To get a hint of the possibilities, just look at the state forest statistics in three southwestern hotspots:

• Chautauqua County, with 15 forests totaling 17,199 acres,

• Allegany County, whose 23 forests total 45,829 acres, and

• Cattaraugus County, with 22 forests totaling 34,213 acres.

In addition, turkeys are thriving across the Appalachian Plateau, through the Finger Lakes and Catskill regions to the St. Lawrence and Hudson river valleys. So any statewide list of the best public hunting destinations will only scratch the surface.

In listing the following hunting areas across the state, selection was based on their location in regions of high turkey populations. Also, we selected large tracts of state land that probably can absorb more hunting pressure. And when possible, wildlife management areas were included because they're supported by hunting-license dollars and managed specifically for game.

Still looking for a place to open the season this May? Here's a top 10 list that won't steer you wrong:

CANADAWAY CREEK WMA
This Chautauqua County property, covering 2,180 acres, is managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation to maintain high-quality habitat for a variety of forest species through regulated timber harvesting and various other operations.

Some of the wildlife projects are aimed at ruffed grouse, although these also benefit turkeys, deer, small game and songbirds.

The landscape here is classified as a broad and deeply dissected upland plateau. That means the property consists mainly of steep slopes covered with deciduous trees interspersed with conifer plantations. Drainage is provided by Canadaway Creek, which runs through the property.

The WMA lies in the town of Arkwright about four miles northeast of the village of Cassadaga and six miles southeast of Fredonia.

There are two parcels, with the main tract bisected by county Route 72 and Center Road.