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Allegheny River (Warren)
5100 CFS
Critical for riverbank woodcock and island rabbit access.
Data currently unavailable.
Pursuit Tactics: The Big Woods Four
Ruffed Grouse
Focus on 5-15 year old cuts where saplings are "thumb-thick." In the ANF, look for edges where grape tangles meet young aspen or birch. They depend on these high-stem density areas for protection from avian predators.
The ANF Squirrel Slam
The Allegheny National Forest is one of the few places in PA where you can realistically bag four species in one trip:
- Fox Squirrels: Heaviest of the four; found near edge-habitats and agricultural borders.
- Gray Squirrels: The high-ridge staple; focus on mature oak/hickory stands.
- Black Squirrels: A melanistic phase of the Gray; very common near the Reservoir and McKean line.
- Red Squirrels: The small, vocal "pine squirrel" found in hemlock and spruce thickets.
Stocked Pheasant
Target the switchgrass and secondary growth in SGL 143 and 29. These birds are pressured early; look for them in the "ugly" thickets where other hunters won't walk. A Pheasant Permit is mandatory.
Cottontail Rabbit
In Warren County, rabbits thrive in the multiflora rose and old orchard sites. Early morning or late evening is best. If hunting without dogs, slow down and kick every brush pile you find.
Local Hotspots & Access Points
SGL 143 (Pittsfield Area)
One of the most productive units for mixed-bag hunting. Parking: Access the northern stocking area via Spetz Hill Rd off Route 6 (approx. 3.5 miles west of Pittsfield). The southern interior is best accessed from Moore Lane off SR 27.
SGL 29 (Warren / Sheffield)
Known for big woods squirrel and grouse. Access: Start at the gate at the end of Forest Service Road 536 and hike north into the interior. The "Hermit Spring" area is a consistent producer for ridge-top gray squirrels.
Allegheny Reservoir Shoreline
For a unique challenge, use a boat to access the eastern shore campgrounds. These areas receive zero foot traffic from roads and are loaded with black and gray squirrels in the mature hardwoods.
Buzzard Swamp (ANF)
Located near the Forest/Elk county line. This is a premier spot for migratory woodcock in the fall. Focus on the damp, shrubby areas surrounding the main water bodies during the October flight.
New for 2026-27
Overlap Season: Hunt Squirrel, Rabbit, and Pheasant during the two-week Regular Firearms Deer Season.
Sunday Hunting: Nov 15, 22, and 29 are the designated 2026 Sundays for small game.