

Gear Up With Broken Arrow Outfitters

Georgia’s public lands offer a lifetime of adventure. Stop by Broken Arrow Outfitters to get the right apparel, footwear, and gear you need to hunt them with confidence!