New to archery and AZ hunting
Contributors to this thread:Arizona
From: thumper
04-Dec-12
I am new to hunting in AZ and going to learn archery this year. I used to hunt in Montana growing up and well learned a lot. My question is I am going to try to hunt unit 21 or 22 by putting in for tag and/or bow hunting. I am going to start to hike the area very soon and start to get the lay of the land. My main transportation is a car so I know I am limited in that area but where would be some good starting points for a overnight hike that could produce some decent game next year. I was thinking like West side of Mazatzal Wilderness. I used to pack out my game in Montana so packing one out here is not a big concern. I was thinking hiking a day in to get away from some of the pressure.
From: notags
04-Dec-12
Welcometo AZ.! Good news is NO grizzlies. bad news, we have wolves and " Idiots United for Stupidity" Want to expand their range. I have not hunted that area myself, but there are quite a few on this site who have. Dont be shocked by th elack of animals (deer especially) that you may see compared to your home state. Wejust dont havethat many. Other good thing, no snow to trudge through compared to what ur used to. If your gonna hike the area, carry a shotgun, probably find some quail up that way. Good luck and have fun.
From: azdogman
05-Dec-12
What made you pick those units? Where do you live. Good luck and I'm sure you will enjoy AZ. Lots to do and plenty of hunting.
From: thumper
05-Dec-12
I live in Phoenix and I thought that due to the national forest and able to access it by car would help. I was kind of hoping being that I would hike in a little ways that it would increase my chances. I realistically am just looking to get out and try my luck at hunting in AZ. I am open to other suggestions as far as units and whatever else go
From: azdogman
05-Dec-12
Plenty of archery deer hunting accessible by car around flagstaff. Don't get to caught up in hiking in miles and miles. Not necessary here in az. Main thing is get your bow and start shooting so your ready for august deer hunt. Maybe you can warm up on javelina right here by phoenix on the over the counter tag
From: Uncle Bob
06-Dec-12
If you like to hike... the Mazatel's are a nice place to do it and this is a great time of year to be in there. There have been a couple of burns so check on the NF site to see the areas effected. There use to be a web site that did an overlay of burn areas in GE...if I can find I'll send across.
You'll find a mix of Mulies and Coues deer. There is also Bear and Javelina.
Like AZDOGMAN said there are car accessible areas around Flagstaff that are also great units to hunt. A lot of units in AZ are car accessible so don't limit yourself.
For unit 21 try the northern half. Not as many people up there. If you want a day adventure there are a couple of trails on the southern side outside of Cave Creek.
From: StickFlicker
06-Dec-12
Be very careful of hunting near Cave Creek, as much of the area has been closed to hunting.
From: thumper
07-Dec-12
I figured I would get out and hike a little this spring or maybe next month to get a feel for the area and hit both north/south side. I hope there is a little snow up there as it will remind me of home.
From: thumper
07-Dec-12
I am buying everything again so what does everyone wear to hunt around here? I am going to start hiking and need some suggestions for the clothes to buy for hiking the wilderness in the early spring/late fall. I figured I would pick up some insulated boots due to it being in the 40's up there. I prefer a layered approach and love under armor.
From: RED 1954
18-Jan-13
If your up to it, you can still get over the counter deer tags. Season ends Jan 31. The rut is hot here in southern AZ good chance to at least see some of the many deer available. I hunt near the base of the Catalina Mountains just outside of Tucson, Lots and lots of Muley's near Oracle AZ in the low rollers. Good luck and welcome to AZ