Kentucky may be mostly known for horse racing and tourism, but it also makes for one of the best hunting areas in the region. Hunters can not only roam in the beautiful forests but also roll in the open fields. There are also outstanding, lush mountains in the vicinity, but more on that later.
Hunters, whether professional or amateurs, love to indulge in the sport. Most of them constantly look for newer and better lands to hunt, and Kentucky is a great place for that.
In this article, you will find different hunting guides. We have thoroughly reviewed all the services provided by the guides, as well as the reasons why each guide stands out. You can compare these against one another to see which one is the best one.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for KY Hunting Guides
- MOST POPULAR: James - Turkey Hunt
- BEST VALUE: James - $300 Coyote Hunt 3 day / night
- BEST KENTUCKY DEER HUNTING GUIDE: Mark - Muzzleloader Early Deer Hunt
Comparison of the Best Kentucky Hunting Guides
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Why Kentucky is Such a Great Place to Hunt
Kentucky is one of the most attractive states in all of the USA, and it is due to this reason that it is home to a great many hunting lands. But when it comes to hunting, animals are not only the most attractive things. Here are some other things that make Kentucky such a great place for hunts.
Diversity
This is one of the most notable features of Kentucky. Unlike other things, birds and turkeys are not the only animals at your disposal. You can also hunt animals like ducks, doves, geese, and many sandhill cranes. There are also ample species of birds, each offering a different taste and sight. If that's not to your liking, there are things like squirrels, grouse, rabbits, and goose.
Lush Greenery
Greenery is one of the most attractive things that any park can offer, and Kentucky parks take the lead in this feature. There are many different trees and flowers located all around. This not only makes for a great view but also ensures that you feel good while hunting. Moreover, beautiful mountains in the vicinity also compel hunters to visit the state.
Privacy
No hunter wants to be disturbed while they indulge in this amazing sport. And that is one thing the land ensures. The lands aren't home to many people, which means that you won't see many people roaming around. Moreover, on hunting lands, you will have access to separate compartments, and you won't have to talk or spend time with any strangers unnecessarily.
Review of the Best Kentucky Hunting Guides
All the above reasons hint at the great hunting state that is Kentucky. But with so many options available in the market, it can be really hard to choose one package that you like best. Here are the various options for you in detail to help you determine which one suits you best.
Most Popular:
James - Turkey Hunt
What the Hunt Includes
James is undoubtedly one of the best turkey hunts in all of Kentucky. The price of the hunt includes things like proper accommodation that provides all the latest amenities. Not just that, you will also get a separate cabin to keep all your hunting equipment safely. There is also a motel that you get access to.
The distance between the motel and the hotel is only 20 minutes, which means you won't have to cook food yourself. The cabin is spacious and has ample space for you to relax in. There are also things like gas lights, gas cookstoves, and hot running water at your disposal. As for payment, you will have to pay the full price five days before the booking deadline.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This short, yet efficient trip is one to dream off. It includes three days and three nights, and you can enjoy all the rights offered by the management. The area is fully wooded, which is another reason it stands out.
But the reason most people love this hunting service the most is the privacy the land offers. Only you and your family will be staying on the land. You will also be given access to a proper map that covers everything from landmarks to famous hunting spots.
You can also bring a four-wheeler here. This comes in handy when you catch a large deer and need to carry it back to your property. So, if you are looking for a peaceful land to catch all your favorite prey, then this is the place to be.
Best Value:
James - Coyote Hunt 3 day/night
What the Hunt Includes
If you are looking for the best value hunting extravaganza, then you have certainly come to the right place. This superior package provides you with hunting land for up to three days. You can also access it for a single day and pay relatively less money.
Among the things included in the package is a luxurious accommodation cabin. This provides access to gas stoves, running water, and a safe space to spend the night. Moreover, you will get a separate cabin to keep your expensive equipment.
There is also a ladder stand and three elevated box blinds. The elevation equipment is only provided to deer hunters. Moreover, maps of the area are also provided, and you may also find hunting guides to help you better navigate the way.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you schedule your hunt with this company, you will be in a treat of a lifetime. The best seasons to avail of this wonderful offer are from January to March. The weather is really nice in these months, which ensures you don't get too tired while hunting.
Moreover, people don't want to hunt weak and meek animals, which is why the place has plenty of crops so that the turkeys on the ground can have ample food to enjoy. There are more than four auto corn feeders that run all year round to assist in this job.
The turkeys are smart and will hence always come to your decoy. All this makes it very easy for you to catch your prey. But what is most amazing about this whole package is the high affordability. You will get access to a very cheap package, along with many accessories all at your disposal.
3. James - Early "Bird" Deer Rifle Special
What the Hunt Includes
Once you enter these great hunting lands, you won’t have to worry about anything else. You will get superior services, all at a relatively affordable price. Unlike other services, you won’t be asked to pay any hidden fees for the services. Almost all the birds you find are pretty large and will satisfy the hunter within you.
Moreover, if you shoot a buck that is smaller than 125 inches, you will be asked to pay a fine of $200. But the chances of that happening are rather scarce because there aren’t many birds that size. Licensing rates are different for different people, but rest assured that if you have a license, no will stop you from hunting any birds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We find this to be one of the longest and most extended rifle hunt services in the land. It includes more than 12 to 14 food plots. This makes for more than enough land to hunt as many birds as you want. There are also more than four auto corn feeders that act as a perfect decoy. You will see ample birds and turkey moving around so you can hunt in peace.
The whole area is wooded, which means that you can walk without getting tired. In the cabin, you will find a good amount of bunk beds to assist you and your family. There is also a separate couch that you can sit comfortably on. One of your kids can also use this couch to sleep on. A deer cart is also provided so you can carry your deer at any time to and from your property.
Best Kentucky Deer Hunting Guide:
Mark - Muzzleloader Early Deer Hunt
What the Hunt Includes
Most packages only offer good accommodation, but that’s not the only thing hunters are looking for. People want to get both comfort and peace after a long day of strenuous hunting. This is why this Kentucky hunting guide is one of the best ones in the market. You will get access to all areas through the transport service provided by the management.
There is also an excellent guide that will inform you regarding all the top spots of hunts. There is also access to field and regular trophies all year round. But what’s really special is that you won’t have to cook your own food. You will get free breakfast, lunch, and dinner specially made and delivered to you.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This hunt goes on for two days and three nights, and the package includes all lodging facilities as well as access to many wonderful meals. The hunts are divided into two seasons. This is to ensure that a good amount of turkey and birds are always available for you to hunt.
But what’s really special about it is the permission to hunt with large rifles. You won’t need a special muzzleloader to catch your prey. Hunters can hunt all the scouted areas to see the most recent buck signs.
The inclusion of trail cameras also helps in the search. These hunted areas will also include freshly harvested soybean fields. The hidden food plots and many oak bottoms will ensure you get the best birds. So if you don’t want to waste your time cooking and preparing meals, then you are in for a treat.
5. James - TROPHY RIFLE HUNT 4 days/nights
What the Hunt Includes
This hunt has seen numerous excellent reviews from recent travelers. It garnered huge popularity because of its easy and accessible locations. You get good accommodation that houses both you and your family. You won't need a four-wheeler because the hunting locations are pretty close to the cabin.
However, if you need a wheeler, you can get one from the management free of cost. There are also more than four auto feeders that run all year round to feed the large birds. This ensures that the prey you catch ends up satisfying your needs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you access this hunting guide in the summers or early winters, you will have the experience of a lifetime. The place is not only very large and spacious, but the inclusion of comfortable resting spots makes your stay very convenient.
Moreover, when you enter these grounds, you will see a number of bucks running everywhere. This is a true sight to behold as it will encourage you to gear up for an exciting hunt.
What’s really special about this package is that it allows you to hunt in tower blinds and ladder stands. This not only gives you a better camouflage, but it also increases your chances of turkey hunting.
Best Kentucky Turkey Hunting:
2 Day Youth Turkey Hunt
What the Hunt Includes
The two-day youth turkey hunt is the best chance for you to enter this wonderful sport. Since hunting is not only about the weapons, it should also include things like a comfortable accommodation and access to a wonderful transport service. You will get wonderful guides that will help you navigate through all the parks. But more importantly, you will get a fully prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Moreover, there are delicious snacks available. Also, monotony is not something you have to worry about. You will get different meals prepared at all times. Professional cooks do this so you won't have to worry about things like taste and food presentation.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This all-inclusive hunting and lodging package is a great one in Kentucky and is formed by a group of three people. All of them are extremely professional, and their dedication can be seen in the fact the whole hunt is designed to cater to the needs of individual hunters, and everyone’s privacy is prioritized to the utmost degree.
The company offers top-of-the-line Whitehall deer and turkey change in all the seasons. There are more than 2800 acres of land for deer hunting and 3000 acres of land for turkey hunting. The lodge has been newly renewed to help you pass your time comfortably. So if you want things like greater privacy and comfortable lodging, then this is the place to be.
7. Mark - December Muzzleloader Deer Hunt
What the Hunt Includes
Affordability and diversity come together to make this one of the best hunting guides in the market right now. Unlike other hunts, you won’t get access to turkey and deer only, but you will also be able to hunt some very unique and delicious birds at your disposal. Professionals do the guiding so you can rest assured of getting the best knowledge possible.
Moreover, the price includes field trophy preparation and access to many trophies. There is also a deer cart available that can be used to carry the deer from one place to another.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This hunt lasts for three days and four nights in total. In all this time, you will have full access to lodging and guiding facilities. There is also a full kitchen on display for you. You can bring your favorite items, cook them, and eat them with the deer or turkey that you catch each day.
There are also many restaurants close by so you won't have to worry about breakfast and lunch. You can also make use of the many large muzzle holders from previously used stands.
Hunters can roam around the full property without fearing their privacy. But what's really special about this hunt is the presence of many shooting houses. You can hide in them comfortably while you watch your prey reaching your bait. For this hunt, you will be allowed to harvest 140 Boone and Crockett inches and one large buck.
8. Mark - Archery & Muzzleloader Deer Combo
What the Hunt Includes
If there is one thing this archery and hunting guide is mostly known for, it is definitely the hospitality it ensures. Unlike many other guides, Mark doesn't leave you unattended. The guide does its best to provide you with all the amenities needed to enhance your stay at the Kentucky hunting park.
You will also be provided with things like a gas stove, warm running water, and bunk beds. You can choose to stay inside with your friends or family or use the many different hunting houses around the area. Moreover, the space is really large, so you will enjoy roaming around.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Most applicants of this guide were really happy to know that the hunt included more than four days and five nights. But there is another surprise. Unlike many other options in the market, you won’t have to cook your own food at any time. The package covers both lodgings and meal costs. These are specially prepared to assist your stay here.
Moreover, the lands offered in the package are really large. This not only gives you enough space to find all your favorite birds but also allows you to enjoy your hunt thoroughly. Hunters are also expected to shoot with the help of lock-on stands available in the vicinity. So, if you want a relatively longer hunting guide, there is no better option available.
9. Mark - Rifle Rut Deer Hunt (Nov. 27-29)
What the Hunt Includes
If you want to shoot at large and mature bucks but also enjoy a lush green environment in the surrounding, then there is no better place to do that than here. You can have a good time without missing home with a very comfortable lodging cabin and full access to transport services.
Moreover, with so much going on, you probably won't have much time to prepare your own meals. This is why the management has included breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks in the cost. You will also get fresh juices and beverages at all times.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you want to meet and interact with like-minded and passionate folks interested in hunting Whitehall deer, you are certainly in the right place. This five-night hunt is open to you in the peak of the breeding season. This means that you will have many large-sized and mature bucks at your disposal.
Since Kentucky is one of the only states to allow large rifles to be used on the ground, you will also find it quite exciting to shoot large bucks. There are ladder stands placed all over the vicinity to assist you in hunting.
10. Mark - Archery Pre-Rut Deer Hunt
What the Hunt Includes
Most hunts offer you good accommodation, but there is usually no assistance when it comes to transportation services. This becomes a problem when you spend a full day catching your prey and then have to move a long distance to your cabin. This hunting guide offers a very comfortable transporting service.
Moreover, while staying here for five days, you won’t have to worry about meal preparation. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided to you.
Great attention is also placed on your safety. The management ensures that you and all your equipment are well taken off. Not just that, but you are also provided with beverages to keep you hydrated after the strenuous exercise.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is probably one of the longest hunting guides available in this review, and this extended time comes with good reasons. There are ample opportunities and activities to discover. This makes even a six night-long-stay seem less. This pre-rut hunt is also in the last few weeks of the season hence making it one of the best times to tag a trophy.
During this time, all the bucks also become really active, and to chase them and shoot them becomes a true treat. Our guides are also great at finding the hottest sign on the farms that signal at the buck's maturation. So if you are a professional who doesn't mind staying for a week or so at these cabins, then go for this hunting guide.
Final Thoughts Bsefore Hunting in Kentucky
Equipped with lush mountains, solid greenery, and pleasant weather, Kentucky is a land with much beauty. There is something for everybody's liking, which is one of the many reasons tourists rush to the state for a weekend or so.
Choosing a good hunting guide will take some time, but you won’t have to waste precious moments on extensive research. We have highlighted the top features of some of the best hunting guides for you. All you need to do is find the one to your liking.
We understand that one size doesn't fit all. Similarly, no matter how great is one guide, everyone won't love it. This is why there is a range of options available for you in Kentucky. So gear up and take your best rifles and muzzleloaders there because you are in for a wonderful treat.
People Also Ask
When it comes to hunting, people don’t want to take any chances. This is one reason why you will see both professionals and amateur hunters sharing numerous queries online. To help these enthusiastic individuals, we have compiled a list of the most asked questions. Each of these has been honestly answered to help you make an informed decision.
Do I Need a Hunting License to Hunt on my Own Land in Kentucky?
If you are a permanent resident of Kentucky, then you won’t need any license to hunt at your own property or land. But the same laws don't apply to your guests. People except for your wife and your dependent children will need either a statewide deer permit or a proper license to harvest a deer.
How Many Deer Can You Kill in Kentucky?
The number differs from area to area, depending on your license and permit. But on average, a hunter can hunt a maximum of four deer at a single time. This means that you are allowed a maximum of one antlered and three antlerless deer. If you have a youth deer permit, you can also take up to four antlerless deer at any time.
Is it Legal to Kill Albino Deer in Kentucky?
It is not illegal to kill Albino Deer in Kentucky; however, the state advises that people take caution while hunting these. This is because these are rare in the state, and hence the concerned departments don’t want Albino deer to be extinct. Moreover, since these are rare to find, you won’t see many such animals roaming around.
Can You Hunt on Sunday in KY?
Like with most days, hunting is also allowed on Sundays. The reason many people don't prefer this or are hesitant to indulge in hunting on Sundays is because of privacy reasons. Since Sundays are usually busy and you see a lot of people in parks, you aren't likely to indulge in hunting these days.
Can You Hunt With an AR-15 in Kentucky?
An AR is often available in a multitude of calibers in Kentucky. If you have a permit that allows you to hunt in the state, you can hunt with different rifles and handguns. You can use large rifles, or you can shoot with a muzzleloader.
Can You Carry a Pistol While Bow Hunting in Kentucky?
Kentucky has a deadly weapon law, which is different from gun laws in many other states. Under this law, you are required to conceal any deadly weapon that you have. This means that strangers or people other than your family should not see the weapon. The only time you can take it out is when you are indulging in the sport on private property.
Is it Legal to Kill Albino Deer in Kentucky?
It is not illegal to kill Albino Deer in Kentucky; however, the state advises that people take caution while hunting these. This is because these are rare in the state, and hence the concerned departments don’t want Albino deer to be extinct. Moreover, since these are rare to find, you won’t see many such animals roaming around.
How Much Does a Deer Tag Cost in Kentucky?
A deer tag cost, in other words, is known as a permit to hunt and harvest a deer. The costs vary according to different permits. A statewide deer permit that allows you to hunt four deer cost $35 for residents and $185 for non-residents. Moreover, the youth deer permits can be brought for $10 if you are a resident and $15 for non-residents. If you want an additional permit for two deer, then you need to pay $15 for both resident and non-resident categories.
How Many Deer Can a Non-Resident Kill in Kentucky?
This depends on the kind of permit that you have. If you have a proper permit, then you may kill up to four deer without any repercussions. However, for people possessing a youth permit, you can only kill two deer. Lastly, if you buy an additional deer permit, then the limit is six in total.
Does Kentucky Have a Lifetime Hunting License?
Lifetime hunting licenses were once offered in many states, but over the years, they have had to face significant problems because of that. This is why Kentucky doesn't offer a lifetime license. Instead, you will have to purchase a different permit every year or every five years.
How Much is a Lifetime Fishing License in Kentucky?
A fishing license is relatively less expensive than a deer license. There are four categories available. If you buy a joint/spouse permit, then you will have to pay $42 for residents. For non-residents, such a permit is not available. A one-day fishing permit will be $7 for residents and $15 for non-residents. A three-year fishing license is $55, while seven-day fishing is available for non-residents for $35.
How Much is the Fine For Fishing Without a License in Kentucky?
Fishing in Kentucky requires a proper license, and people who don't obey fishing laws are heavily fined. The cost of such an incursion is $1000. You might also be sentenced to jail for a whole year if you are convicted of the crime.
