Appalachian Timber and Eastern Brush Cats
Pennsylvania’s rugged terrain and extensive public land system make it a solid state for bobcat hunting, particularly for those willing to hike, scout, and hunt patiently. With dense hardwoods, thick brush, and rocky hillsides providing cover, bobcats have plenty of room to roam—and hide. Bobcats utilize various types of shelter including caves, tree-root cavities, brush piles, and burrows for protection and raising their young. For hunters, the challenge is finding them and using the right tactics to draw them into view.
Bobcats in Pennsylvania are secretive, territorial predators that stick to heavy cover and use thick cover and terrain to their advantage. Most encounters happen after significant preparation and careful setups. Public land adds a layer of accessibility but requires a strong game plan and attention to detail.
Where to Focus Your Search
Large tracts of state forest and game lands throughout Pennsylvania provide excellent bobcat habitat, especially in areas with good habitat. Look for areas with broken terrain—ridges, rocky outcroppings, and thick brush where small game is plentiful. Creek bottoms, clear-cuts, and benches along wooded slopes are also reliable spots. Bobcats are carnivorous generalists that hunt larger prey such as deer.
The northern and central parts of the state, particularly regions like the Allegheny National Forest, Tioga State Forest, and other game lands in the Ridge and Valley region, are known to hold bobcats. As a species in Pennsylvania, pay attention to sign like tracks in mud or snow, scat near game trails, or claw marks on downed logs. Bobcats also consume smaller prey like woodrats.
Calling on Eastern Ground
Electronic calls using distressed rabbit, woodpecker, or rodent sounds are effective in Pennsylvania’s dense woods. Setups should last longer than those for coyotes—bobcats often respond slowly and cautiously. Plan to stay in position for at least thirty to forty-five minutes per stand. Additionally, using traps and selecting appropriate locations can significantly enhance your chances of success.
Position yourself along natural funnels or terrain breaks. A slight rise overlooking a thicket or a trail junction between brushy draws gives you a visual edge. Using scents like urine can help attract bobcats to your setup. Use a visual decoy or motion lure to attract bobcats and help seal the deal if a cat comes close but doesn’t fully commit.
Tracking in Snow and Mud
Bobcat tracks are often visible in Pennsylvania’s winter conditions. After a light snow, look along old logging roads, ridge tops, and around swamps or clear-cuts. Cats often circle and use the same routes, especially near rabbit populations. Follow tracks slowly, glass frequently, and be ready for a close encounter.
Understanding bobcat territory is crucial for successful tracking.
In thicker cover, move quietly and take your time while walking. Bobcats may bed in brush piles or rocky shelves, and even a subtle sound can send them ghosting out of sight. If you’re confident a cat is nearby, try a short call sequence and wait.
Identifying spots where bobcats rest can improve tracking success.
Gear for Eastern Conditions
A light rifle in the .17 to .223 range works well for the varied terrain of Pennsylvania. For dense woods or close setups, a 12-gauge shotgun with a full choke and small shot can be effective. Additionally, using premium thermal optics for hunting in the dark can enhance your night-time hunting experience.
Layered clothing for cold weather, quiet boots that minimize foot noise, and full camo are essential. Bring a comfortable seat, electronic caller, hand warmers, and optics for scanning brush. Pennsylvania weather can change fast, so be prepared for snow, wind, or freezing rain.
Licenses and Regulations
Bobcat hunting in Pennsylvania requires a furtaker license, and hunters must apply for and receive a bobcat permit through a controlled drawing system. Bag limits and season dates are closely managed. The Pennsylvania Game Commission issues a limited number of permits for bobcat harvest. The season typically runs from late fall into mid-winter.
All harvested bobcats must be tagged and reported to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Review the most current rules before the season starts to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Controlling the bobcat population through regulated hunting and trapping allows the Pennsylvania Game Commission to monitor and maintain a stable bobcat population while minimizing disruption during breeding and reproduction periods.
Why Pennsylvania Is Worth the Effort
Public land hunting in Pennsylvania isn’t easy—but that’s part of the appeal. The terrain is demanding, the cover is thick, and bobcats rarely make mistakes. But with the right preparation and persistence, success is possible.
Hunting on both private land and large tracts of remote public forest adds to the adventure, offering varied terrains and unique challenges.
When you finally call one in or spot it slipping through the mountain laurel, it’s a hard-earned reward. And with so much public land available, there’s room to roam and explore new ground every season. Given the high interest in these hunting experiences, it's important to book early as they often sell out months in advance.
FAQs
When is bobcat season in Pennsylvania?
The season typically opens in mid-January and runs through mid-winter. Exact dates change yearly and should be confirmed through the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Permits must be obtained by the beginning of December to ensure participation in the hunting season.
Do I need a special permit?
Yes. A valid hunting license and furtaker license are required, along with a special permit for bobcat hunting, which is issued through a limited drawing. Trappers and hunters can apply for these permits. The number of permits available for bobcat hunting has expanded since the moratorium on hunting and trapping was lifted.
Where are the best public lands to hunt?
Allegheny National Forest, Tioga State Forest, and many state game lands in the north-central and northeastern parts of the state are known to hold bobcats. Bobcats prefer wooded areas and edges between different types of terrain, favoring environments with good cover and abundant prey. Selecting prime locations based on natural funnels and habitat types can significantly improve the chances of encountering bobcats during hunts or traps.
What’s the best call to use?
Distress sounds like cottontail, woodpecker, or rodent cries work well. Calls should be used for extended sessions since bobcats are slow to respond. During these hunts, hunters may also encounter other predators like foxes that are attracted to the calls. A variety of calls can be used to attract bobcats and other predators, enhancing the overall hunting experience.
Can I track bobcats in the snow?
Yes. Tracking is effective after fresh snow, especially when bobcats are hunting hares. Look for tracks along ridges, creek beds, and near clear-cuts or thick brush with prey sign. Bobcats also hunt hares and squirrels, which can be found in the same areas.