The Northern Piedmont Region is a unique region in that it is composed of many urban areas. We spoke with John Rohm, who handles the urban wildlife management in the northern district of the region. Rohm told us that in his region, consisting of Prince William, Fairfax and Loudoun, he is focused on thinning the herd more than managing for large bucks. He has seen or heard of nice bucks being taken in Fairfax where the urban nature of the habitat allows the bucks to survive longer. Archers are able to focus on back yards and small wood lots to arrow some very respectable bucks. The key here is gaining permission to hunt on these properties.

Rohm also noted that the bucks tend to fare better in western Loudoun, where the terrain is more rural. Hunters may have better luck securing a place to hunt here as well. Loudoun always makes the top five in terms of deer herd density -- and buck population density, too.

Farther south in the region the habitat is more rural. Brian Moyer is the biologist in charge of this district. Moyer noted that there are a number of landowners practicing quality deer management and participating in the DMAP program. Much of this is self imposed but effective. Moyer commented that most of his district has quality buck prospects, but the land along the James and South Anna rivers in Hanover, Goochland and Powhatan is notable for producing nice bucks. The habitat there is a mix of farmland and oak/hickory wood lots.

Moyer also commented that Fort A.P. Hill is a good public land destination for hunters looking for a shot at a good buck. Although the post receives plenty of hunting pressure, it is known to produce some very nice, wide-racked bucks each season. There are areas of the post that are completely off-limits to hunters and provide a sanctuary for deer to grow many seasons without being shot at or seen. See the Web site or the regulation book for information on hunting Fort A.P. Hill.

With a good mast crop over much of the state and a mild winter, the deer herd came through in good shape. The trend shows more hunters are passing up the younger bucks and allowing them to grow at least one more season. Scout your areas before the season to find where the acorns are falling and then enjoy what looks to be a bountiful season.

Find more about Virginia fishing and hunting at: VirginiaGameandFish.com