Not a resident of Kentucky, gonna go ahead and throw that out there. I have spent quite a bit of time hunting in Kentucky, mostly in the southwestern section. I am looking to buy a farm at some point in the next year or three to split time with my permanent residence when I semi-retire. Would appreciate any advice you guys can give me regarding a county/area that would fit my needs. Here are some of my thoughts on the perfect property: 1 - Obviously big deer, don't have to see 20 deer every sit but would like area with proven history. I know that a high percentage of big deer killed in Kentucky never get much press so you can't just go by what makes the hunting guide each year. 2 - Not too rugged but don't mind some hills. I am an admitted flatlander, and some of Kentucky is definitely tough sledding. I was surprised at how hilly even the western part of the state was in places when I first went. I have not seen the terrain in some areas so not sure what to expect. 3 - Geographic area - To keep the drive down to 7-8 hours, I would limit it to the central part of the state back to the east. I realize that area is more mountainous than the western part. North or south doesn't really matter. I know the eastern part of the state was hit with EHD a couple of years ago and not sure how they are recovering. 4 - Neighbors - Certainly would like an area with good people. Kentuckians that I have met are usually a little wary until they get to know you, particularly if you ain't from around here. But mostly good folks from what I have seen. Kind of reminds me of the area that I live when I was growing up but those times are gone. Anyhow, sorry for the long post and look forward to replies.
Your gonna get a lot of bitterness as an out of stater asking questions about buying land here IMO. I'll shoot you a few things to consider though. Unless you are around or have someone to watch your land it may be a huge PITA to try and manage that far away. Check out your neighbors and potential issues first. Next, there are big deer everywhere in the state and again a lot will depend on your neighbors. They gotta get some age on em before they get shot to be trophy caliber. Way too many variables to consider based off what you stated. If I were looking for an out of state piece I would start with a list of my priorities in order and start piecing something together. The last part of that puzzle would be finding the specific piece of land.
Neighbors are the key ...... being out of state, you'll need to rely on your neighbors. If they are trash, you're doomed. As for terrain, central KY has hills......eastern KY has mountains. Sounds like you need to move far enough west to find the hills.
I understand and that is why I made that statement first, because I wanted to be honest about it. I certainly appreciate your comments.
Whitetail properties is a good place to look. Dave skinner was on here I don’t think he checks in as often as he used to though.
I would suggest the area between florence ky and Louisville. Below gallatin county and above Louisville off 71, loaded with deer.
Ky is still a great place to buy for hunting and investment. As a resident and outdoorsman I welcome all, but the quicker you buy the better deal your gonna get IMO, land goes up and gets harder to find every year
I really don't need any new neighbors. Lol. If you're looking in this area you better have full pockets as the Amish have driven prices to the sky and that statement should tell ya who your neighbors are likely to be.
"Them damn Aimish came in and bought it right from under my nose. I'd been negotiating with the owner fer years.." That seems to be the story here anyways.