Arizona Hunting Reports
Arizona Hunting Report
Spring in Arizona brings a transition from desert hunts to high‐country pursuits. Mule deer archery season around Prescott wrapped up in late September, yielding strong success rates as bucks finished velvet. Bull elk rut hunts near the Grand Canyon peaked in early October, with hunters reporting 75–85 % success under Bar M Outfitters’ guidance. Summer scouting trips have identified prime late‐season mule deer staging areas and new elk bugling grounds above 7,000 ft. As resident game herds recover post‐rut, non‐resident over‐the‐counter tag opportunities look promising for both elk and mule deer this fall.
Key Observations:
- Mule Deer: Excellent population density in Prescott National Forest; mature bucks moving to lower elevations earlier due to warmer temperatures.
- Elk: Strong rut activity in Grand Canyon’s North Rim; ample public‐land access provides diverse calling opportunities.
- Tag Applications: Reminder—non‐resident draw deadline is mid‐March; over‐the‐counter tags available starting July 1 for eligible units.
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