Guided Arizona elk hunts
Arizona Elk: Overview
One look in either the Boone and Crockett, or Pope and Young record books and you'll soon realize why hunters consider Arizona to be the best place in the world to chase trophy bulls. There is no other state that consistently puts more elk in the record books than Arizona. Our mild winters and abundant feed and water in Arizona elk country mean our herd is unparalleled. 400" bulls are not uncommon. Your chances at a 350" bull are extremely high. Our herds are strong, and the hunting opportunities are excellent.
Above average winter rainfall and snowpack should create excellent conditions for antler growth, making the 2010-2011 hunt season look even more promising.
Click here to view our elk hunting galleries.
Hunting elk in Arizona requires a tag. There are two types of tags: permit tags and non-permit tags. Hunting during the general seasons, including archers and muzzleloader hunters, requires a permit-tag. Permit-tags are issued through a lottery draw process. The best hunts in the best units see intense demand, so it is important to have an effective draw strategy. There are limited non-permit tags that can be purchased over the counter. Hunting with these permits can be difficult, as they are typically in areas that are not designated for elk herds, and don't hold large numbers of elk, but every year persistent hunters find success.
Both bulls and cow elk can be hunted in Arizona. Cow permits are easier to draw than coveted bull tags, and the hunting can be just as exciting. The draw for Arizona elk permits takes place in the spring. Contact us early for a draw strategy consultation.
Arizona Elk: Firearm hunting seasons
There are four general seasons and two muzzleloader season for hunting elk in Arizona, although not every hunting unit is open for each season. Early rifle and muzzle loader seasons start in September, when the bulls are rutting. No other season offers the excitement and chance for a trophy Arizona elk like the early season hunts. However, permit-tags are most difficult to draw.
The second season begins in the middle to end of October. Bull will be mostly done with rutting activity, and will begin to herd up again. Not every unit has an October hunt, please consult the Arizona regulations for details, or give us a call for a draw consultation.
General elk and late muzzleloader seasons occur in November. Temperatures in elk country will be cold, with the possibility for hazzardous snow conditions. Bulls will be working to regain body fat to sustain themselves through winter. They will be found in bachelor groups, in very thick, remote, and steep terrain.
In limited units a final elk season begins at the start of December. Temperatures will be very cold, and there is likely to be snow on the ground. Large bulls will be together, while immature bulls will likely remain with herds of cows.
Arizona Elk: Archery hunting seasons
Archery hunters in Arizona enjoy two seasons. The early season begins in the middle to end of September. Elk will respond to calls during this season, but coaxing them in can be difficult. Some days bulls may only call after dark, making pre-season scouting vital to a successful hunt.
The late archery season is in November, and can be a very difficult hunt. Bulls are weary from a long breeding season, and desperately need to put on body weight. Bulls seldom roam alone, preferring each others company. Spot and stalk hunting is easily foiled by snow pack or dry dead grasses, so extreme care must be taken to conceal as much excess noise and human scent as possible. Sitting in ground blinds or tree stands over water sources is a very effective strategy during the late archery elk season, but scouting is important to locate prime locations.
Arizona Elk: Strategies
We spend significant time every year scouting the best units for Arizona elk. Our hunting strategies depend on the time of year and the type of weapon you are using. Late season rifle hunts are spot and stalk. We use high-powered optics mounted on steady tripods to locate acceptable bulls. Once a bull is located, we then plan a stalk to get within range. Spot and stalk hunting with a bow is very demanding, but it is fairly easy to get within rifle range of Arizona bull elk.
Early season hunters, including first archery, rifle and muzzleloader seasons, usually involve calling to elk to locate herd bulls, then either stalking within shooting range, or coaxing bulls in using cow calls. This is the most exciting time to hunt elk, but competition for tags is highest, limiting the opportunities to a very lucky few. We also have the option of sitting water tanks, concealed in high quality ground blinds.
Late season archers face additional difficulty, as the bulls are no longer responding to calls. Spot and stalk can be difficult on big weary bulls. In dry conditions, sitting water holes might be the most effective way to get a shot at a good Arizona elk.
Arizona Elk Camps: Accomodations and other details
we accomodate our Arizona elk hunters in base camps outfitted with wall tents or campers, state of the art sleeping systems, a heat source (depending upon the season), lights, and other comforts. Food is expertly prepared in large portions, and any diet requirements can be accomodated. Drinking water and other beverages are provided.
Arizona Elk: Prices and inquiries
| Hunt length | Guide ratio | Price | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 days | 1:1 | $4,200 | September - December |
Prices include: All local travel including pickup at Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport. Please bring your own firearm and ammunition, unless prior arrangements are made. Other gear will be supplied.
License and tag fees are not included.
Please contact us for additional details. If you are hunting as a group, contact us for special group packaging.
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Borderland Adventures
ph. (520) 820-4728
P.O. Box 4546
Tubac, AZ 85646
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