If you're looking for top-tier elk hunting units in Arizona for quality bulls, you’re in the right state. Arizona has some of the best elk hunting opportunities in the country, especially for trophy bulls. The state offers a mix of over-the-counter and limited-entry hunts, with limited-entry hunts providing the best chances for large, mature bulls. Here are five of the top units for quality elk in Arizona:
1. Unit 1 (Navajo, Apache, and Gila Counties)
- Why it’s great: Unit 1 is often considered one of the top units in Arizona for producing large bulls. This unit has a healthy population of elk and is known for consistent trophy quality. It’s a limited-entry unit, so the tag is hard to draw, but the chances of bagging a big bull are worth the wait.
- Terrain: Diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and mountainous terrain.
- Trophy potential: Many hunters report bulls in the 350-370 inch range, and some even larger. It’s one of the most productive units for elk in Arizona.
2. Unit 9 (Coconino and Mohave Counties)
- Why it’s great: Unit 9 is known for producing high-quality bulls with great genetics. It’s also a limited-entry unit and offers an excellent mix of both high desert and forested areas, which makes it ideal for hunters who prefer varied terrain. The overall bull-to-cow ratio in this unit is favorable, increasing your chances of encountering a mature bull.
- Terrain: The terrain is a mix of pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pine forests, with some rugged, rocky areas.
- Trophy potential: Bulls in the 350-380 inch range are not uncommon, with some bulls reaching into the 400s.
3. Unit 10 (Coconino County)
- Why it’s great: Unit 10 is another limited-entry unit with a solid reputation for producing big bulls. It’s a large area, with varying elevations, and offers a mix of hunting conditions. This unit has a history of producing both large bulls and trophy-class elk.
- Terrain: This unit features diverse terrain, including mixed conifer forests, open meadows, and steep, rocky slopes.
- Trophy potential: Bulls in the 350-380 inch range, with some bulls breaking the 400-inch mark. It’s a great spot for hunters looking for a high-quality, mature bull.
4. Unit 23 (North-central Arizona)
- Why it’s great: Unit 23 has a reputation for producing some of the biggest bulls in Arizona. It’s one of the best units for hunters looking for large, trophy-class elk, but it’s also quite competitive, with many hunters applying for the limited-entry tags. This unit offers some of the most remote and challenging hunting, which is often where you’ll find those older, more mature bulls.
- Terrain: It features rugged terrain, from pine forests to high desert. Much of the hunting is at higher elevations.
- Trophy potential: Bulls in the 350-400 inch range are common, and there are some true giants that exceed 400 inches.
5. Unit 27 (Southern Arizona)
- Why it’s great: Unit 27 is known for its high-quality bulls and some of the most picturesque elk country in Arizona. While it’s a smaller unit, it’s still a limited-entry area with solid hunting opportunities. It's often considered one of the more underrated elk units in Arizona, but it still has potential for big bulls if you’re willing to put in the effort.
- Terrain: Primarily mountainous terrain with dense forests, mixed vegetation, and some open meadows. It’s a bit more isolated compared to other units, which can lead to fewer hunters and more elk.
- Trophy potential: Bulls in the 330-360 inch range, with some reaching into the 370s. You’ll need to put in time scouting, but it’s a good area for quality elk.
Key Considerations:
- Tag Drawing: Limited-entry units like Units 1, 9, 10, 23, and 27 are highly competitive, and drawing a tag can take several years depending on the unit and your preference points. If you’re after big bulls, these units are worth the wait.
