Hunting in Arizona: Top Spots for Hunting in the Grand Canyon State

Hunting in Arizona offers a wealth of game to choose from, from small game like squirrels and doves to larger animals including big horn sheep and buffalo.

Every species has its hot spots whether it’s elk and antelope in Northern and North Central Arizona, swine-like javelina in central and southern Arizona, or turkey on the eastern side of the state.

ALERT: Should Obama Have More Control Over Guns? Vote Now

So for those looking for a strong hunting harvest, here are the top spots for hunting in the Grand Canyon State:

1. Coconino National Forest
According to Field and Stream, limited access (i.e. zero vehicular traffic) to Pine Grove and Rattlesnake Quiet Areas mean hunters who aren’t willing to take a hike leave prime elk hunting for those who don’t mind putting in the effort to find them.

2. Cibola National Wildlife Refuge
Located in Yuma, this is a popular spot for waterfowl and small game hunting. Visitors can take a driving tour to view the birds or enter a separate hunting area with several various units for a morning of shooting.

3. Gila County
According to Game and Fish Magazine, “Four of Arizona’s Top 10 cats have come from Gila County, making this the best bet for a trophy lion.” The magazine also says it’s some of the state’s most productive game country offering hunting for much more than big cats.

VOTE NOW: Is Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey Doing a Good Job?

4. Flagstaff
In and around the Flagstaff region across the Northern part of the state, mule deer hunting abounds. The popular Arizona Strip and Kaibab Plateau are in the Flagstaff region and regularly see hunted bucks as big as 200 inches.

5. Coronado National Forest
According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, there are more Gould’s turkeys in Arizona than there have been in the last 100 years. That makes their habitat in the high country of Southern Arizona a prime hunting spot for those hoping to bag a ton.

6. San Carlos Apache Reservation
Low hunter pressure and a variety of species make this a prime hunting spot in Arizona. Elk, turkey, big horn sheep and javelina can all be found here, but javelina hunting permits can be purchased over the counter, making it a popular location for those hunts.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

URGENT: Do You Support Obama's Plans for Stricter Gun Control? Vote Now

Related Stories:

• Hunting in Arizona: 4 Animals To Hunt in the Fall

• Hunting in Arizona: 4 Animals To Hunt Year-Round