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Hunting in Arizona

When it comes to hunting, Arizona offers a truly unique experience. From the wide open deserts of the south to the cool mountain forests of the north, this state is teeming with a variety of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Whether you‘re interested in pursuing mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, javelina, bighorn sheep, bear, or turkey, Arizona has something for everyone.

With its diverse landscapes and climates, hunters can expect an unforgettable time out on the trails. Though the rules and regulations governing hunting in Arizona may seem intimidating at first glance, with some research and preparation you can be sure to have an enjoyable and successful time out in nature. So if you‘re looking for your next outdoor adventure and are ready to explore all that Arizona has to offer grab your gear and get hunting.

In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about hunting in Arizona. We will go over what types of animals you can hunt, their respective seasons, where to hunt, hunting license information, and much more.

Hunting in Arizona

What Can You Hunt in Arizona?

Hunting in Arizona is a popular pastime. From majestic elk and deer to the smaller game like cottontail rabbits, there’s something for everyone. Depending on the species, you may need a license or be able to hunt without one. Bigger animals such as black bears, bighorn sheep, bison, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey require special permits. Quail and migratory birds are also great targets of opportunity – just don’t forget your shotgun!

White-tailed Deer

Arizona is a great place to hunt for Coues White-tailed deer, the smallest species of deer in North America. Here, both residents and nonresidents alike can take advantage of this amazing privilege with regulations set by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD). AGFD imposes limits on season lengths, bag limits, and what type of firearms or archery equipment may be used while hunting – all based on how many bucks are harvested from each area.

In addition to licenses and permits required by AGFD, hunters should also do their research before heading out into the wilderness – public land hunts; private land hunts; managed hunts with limited access; there are lots of options! However, it’s important to always ask landowners permission before entering any private property for hunting activities.

Deer Season in Arizona

General Deer Season in Arizona

Unit Area Dates Deer Type
1, 3A, 3C, 4A, 4B, 10, 12A East, 12A West, 12B, 16A, 17A, 17B, 18A, 18B, 19A, 19B, 20A 27 Oct – 05 Nov Antlered deer
2A, 2B, 2C, 5A, 5B, 7, 9 03 Nov – 12 Nov Antlered deer
3A, 3C, 5A, 5B, 10, 23, 27, 6A, 6B, 8, 21,22, 23, 24A, 24B, 27, 28, 29, 30A, 30B 15 Dec – 31 Dec Mule Deer
31, 32, 33, 34A, 34B, 35A, 35B, 36A, 36B, 36C 15 Dec – 31 Dec Mule Deer
6B, 20B, 6A, 21, 22, 23, 24A, 24B, 29, 30A, 30B, 31, 32 33, 34A, 35A, 35B, 35C36A, 36B, 36C 10 Nov – 16 Nov Whitetail Deer
12A East, 12A West, 12B, 12B West, 18B, 42 24 Nov – 03 Dec Whitetail Deer
13B, 39, 41, 42, 43A, 43B, 44A, 44B 10 Nov – 19 Nov Antlered deer
45A, 45B, 46A, 46B, 45C 10 Nov – 19 Nov Antlered deer
6A, 21, 22, 23, 24A, 24B, 27, 28, 29, 30A, 31, 30B, 32, 33, 34B, 35A, 35B, 36A, 36B, 36C 27 Oct – 02 Nov Whitetail Deer
20C 17 Nov – 23 Nov Antlered deer
28, 29, 30A, 30B, 31, 32, 34B, 36A, 36B, 36C, 37A, 37B 17 Nov – 23 Nov Mule Deer
24A, 24B, 29, 30A, 30B, 31, 32, 33, 34A, 34B, 35A, 35B, 36A, 36B, 36C 01 Dec – 10 Dec Whitetail Deer
13A 17 Nov – 26 Nov Antlered deer
24A, 24B, 35A (Fort Huachua) 17 Nov – 26 Nov Mule Deer

Javelina

Hunting javelinas in Arizona can be an exciting and rewarding challenge. Also known as collared peccaries, these animals are native to the deserts of Arizona and usually travel in packs. Because they’re flighty creatures, it’s essential for hunters to understand their behavior to have a successful hunt.

Before heading out on a javelina hunting trip, it is important for everyone involved must meet the necessary requirements set by state regulations – this includes completing hunter safety courses or having valid hunting licenses from any state prior to going out. Additionally, size restrictions vary based on location; thus all hunters should take care not to harvest any javelina smaller than 18 inches at the shoulder before taking aim.

Javelina Hunting Season in Arizona

General Youth Only

Unit Area Dates
10, 19A, 17B, 19B, 20A 06 Oct – 15 Oct
16A, 18B 24 Nov – 03 Dec
20B, 34A, 34B, 35A, 35B, 37A, 37B 13 Oct – 19 Oct
33, 28, 29, 31, 32, 30A, 30B34A, 34B, 35B, 35A, 37A, 37B 24 Nov – 30 Nov

Bear

Hunting bears in Arizona is an adventure that can bring great rewards. Through the Arizona Game and Fish Department, you have access to two types of hunts – trophy hunting for black bears and general season grizzly bear hunts. Before planning your hunt, make sure to check with AGFD for updated regulations, which may vary between game management units (GMUs).

To ensure a safe bear hunt, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times; these animals are wild after all. It’s also essential to take necessary precautions when using firearms or archery equipment during a hunt. By taking proper safety measures and adhering to state regulations, your next bear hunting trip will be one you won’t soon forget.

 

Hunting Bears in Arizona

Bear Season in Arizona

Unit Area Dates
1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3B, 4B, 6B 11 Aug – 24 Aug
1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18A 06 Oct – 31 Dec
19B, 16A, 17A, 17B, 20A, 18B, 20B, 20C, 19A, 21 06 Oct – 31 Dec
22 South, 24A, 24B, 28, 31, 32, 33, 30B 06 Oct – 31 Dec
23 South, 23 Noth, 27 03 Nov – 31 Dec
27 06 Oct – 02 Nov
6A, 17A, 17B, 20B, 20C, 20A, 18B, 22 South, 23 South, 24A 25 Aug – 14 Sep
29, 30A, 3C, 4A, 5A 10 Nov – 31 Dec

Mountain Lion

Hunting mountain lions in Arizona is an exciting activity for adventurous hunters. The Grand Canyon State boasts plenty of these majestic cats, and they can be found prowling around its mountainous regions. To hunt responsibly, it’s essential to understand the regulations regarding seasons and bag limits before heading out into the wilds.

Mountain lion hunting requires specialized equipment as these animals are powerful hunters that cover large areas. Binoculars are a must-have tool for sighting a lion before it spots you; likewise, having a reliable rifle with effective ammunition plus a knife or other weapon for self-defense is also an important consideration when preparing gear for your hunt.

Lastly, wearing blaze orange clothing due to the open season on deer and elk during certain times of year provides additional safety measures when exploring the wildernesses of Arizona and searching after mountain lions.

Arizona Mountain Lion Season

Unit Area Dates
General Season Statewide (11M, 25M, 26M, 38M) 25 Aug – 31 May
11M, 25M, 26M, 38M (Archery) 25 Aug – 31 May
11M, 25M, 26M, 38M (Pursuit) 25 Aug – 31 May

Bison

Hunting bison in Arizona is an exciting and unforgettable experience. The desert landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for the hunt of these impressive animals, which can weigh anywhere between 500 and 2,000 lbs. It takes skill and special equipment to successfully capture one of these powerful beasts, but it’s worth it. Not only will you have a thrilling adventure, but you’ll also be helping keep their population healthy in Arizona.

When hunting bison, it’s important to always stay alert – they are strong creatures who can become aggressive quickly if provoked. Make sure your gun or bow is ready at all times and scout the area beforehand so that you know where food and water sources are located; this way the animal remains within your hunting grounds. With patience and caution, hunting bison offers a unique opportunity to enjoy nature while contributing to its conservation.

Bison Season Arizona

Unit Area Dates
9, 10 01 Oct – 31 Dec
12A, 12B, 13A, 13B North, 15B West, 15C North, 15C West, 16A, 15D 01 Dec – 31 Dec
16A South, 22, 24B South, 24B North, 31, 32, 39, 37B, 40A, 42, 44A, 44B, 46A West, 46A East 01 Dec – 31 Dec
12B East, 37A 24 Nov- 14 Dec
15A, 15B East 01 Nov – 31 Dec
28, 40B, 43B, 41 West, 45A, 45C, 46B East 17 Nov – 07 Dec
12B East, 28, 37A, 40B, 41 West, 45C, 45A, 45B, 46B West, 43B, 46B East 08 Dec – 31 Dec
12B East, 37A 10 Nov – 30 Nov

Turkey

Hunting turkey in Arizona is an experience like no other. With a wide variety of terrain and climates, hunters can find the perfect spot to hunt these wild birds. Springtime is the best time to go hunting for turkeys as they are most prevalent during this season.

In addition to following all state regulations, it is very important that hunters understand how to properly identify and approach turkeys during their hunt.

Turkeys can be found on open fields or near streams and rivers, but they will often move around depending on the season. It is important for hunters to practice proper turkey calling techniques in order to attract them close enough for a successful shot.

Hunting Turkeys in Arizona

 

Turkey Season

Limited to Shotgun

Unit Area Dates
Area 1 28 Apr – 04 May, 12 May – 25 May
3B, 3C, 4A, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 4B, 10, 12A, 13A, 13B South, 17A, 17B 05 May – 25 May
27, 7, 8, 18B, 19A, 20A, 21, 22, 23, 24A 05 May – 25 May
31, 32 05 May – 11 May, 19 May – 01 Jun
29, 30A 05 May – 11 May, 19 May – 01 Jun
31, 32 12 May – 01 Jun
33 28 Apr – 01 Jun
13B North 28 Apr – 04 May, 12 May – 25 May, 05 May – 25 May

Limited to Shotgun (Youth Only)

Unit Area Dates
3C, 23 21 Apr – 27 Apr, 12 May – 25 May
6A, 6B 21 Apr – 27 Apr, 12 May – 25 May

Rabbit

Arizona is home to many different species of rabbits that you can hunt and enjoy. From cottontails which are abundant throughout most parts of the state year-round with 10 as the daily bag limit, to two types of jackrabbits – black-tailed and antelope – found mostly in high/low desert areas or southeastern Arizona respectively.

Not only do these little critters make for great hunting targets but they also offer a plethora of skillsets for young hunters such as game preparation techniques. Moreover, their sweet meat provides some unforgettable flavorsome experiences.

Rabbit Season in Arizona

Unit Area Dates
 Statewide Open areas 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge 13 Oct – 11 Feb
Imperial National Wildlife Refuges 01 Sep – 11 Feb
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Squirrel

Hunting Squirrels is a great way to spend time outdoors, and with the right knowledge, you can increase your chances of success. Two types of squirrels are found in Arizona: Kaibab and Abert’s.

The best times for hunting squirrels are early in the morning or late evening when these critters are actively searching for food. During peak hours of heat, they will likely retreat to their nests so be mindful of this when planning your hunt.

Make sure that wind direction is taken into account as Squirrels have an incredibly sharp sense of smell which could give away any presence or odors from humans nearby. Setting up a blind or tree stand may prove beneficial as it allows you to get closer without being detected by your prey.

 

Squirrel Season

Unit Area Dates
 Statewide Open areas 29 Sep – 31 Jan
31 01 Jul – 30 Jun
33 01 Sep – 31 May

Elk

Elks are nothing short of remarkable, with large bulls weighing an astonishing 1,200 pounds and the average ranging from 600 to 800. Adult female elk generally stay between 450 and 600 pounds – making them second only to moose in size within the deer family.

In terms of agility, these creatures can easily reach a speed of 40 mph during short bursts while maintaining 30 mph for longer distances. And their strength doesn’t stop there; they’re also quite capable swimmers.

Hunting Elks in Arizona

Elk Hunting Season in Arizona

Unit Area Dates
1, 2B, 2C, 4B, 5A, 5B, 10, 3A, 3C, 18A, 15A, 15B 29 Sep – 05 Oct
22 North, 23 North 29 Sep – 05 Oct
5A 15 Sep – 21 Sep
1, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3C, 4A, 4B , 8, 9, 10 01 Dec – 07 Dec
5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7 East, 7West, 19A, 21, 23, 22 South, 27 01 Dec – 07 Dec
22 North, 1, 2B, 2C, 6B, 7 East, 8, 9, 10, 23 08 Dec – 14 Dec
4A, 5A, 6A, 5B South, 7 East, 9, 10, 7 West, 19A, 21, 23, 22 North, 22 South, 27 20 Oct – 26 Oct
5B North 13 Oct – 19 Oct
15A, 15B, 18A, 17 Nov – 07 Dec
3A, 3C, 4B 10 Nov – 16 Nov

Bighorn Sheep

Arizona is an incredible destination for bighorn sheep hunting. Its rugged terrain and steep, rocky cliffs make it the perfect habitat to spot these majestic creatures. With various subspecies of bighorns found across the state – from Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Desert Bighorn Sheep, Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep to California Bighorn Sheep – Arizona has something for every hunter.

Before you set out on your hunt though, be sure to get a license from the Arizona Game and Fish Department and know which weapons are allowed in each region. Bowhunting or using a .270 caliber rifle cartridge is typically recommended as it offers greater accuracy when aiming at such agile animals. So grab your gear and head out into this wild outdoors; with some luck, you’ll bag yourself a trophy-worthy sheep.

Bighorn Sheep Season

Unit Area Dates
9, 10 01 Oct – 31 Dec
12B East, 37A 10 Nov – 30 Nov
12B East, 37A, 27, 28 24 Nov – 14 Dec
12B East, 37A, 28, 41 West, 43B, 45A, 45B, 46C, 46B East, 46B West 08 Dec – 31 Dec
13B North, 15B West, 15C North, 15D, 15C South, 16A, 24B Noth, 24B South, 37B, 3941 East, 40A, 43A, 43B. 46A, 6A, 23, 24A 01 Dec – 31 Dec
28, 40B, 43B, 45C, 45A, 17 Nov – 07 Dec

Pronghorn

With an abundance of species to choose from, it’s no surprise that pronghorns have become a favorite among hunters lately. These majestic animals, also known as American antelopes, are native to many parts of the western US and northern Mexico – areas where Arizona boasts large populations.

Getting your hands on necessary permits and licenses for pronghorn hunting in this region can be tricky; however, it’s well worth the effort. Season-long limits are typically set at 4 animals per hunter with additional restrictions applied depending on location. Because these creatures are so swift and cautious by nature, successful hunts usually involve techniques like spot-and-stalk or ambushing from elevated stands or blinds – making them a fun yet challenging target.

 

Pronghorn Season Arizona

Unit Area Dates
13A, 13B, 17A, 18B, 30A, 31, 32, 35A, 35B 08 Sep – 17 Sep
18A, 19B 15 Sep – 21 Sep
19A 01 Sep – 07 Sep

Sandhill Crane

The Sandhill Crane is one of the largest game birds in North America and can be found migrating through Arizona during spring and fall. Hunting Sandhill Cranes requires a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department, as well as a current license. Hunters are also required to have both federal and state waterfowl stamps.

Its important to familiarize yourself with Arizonas regulations for hunting these birds as they vary from other states. When pursuing these magnificent creatures, its important to remember that patience is key as they are very wary of human presence.

Utilizing calls and decoys can help lure them within range; however, it may take several attempts before you are successful at getting them close enough for a clean shot.

Hunting Sandhill Cranes in Arizona

 

Sandhill Crane Season in Arizona

Unit Area Dates
30A, 30B, 31, 32 17 Nov – 19 Nov
30A, 30B, 31, 32 21 Nov – 23 Nov
30A, 30B, 31, 32, 28 25 Nov – 27 Nov
30A, 30B, 31, 32, 28 29 Nov – 01 Dec
30A, 30B, 31, 32, 28 03 Dec – 05 Dec
30A, 30B, 31, 32, 28, 29 15 Dec – 17 Dec
28 11 Dec – 13 Dec
29 10 Dec – 12 Dec

Pheasant Season

Unit Area Dates
40B (limited to shotgun shooting) 01 Sep – 15 Sep
Statewide 13 Oct – 11 Feb
Statewide 11 Sep – 11 Feb

Chukar Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide 01 Sep – 11 Feb

Grouse Season

Species Dates
Ducky grouse 01 Sep – 05 Nov

Dove and Pigeon Season

Species Dates Bag Limit
Dove 01 Sep – 15 Sep 15
Dove 17 Nov – 31 Dec 15
Pigeon 29 Sep – 12 Oct 2

Fox Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Imperial National Wildlife Refuges 13 Oct – 11 Feb
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Raccoon Season

Hunting Raccoons in Arizona

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Weasel Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Statewide (Limited to Shotgun Shooting) 01 Aug – 31 Mar

Coyote Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge 13 Oct – 11 Feb

Ringtail Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Skunk Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 01 Jul – 30 Jun
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge 13 Oct – 11 Feb

Bobcat Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Badger Season

Unit Area Dates
Statewide open area except for 11M, 25M, 26M, 38M Units 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge 01 Aug – 31 Mar
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge 25 Aug – 29 Feb

Waterfowl Season

Species Dates
General Waterfowl (Ducks, White Geese, Dark Geese) 23 Oct – 31 Jan
Ducks, White Geese, Dark Geese (Youth Only ) 10 Feb – 11 Feb
Falconry Waterfowl Season 01 Feb – 04 Feb

Arizona Hunting License Information

If you are interested in hunting in Arizona, it’s essential to understand the regulations and requirements. A valid hunting license is mandatory for all hunters, requiring individuals to meet specific criteria and be at least 12 years old before they can obtain one.
Different licenses are available – general season permits, big game tags, specialized hunting authorizations, and youth passes for those under 18 – with prices varying depending on the type of license as well as resident or non-resident status. An annual license costs just $37 if you’re a state resident but could set you back up to $160 if not from around here.

Hunting licenses are valid for a full year from the date of purchase. Arizona residents have the special privilege to apply for and receive a lifetime hunting license.

Types of Hunting Licenses in Arizona

  • Resident License: To be classified as a resident of Arizona, an individual must have resided in the state for a minimum of six months. Active-duty military personnel are also recognized as residents.
  • Non-resident License: All non-residents above 10 years should get a hunting license before going out to hunt in Arizona.
  • Youth Hunting License: Individuals under the age of 10 in both Arizona and nonArizona residents can go hunting without needing to purchase a license, however, they must be accompanied by someone who is 18 years old or older who has a valid hunting license. This rule does not apply when hunting big game animals such as elk, deer, and antelope.
  • Senior Hunting License: People who are at least 70 years old and have been living in Arizona for the past 25 years can apply for the free pioneer license.
  • Disability License: Residents with 100% disability can be issued hunting licenses.
  • Military License: Active-duty military members stationed in Arizona and those who are residents but posted elsewhere can purchase resident hunting licenses. Furthermore, disabled veterans with 100% service-connected disability who have lived in Arizona for a year qualify for free Disabled Veteran Licenses.

Where Can You Hunt in Arizona?

With Arizona’s diverse natural habitats, there’s no shortage of hunting opportunities for all levels. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced hunter, planning a hunting trip to the Grand Canyon State has never been easier. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to hunt in Arizona.

Public Hunting Places in Arizona

White Mountains

The White Mountains of Arizona offer a wealth of opportunities for hunting, with deer, elk, bear, and other game animals in abundance. Nature lovers will find the landscape breathtaking throughout the year – vibrant wildflowers blooming during springtime and stunning fall foliage during autumn. And campers won’t be left out either; there are plenty of camping sites to choose from.

Kaibab National Forest

The Kaibab National Forest is another popular hunting area within Arizona’s boundaries providing hunters with opportunities to hunt deer, elk, mountain lion, and more within its 3 million acres of land. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to get away from civilization in search of their prey while still being close enough to various towns so they can easily make their way back home should they need anything else during their hunt trip.

Coronado National Forest

The Coronado National Forest is also known as one of the best public places to go hunting in Arizona due to its diverse landscape featuring four different mountain ranges – Chiricahua Mountains, Huachuca Mountains, Santa Catalina Mountains, and Rincon Mountains – allowing hunters access to a wide range of species including deer, turkey quail and javelina among others.

This scenic forest offers some breathtaking views as well making it an excellent destination no matter what type of outdoor activity you may be interested in pursuing.

Prescott National Forest

The Prescott National Forest is an amazing spot for hunting in Arizona. Located where the Mogollon Rim and Colorado Plateau meet, it’s a great place to hunt elk, mule deer, turkey, quail, and javelina. It also has some really good camping spots if you want to stay longer and take in nature’s beauty while hunting.

Make sure you have your valid license with you at all times when out there though – don’t forget about state regulations on bag limits per species or season! Dress appropriately according to weather conditions too; temperatures can get pretty extreme depending on which part of the forest you’re exploring.

Private Hunting Places in Arizona

Scoping out private land for hunting can be a challenge if you don’t know where to start. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive anymore. No need for clubs, guide fees or going door-to-door asking permission. The majority of Arizona is in fact private property and with the right strategies, accessing these lands for an enjoyable day of hunting has never been easier. Not only will you avoid crowds but also get better results as animals won’t be spooked as easily!