Elk hunting in Arizona

Arizona is home to some 35,000 elk, and elk hunting in Arizona regularly produces some of the biggest elk trophies in North America, with many antlers exceeding 300 points and some pushing 400. Most of the elk are found in the ponderosa pine plateaus and mountains in the north and north east of the state, with the preferred elk hunting zones lying from San Francisco Peaks and the Kaibab National Forest to Apache National Forest. Units 12-13, 8-10, 6 and 21-23 enjoy the highest reputation among elk hunters in Arizona. Most elk permits in Arizona are limited draw; using the assistance of an outfitter, with their knowledge of terrain and the complicated Arizona draw system, improves the success chances greatly. Alternatively, a hunter can purchase a tag from First Nations, along with a guided hunt on tribal land. Early archery season, which sees the peak of the rut, and muzzleloader/”trophy bull” season immediately after, are the best bets for harvesting a trophy elk bull in Arizona. When gearing for an elk hunt in Arizona, bear in mind that you may face temperature extremes: Arizona weather can be both hot and dry, and wet and cold, depending on area, elevation, and even time of the day. Learn more about elk hunting in Arizona from our blog