{"id":6441,"date":"2026-06-02T07:18:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T07:18:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/?p=6441"},"modified":"2026-05-25T19:29:39","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T19:29:39","slug":"arizona-elk-hunting-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Arizona Elk Hunting Season 2026: The Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Here&#8217;s what you need to know for 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Season dates for every hunt type (bull, cow, youth)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How much you&#8217;ll spend and how the bonus point game works<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where to actually hunt once you beat the odds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Time to break down Arizona&#8217;s elk hunting puzzle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/0e5987b9-0deb-49d9-a59f-ffc1534a35d6.jpeg\" alt=\"Arizona elk\" class=\"wp-image-6448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/0e5987b9-0deb-49d9-a59f-ffc1534a35d6.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/0e5987b9-0deb-49d9-a59f-ffc1534a35d6-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/0e5987b9-0deb-49d9-a59f-ffc1534a35d6-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Overview of Arizona Elk Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona makes you earn it. Most elk tags come through a draw system with applications due in early February. The state manages around&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.azgfd.com\/hunting\/regulations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">34,000-35,000 elk<\/a>, and everyone wants a piece of that action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-403\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-403\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Season Type<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Dates<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Units<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Elk Type<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Bull (Early)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Sep 25\u2013Oct 1<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">3A\/3C, 4B, 5B, 9, 10, 15A\/15B\/18A, 22N, 23N, 23S, 27<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Bull<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Bull (Late)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Nov 27\u2013Dec 3<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1\/2B\/2C, 3A\/3C, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7E, 7W, 8, 9, 10, 15A\/15B\/18A, 19A, 21, 22N, 22S, 23, 27<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Bull<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Bull (Extended)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Dec 4\u201310<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">22N, 27<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Bull<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Antlerless (Oct)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Oct 9\u201322<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Multiple units<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Antlerless<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Antlerless (Nov-Dec)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Nov 6\u2013Dec 31<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Multiple units<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Antlerless<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Youth-Only<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Oct 2\u201315<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">10, 1\/2C, 3A\/3C, 4A, 5A, 5B S\/6A, 7W, 9, 22, 23<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Antlerless<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-403 from cache -->\n\n\n<p>The rules are straightforward:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bag Limit<\/strong>: One elk per year, period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tagging<\/strong>: Download&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona&#8217;s E-Tag app<\/a>&nbsp;for electronic tagging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunter Education<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kids under 14 need it<\/a>&nbsp;for big game<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>License requirements break down like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Get your Arizona hunting license first<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for elk permits through the draw<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bonus points help your odds but don&#8217;t guarantee anything<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Want the full picture of Arizona hunting? Check our complete&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-hunting-seasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona hunting seasons guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arizona Elk Hunting Seasons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona splits elk seasons across different times and targets. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.azgfd.com\/hunting\/regulations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Game and Fish Department<\/a>&nbsp;sets all the rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">General Bull Elk Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>September 25\u2013October 1 hits during peak rut. This is the golden ticket.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.chappellguideservice.com\/arizona-elk-hunts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona times these early hunts right when bulls are going crazy<\/a>, which explains why these tags are nearly impossible to draw. Units 9, 10, and 23 during early season? Good luck with that draw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>November 27\u2013December 3 gives you way better odds but the party&#8217;s over.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinfool.com\/states\/arizona\/elk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Late hunts can be brutal with weather and scattered bulls, but your chances of drawing actually exist<\/a>. You&#8217;ll need different tactics since bulls aren&#8217;t rutting anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>December 4\u201310 runs extended season in Units 22N and 27 only. Limited options but additional opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/63acd122-8155-4183-8829-8dac205bee57.jpeg\" alt=\"Arizona elk season \" class=\"wp-image-6450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/63acd122-8155-4183-8829-8dac205bee57.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/63acd122-8155-4183-8829-8dac205bee57-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/63acd122-8155-4183-8829-8dac205bee57-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">General Antlerless Elk Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cow hunts help manage populations and give you realistic draw odds. Way better than chasing bull tags. Here&#8217;s the breakdown:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Oct 9\u201315<\/strong>: 5B North<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oct 16\u201322<\/strong>: 4A, 5A, 5B N\/S, 6A, 7E, 7W, Kachina Peaks, 9, 10, 19A, 21, 22N\/S, 23, 27<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nov 6\u201312<\/strong>: 3A\/3C, 4B<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dec 4\u201310<\/strong>: Escudilla-Auger, 6B, 7E, 7W, 8, 9, 10, 15A\/15B\/18A, 23<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dec 4\u201313<\/strong>: 19A<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dec 4\u201331<\/strong>: 1\/2B\/2C (extended season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Cow hunts make perfect sense for new elk hunters. Learn the game, fill your freezer, skip the decade-long wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Youth-Only Elk Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kids get their own seasons with cheaper tags and less competition:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Oct 2\u201311<\/strong>: Unit 10 (Antlerless)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oct 9\u201315<\/strong>: Units 1\/2C, 3A\/3C, 4A, 5A, 5B S\/6A, 7W, 9, 22, 23 (Antlerless)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kids 10-13 need Hunter Education for big game<\/a>. Youth tags cost just $50 for non-residents versus $665 for regular elk tags. Smart parents start here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arizona Elk Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona makes you jump through two hoops: get a hunting license, then pray to the draw gods for elk permits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arizona Hunting Licenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pick your poison:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-404\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-404\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">License Type<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Resident Cost<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Non-Resident Cost<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Hunting<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$37.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Not available<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Hunting only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Combination Hunt and Fish<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$57.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$160.00<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Most popular<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Youth Combination (ages 10-17)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$5.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$5.00<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Steal of a deal<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-404 from cache -->\n\n\n<p>Non-residents must buy the combination license. No choice there. Get it through AZGFD&#8217;s website or license dealers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f86b9a21-df6d-4403-9135-215e1435c1c9.jpeg\" alt=\"Arizona elk permits\" class=\"wp-image-6451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f86b9a21-df6d-4403-9135-215e1435c1c9.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f86b9a21-df6d-4403-9135-215e1435c1c9-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f86b9a21-df6d-4403-9135-215e1435c1c9-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arizona Elk Permit-Tags<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona&#8217;s bonus point system works like this:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">every year you don&#8217;t draw, you get a bonus point<\/a>. Top 20% of tags go to highest point holders first, then 80% get randomly distributed.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">But here&#8217;s the kicker &#8211; you can still win with zero points<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-405\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-405\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Tag Type<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Resident<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Non-Resident<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">General Elk (Bull or Cow)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$148.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$665.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Youth Cow-Only<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2014<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$50.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-405 from cache -->\n\n\n<p>Application timeline:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Buy Arizona hunting license<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set up AZGFD portal account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit application in January<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinfool.com\/states\/arizona\/elk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deadline hits in early February<\/a>&nbsp;(2026 was February 3)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Results drop late February<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you win, they charge your account<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona elk tags rank among the hardest draws in America. Some premium units take decades, especially for non-residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Hunt Elk in Arizona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona offers public land, guided hunts, and private access.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most hunting happens on public land &#8211; state, federal, and national forest. No landowner tags exist<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Public Lands for Elk Hunting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Public land dominates Arizona elk hunting across BLM, National Forest, and State Trust lands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Units 9, 10, and 23<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinfool.com\/states\/arizona\/elk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">These Alternative units manage for lower bull-to-cow ratios, creating older bulls and making them the most coveted in the state<\/a>. Trophy potential is insane, draw odds are worse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Units 1 and 27<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Famous for big bulls, lots of elk, and hunter-friendly terrain for scouting and pack-outs<\/a>. If you draw these, you hit the jackpot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Units 3A\/3C and 5B<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Solid opportunities for rifle and bow hunters<\/a>&nbsp;with slightly better draw odds than premium units.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Units 4A, 6A, 7E, 7W<\/strong>: Mid-tier choices with decent public access and reasonable draw odds for point-builders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona elk live everywhere from thick pine forests on the Mogollon Rim to open plateaus, meadows, and juniper country<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guided Elk Hunts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Guides make sense for out-of-state hunters or anyone who drew a premium tag and wants to maximize their shot.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fully guided hunts run $4,000-8,000, not including tips, travel, and extras<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What you get:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pre-season scouting and unit knowledge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Camp setup and logistics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Calling skills and hunting strategy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meat care and trophy handling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/exclusivepursuitoutfitters.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Outfitters book limited Arizona elk hunts yearly, so contact them fast when you draw<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/da277d55-9229-4742-a2b7-3521e0c566de.jpeg\" alt=\"Arizona elk hunting\" class=\"wp-image-6452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/da277d55-9229-4742-a2b7-3521e0c566de.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/da277d55-9229-4742-a2b7-3521e0c566de-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/da277d55-9229-4742-a2b7-3521e0c566de-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Land Elk Hunting with Hunting Locator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona doesn&#8217;t do landowner tags, but private land hunting cuts pressure and improves access.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ridgelineoutfitters.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Some outfitters control private land access for trophy elk, with properties producing 360-400+ inch bulls<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Private land benefits: less pressure, controlled access, known elk populations, easier terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hunting Locator connects you directly with landowners<\/strong>&nbsp;offering hunting leases and access across Arizona. Looking for dedicated elk property or multi-species opportunities? Our platform lets you browse properties, compare options, and connect with landowners in one spot.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/arizona\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Find Arizona hunting land<\/a>&nbsp;for your next adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Elk Hunting Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona&#8217;s country demands specific strategies for success:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Invest in Glass<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Quality optics and tripods (Swarovski, Manfrotto) are essential for glassing<\/a>&nbsp;Arizona&#8217;s open terrain. Cheap glass won&#8217;t cut it here.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pack for Extremes<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/arizonatrophyoutfitters.com\/elk-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Early hunts hit 90 degrees, late hunts drop to zero<\/a>. Layer systems are mandatory for temperature swings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunt Water Sources<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Elk usually water in evenings, but during hot, dry periods with limited water, they&#8217;ll come anytime<\/a>. Tanks near bedding areas produce best.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Call Smart<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernwhitetail.com\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most early bow hunters want to chase bugles and call, which works when conditions are right and you have skill. Bad calling beats no calling every time<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practice Long Shots<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/arizonatrophyoutfitters.com\/elk-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Expect shots from 250-500 yards or your comfortable limit<\/a>. Range time at distance pays off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Get Fit<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona terrain challenges unprepared hunters, with high elevation and rugged country demanding physical preparation<\/a>. Cardio training and weighted hikes are non-negotiable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Need gear for Arizona&#8217;s demanding elk country? Check the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator store<\/a>&nbsp;for equipment recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Resources from Hunting Locator<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dive deeper into Arizona hunting with these guides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Elk Hunting<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Advanced strategies and unit breakdowns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-deer-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Deer Hunting<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Complete deer hunting guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-bear-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Bear Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Black bear hunting essentials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-javelina-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Javelina Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Desert pig hunting guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-pronghorn-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Pronghorn Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Speed goat strategies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-bighorn-sheep-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Bighorn Sheep Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Ultimate trophy experience<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-mountain-lion-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Mountain Lion Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Predator hunting tactics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-dove-hunting-season\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Dove Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Fast wing shooting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-upland-game-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Upland Game Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Quail, rabbit, small game<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-small-game-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Small Game Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Complete small game guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-bison-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona Bison Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; Rare trophy opportunities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is the Arizona elk hunting application deadline for 2027?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.chappellguideservice.com\/arizona-elk-hunts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona&#8217;s elk draw happens annually in January with the next deadline February 2nd, 2027<\/a>. Applications typically open mid-January, giving you about three weeks to apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much do Arizona elk tags cost for non-residents?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Non-resident general elk tags (bull or cow) cost $665. Youth cow tags run $50 for non-residents. You&#8217;ll also need a non-resident Combination Hunt and Fish license for $160 before applying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can you buy over-the-counter elk tags in Arizona?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinfool.com\/states\/arizona\/elk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A few elk units offer OTC options, but these areas have low elk numbers and poor success rates<\/a>. Most Arizona elk hunting requires the competitive draw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the best Arizona elk units for first-time hunters?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Units 1, 9, 10, 23, and 27 are famous for big bulls, high elk numbers, and forgiving terrain for scouting and pack-outs. Units 3A\/3C and 5B offer good rifle and archery opportunities<\/a>. But premium units have terrible draw odds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do you need hunter education to hunt elk in Arizona?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/arizona-elk-hunting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kids 10-13 must complete Hunter Education for big game<\/a>. Adults aren&#8217;t required to take it, but it&#8217;s smart for safety and knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does Arizona&#8217;s bonus point system work?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Arizona uses a lottery with multiple &#8220;passes.&#8221; First pass goes to bonus point holders (20% of tags), with highest points getting priority. Second pass is random draw for 80% of remaining tags<\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntwise.com\/field-guide\/big-game\/the-guide-to-arizona-elk-hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">You can still draw with zero points<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Final Shot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arizona elk hunting sits at the top of North America&#8217;s big game pyramid. World-class trophy potential meets brutal draw odds, creating one of hunting&#8217;s ultimate challenges. Whether you&#8217;re starting your bonus point journey or preparing for a 2026 tag, success demands planning, fitness, and smart choices about units and seasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s the reality: Arizona elk hunting is a marathon, not a sprint. Draw odds suck, but the reward &#8211; a shot at a monster bull in incredible country &#8211; makes the wait worth every year. Start building points now, stay in shape, and study units for when your number hits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The waiting game stinks, but that tag in your pocket? Pure gold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to level up your Arizona hunting game?&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/arizona\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Browse private hunting land<\/a>&nbsp;on Hunting Locator and connect with landowners who can provide the access that separates successful hunts from stories about the ones that got away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Arizona elk hunting is one of the most interesting of all. Read more to find out the details for the most successful hunt. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":6453,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[57,45,68,10,16],"class_list":["post-6441","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hunting-seasons","tag-arizona","tag-elk-hunting","tag-hunting","tag-hunting-seasons","tag-season-dates"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6441","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6441"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6441\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6454,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6441\/revisions\/6454"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6453"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6441"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6441"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6441"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}