Ground Zero: South Carolina's Record Bucks

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Check out this video to learn how to manage your small track of land to bag your trophy buck.

 

ACCESS: JOCASSEE GORGES WMA

 

Charles Ruth said another good option for big deer is the rugged mountainous terrain of the Jocassee Gorges.

“In this public area the potential exists to see and kill some really big bucks, but the population dynamics are vastly different here than in the other upstate areas we’ve been discussing,” Ruth said. “This is true mountain hunting and the Jocassee Gorges consists of very rugged terrain. Plus, the deer density in general is low. Don’t hunt here expecting to see lots of deer. However, it is an area where when you encounter a buck, it could be a real trophy.

“Also, from my perspective, these woods are incredibly scenic and for hunters who enjoy the ‘big woods’ environment, this alone makes it worth the effort,” he said.

Ruth said in addition to all the typical planning and hunting strategy development required to hunt deer, hunters need to ensure they have a realistic plan to get a deer out of the steep terrain. Access with motorized vehicles in not available in many areas and these remote places can often be the best places to potentially find a big buck.

In addition to deer, the Jocassee Gorges represents most of the black bear habitat in the state and good populations of wild turkeys are also found on sections of the property.

Almost all of the Jocassee Gorge properties are in the SCDNR WMA Program and are available for public hunting. Traditionally, this area has been a favorite destination for hunters who consider the rugged, picturesque terrain an advantage rather than a hindrance. Hunters are required to have a WMA permit, and hunters should consult the S.C. Department of Natural Resources “Rules & Regulations” publication for specifics. Generally, deer season is open from October 1 into January, but check the 2018/19 regulations for any changes.

When hunting the Jocassee Gorges camping is a possibility. The state parks surrounding the Jocassee Gorges offer everything from pull-in RV sites for the weekend camper to rugged backcountry camping for the avid backpacker. Jones Gap, Oconee, Table Rock, Keowee-Toxaway, Devils Fork and Caesars Head state parks all offer camping at designated sites.

For information about a specific park’s camp sites and reservations, call 1-888-88-PARKS or visit the South Carolina State Parks Web Site. Surrounding national forest lands provide a wide range of camping opportunities, from developed campgrounds to primitive camping opportunities. To find out what’s available, call the Andrew Pickens Ranger District at (864) 638-9568.

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