Hey folks—believe it or not, fall hunting season isn’t that far off. June may be all about BBQs, fishing, and mowing the lawn more often than you'd like, but if you're anything like me, the itch for crisp mornings afield starts creeping in around now.

If you're dreaming about heading out earlier than your home state allows, it might be time to plan an early season hunt out of state. Whether you want to chase velvet bucks, bugling bulls, or bag your first out-of-state tag, here are some of the best states that open the gates early—and make it worth your while.

🏹 1. Utah – Velvet Mule Deer Heaven

Utah kicks off archery season in mid-to-late August, and it’s one of the best spots in the West to chase high-country muleys still in velvet.
The Wasatch Front and southern Utah units get a lot of love, but don’t overlook the more rugged terrain up north if you’re willing to put in the boot miles. Just be warned—Utah’s draws can be tricky, so plan early or look into leftover or general season tags.

This is big country, so don't forget a spotting scope and a lightweight tripod.

🏞 2. Colorado – Early Elk Action

Colorado is the go-to for DIY elk hunters, and their archery elk season usually starts in late August. With over-the-counter (OTC) tags still available in many units, it’s one of the most accessible elk states around.
Want to hear bulls scream before your buddies even buy their license? This is the place. Just be prepared—public land gets pressure, but if you get off trail, there's room for solitude.

🌾 3. North Dakota – Whitetails & Mule Deer in Velvet

North Dakota opens early September for archery and is one of the few places where you can chase whitetail or mule deer still in velvet on the plains.
You’ll have plenty of options: ag land whitetails, badlands muleys, and minimal pressure compared to more "famous" states. The nonresident tags are lottery-based, so apply early.

🌲 4. Kentucky – Velvet Whitetail Goldmine

If you want a legit shot at a velvet whitetail buck, Kentucky is king. The archery season opens the first Saturday in September, and it’s been pumping out big velvet bucks for years.
Public land can be productive (check out the Peabody WMA or Land Between the Lakes), and nonresident licenses are pretty easy to grab.

Bring a good pair of bins for the woods.

🐗 5. South Carolina – August Whitetail & Hogs

Yep, South Carolina. This state has one of the earliest whitetail gun seasons in the entire country, opening as early as August 15 in certain zones (with rifle!).
It’s humid, it’s hot, and it ain’t for the faint of heart—but if you want to break the seal on the season before Labor Day, this is the spot. Bonus? You can smack some hogs too.

Follow Vanguard Pro Staffer Tarra Stoddard for plenty of SC hunting content.

✍️ Planning Tips

• Apply Early: Draw deadlines are often in spring, so if you're reading this late, check for OTC or leftover options.

• Scout Digital: OnX, GOHUNT, and HuntStand are your best friends for e-scouting before boots hit dirt.

• Train Now: If you're headed into high elevation or rugged terrain, don’t wait until August to start walking. Get in shape now.

• Check the Rules: Tag systems, weapon restrictions, and public access vary wildly—don’t assume.

👣 Final Thoughts

There’s something magic about getting a jump on the season—when most hunters are still grilling burgers, you could be glassing deer or listening to the first bugles of the year.
So pour yourself a cold drink, crack open your maps and tag apps, and get planning. Fall will be here before you know it.

Stay sharp and shoot straight.