Season Dates: Archery season runs from Sept. 15 to Dec. 31, plus a private lands only season that runs Jan. 2-31. Shotgun season is Nov. 14 to Dec. 4 – check regulations for breakouts. Muzzleloader season is Dec. 5-31.

The Grade: C+

The grade here doesn’t reflect the quality of deer hunting in Connecticut. On the contrary, the place is full of deer! But public hunting, while not nonexistent is on the short side. On the other hand, if you can get some access to private land (think archery gear for a better shot at getting on), Connecticut can be fabulous. Tags are not a problem – they're over the counter and ample. And while there aren't a ton of Boone and Crockett bucks coming out of the state, you do have a good chance at a Pope and Young buck with archery gear in this suburban hunting center.

Antler Nation Knowledge: Litchfield and Hartford Counties produced eight of Connecticut’s 12 typical Boone and Crockett record book bucks, so that should give you an idea of where to go for big boys. Connecticut has a good Wildlife Management Area system.