The Hunting sure has changed the last 10 years in Pa. I would not say it went to Hell though. When the PGC let the rifle hunters shoot Does during the 2 week buck season that was start of the change. They also put antler restrictions, 3pt and 4pt to a side state wide. The rifle hunters shot alot of does which the DCNR wants. From what I see the antler restrictions are working. You see some nice bucks coming from Pa in the last few years. I hunt the Big Woods of Pa [ Pike, Suskie,Tioga Co] where the deer are not that plentiful and the Southeast [ Bucks, Montco,Philly Co] where there is a deer behind every tree!!
The deer are still there in the Big Woods you just need to do you homework and scout some more. Down near my home in the southeast I have some nice farms to hunt and some spots on the Delaware river that are loaded with deer. I shoot 3 to 4 does a year and try to hold out for a nice buck, 8pt or better. I love deer meat. I think that 8pt rule will be out the window with the recurve in my hand
Pa is not as bad as the rep its been getting the last few years. Just hunt hard and it will payoff. Be Safe!!!
Hatchet Jack