Prosecutors say David Manilla acted recklessly when he fired the high-powered rifle while driving an all-terrain on property he owned in Bucks County.
They say the bullet struck 52-year-old Barry Groh of Quakertown as he knelt by a stream after bagging a deer.
The 49-year-old Manilla, who lives in Worcester, Montgomery County, is charged with involuntary manslaughter. He also faces gun charges linked to a 1985 felony assault conviction that allegedly bans him from using firearms.
His trial date has been moved up a week.
Assistant District Attorney Robert James won't say if a plea is in the works.
Defense lawyer J. David Farrell did not immediately return a message.