I have hunted in all of those states except texas. I am from alabama. I would say it is a number of things. Food, But my opinion , most Important is age. Poeple in those states take better care for their deer herds. The largest deer I have ever seen hunting was in kansas(monster) definate booner, the 2nd largest was here at home in Alabama 171"gross 250+ lbs Both were 5 or 6 years old. He is on the wall now....