Big Game

Virtually every unit in the state, EXCEPT for the units north of the Colorado River, can be hunted with archery equipment for antlered deer every year. With a liberal hunt structure, archers can pursue buck deer in January, again in August and September, and finally in December, with the process starting over again on the first day of the New Year.

It’s a terrific way to hunt and learn Arizona’s backcountry while providing an exciting hunt opportunity. At the same time, exceptional bird hunting is available for quail, so bring your shotgun.

One of the very best ways to use your hunting license is to obtain a permit to hunt javelina, the collared peccary found in many of Arizona’s big game hunting units. These challenging animals are hunted using many of the same methods used for other big game species, including optics and spot-and-stalk hunting skills. A javelina hunt also provides an opportunity to use your hunting gear and determine what works best for you. Javelina tags are regularly available, and an archery javelina hunt can be combined with a hunt for buck deer.