It was an early October hunt and the rut would be winding down but not over. There are generally one or two herds on South Canyon Point; however this area is more difficult to access as there are few roads in the area. There are 1,685 limited opportunity general (rifle) elk tags available in units all over Arizona. Having extra spare tires would also be a good idea. Areas: It may be hard to believe but the likelihood of running into an older age class buck, as near as the author can tell, is just about equal almost anywhere on the plateau. From the West: U.S. Hwy 89A Mature grouse average between 2 and 4 pounds of succulent white meat and provide delicious table fare. But it is any elk so.At least you'll get to see a lot of the Grand Canyon. Hunt success figures have fluctuated around the 40-50% range for the last decade, some of the highest hunt success for mule deer in the state. Hunt success figures have fluctuated around the 40-50% range for the last decade, some of the highest hunt success for mule deer in the state. The elevation in this area ranges from approximately 1,490' near Lake Mead to more than 8,000' in the Virgin Mountains. 3799 - Units 12A, 12B, 13A, and 13B have an extremely low-density elk population, about 40-50 elk combined for all four units. According to Arizona Game and Fish, Hunt No. Other areas to consider are Badger Springs and Soap Spring along the Vermillion Cliffs within the wilderness area. Keep movements to a minimum, scan the surrounding area constantly, and listen for turkey vocalizations. Under alternative management these favorable ratios should be maintained or even improved. The Kaibab Plateau ranges from 6,000 to 9,200; vegetation consists of ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, and aspen. Be prepared for extreme weather. This behavior includes becoming more and more nocturnal, spending more time in thick aspen and mixed conifer stands, and remaining in unroaded canyon habitats. You know when they say that something sounds too good to be true then A forum community dedicated to hunting and fishing enthusiasts in the Arizona area. The deeply eroded terrain is characterized by many protruding rock formations, with the massive sandstone Vermilion Cliffs dominating the landscape. The majority of Chukar observed along the rim of the Paria Plateau are in the vicinity of Bush Head, Powells Monument, and Fisher Point. While calling can sometimes be productive, the most successful technique is more similar to archery hunting mule deer. No motor vehicles are allowed in the Paria Canyon/Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area. Also, several lions are sighted each year by hunters glassing canyons and watching waters. During the spring hunt be prepared for cold temperatures and even snow. All three hunts are for any . If outside of wilderness you may drive cross country to retrieve your animal. Got a Buffalo up there , why ont Elk ? Camping is allowed in designated areas and within 30 of open roadways on Forest Service administered lands throughout the unit. As the season progresses mule deer bucks on the plateau become more and more secretive. Finally, during the night, prior to a morning hunt drive the roads getting out occasionally and turkey calling. This may be a good place to introduce yourself and your site or include some credits. I don't know if there is a worse hunt to be drawn for to be honest. The average age of a buck harvested on the late hunts has climbed from just over two years of age to over 4 years of age in the past several years, yearling buck weights have stabilized at an acceptable level in recent years and as a result antler development has been excellent. It is the hunters responsibility to know where they are and the state line is patrolled heavily by both Utah and Arizona law enforcement. Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Areas of elk concentrations change somewhat year-to-year, depending on localized summer rainfall filling stock tanks and greening up vegetation. Concentrate on areas that are more inaccessible. Chukar are not numerous anywhere in Kanab Creek or its associated drainages. Data currently indicates that buck: doe ratios, a very important management statistic, have rebounded as of late and are significantly higher than the statewide average. The effects of the 58,000 acre Warm Fire during the summer of 2006 appear to be largely positive for the foreseeable future with an incredible aspen, forb, and grass response being noted. If old man winter has not yet shown his face follow the suggestions given for the early hunt and good luck. Be prepared for extreme weather. Being in position at first shooting light can be critical as the big boys are often bedded down for the day within minutes of the sun breaking the horizon. The hunter questionnaire link is located on the back of your tag. Forage quality and snowfall will push the deer to the lower winter range. Unlike the early hunt, the late hunt is managed for harvesting older aged deer, having high hunter success, and low density of hunters. The AZ/UT state line on a GPS unit is N37 00.0 latitude. Do you have landowner tags, lease land, or have an lodge? I had a similar tag 10 years ago for the Kaibab proper. From the North: None Unit 12A continues to provide the turkey hunter and/or wildlife enthusiast a unique opportunity to observe Merriams Turkeys. The Warm Springs and Nail Canyon areas in 12AW, the Cocks Combs area in 12AE, and the Paria Platea have seen harvests in recent years and are good starting points. The units we hunt in Arizona: Units 6,8,10,12a,17,19,20,23. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, tips, tricks, optics, gunsmithing, reviews, reports, accessories, classifieds, and more! The squirrel is dark in color, has tufted ears, and has a large white bushy tail. Many hunters go home disappointed that they did not see big bucks on the early hunt, but every hunter should do their homework and know what they should expect on a hunt before setting high expectations. After an opening day of this activity plan on spending the next nine days in the same manner. As mentioned above, the main concentration of antelope is in House Rock Valley. Please contact any department office for additional information or to purchase an elk OTC tag. Arizona units down on the border can also provide some good mule deer hunting. Want to hunt as soon as 1-3 years? Elevations range from approximately 4,000 in Glen Canyon to 7,000 on the Paria Plateau. Come prepared for all types of weather. Favorite Deer Units : 13 b ,12a, 12b, 10, 17a & b,18b , 21, 23, 44, 20c Favorite Antelope Units: 5a, 7, 9, 10, 7a, 18a. During the spring hunt be prepared for cold temperatures and even snow. Finally, during the night, prior to a morning hunt drive the roads getting out occasionally and turkey calling. Our Arizona hunting unit scouting packages were developed to give the do it yourself hunter a head start when planning their Arizona Deer, Elk, Bear and Javelina hunts. On a 12A early hunt, once again, dont bother with pinyon/juniper habitat types unless it has snowed. Blue Grouse, Kaibab Squirrel, Merriams Turkey, Mountain Lion, Mule Deer. Camping is allowed on BLM administered lands over most of the unit. I think may try to look for antlers first. Antlerless hunters continue to enjoy high hunt success. Majority of the deer harvested on the early hunt are younger bucks around 2 years of age. Excellent recruitment and low winter mortality for the past several years has lead to population levels similar to the early 90s. Most of the scouting packages we offer are two days. Note: The state line is only marked at dirt road crossings. Other Pertinent Climate Information Contact Us Contact Us Thank you for your interest in our Deer and Elk Hunts. Arizona Mule Deer, Elk & Antelope Hunts. This is all conjecture on my part of course. I am just curious ,my first thoughts were not many bulls but maybe big? The most common technique for lion hunting in Unit 12 is similar to that used throughout the Rim country in Arizona. Finally, enjoy the finest terrain, climate, and surroundings that nature has to offer, the Kaibab Plateau. Hunters with a 12B permit (vs. 12BW permit) may hunt the Paria Plateau as well as the rest of the Unit. And that 20% species distribution may lie 100% within private lands. Older age "mature" bulls are taken on a regular basis. Please contact the USFS North Kaibab Ranger District for further information at the phone number listed below. Finally, mule deer throughout their range are altering their behavior as hunting pressure increases. Climate Information Overview: The Unit 12A Mountain Lion population, based on harvest information and observed lion sign, appears to be healthy and robust. Drier habitat conditions further to the east limit use of this area. Although these are a little tougher hunts, a trophy Arizona elk is definitely a likely possibility to harvest. The separation of 12BW from 12B was designed to limit the number of hunters and the deer harvest on the Paria Plateau, but not restrict a hunter with a 12B permit to only hunting the Paria Plateau. Beginning at U.S. Hwy 89A and the Kaibab Naitonal Forest boundary near mp 566; southerly and easterly along the forest boundary to Grand Canyon National Park; southerly and westerly along the park boundary to Kanab Creek; northerly along Kanab Creek to Snake Gulch; northerly, easterly and southerly around the Kaibab National Forest boundary to U.S. Hwy 89A near mp 566. Grouse, like squirrels, appear to be most active early in the morning but walking throughout the day can result in flushed birds. However, for the past few years, bison have been seen near Wall Lake, as well as along Forest Service Roads 219B, 223, 270, and 610. The large canyons and rocky areas that form the edges of the Kaibab and Paria plateaus are likely areas to locate lion sign. The Vermillion Cliffs and Paria Plateau in 12BE, the western side of Buckskin Mountain, and the Gunsight peninsula including Kanab Creek and Snake Gulch have seen harvests in recent years, and are good starting points. Sir, Cut your losses and stay home, worst unit almost in whole state. Spring sources along the Vermilion Cliffs are best accessed by horseback or hiking from Highway 89A 2 or 3 miles to the base of the cliffs. Be prepared for extreme weather. Just remember that there are always exceptions to the rule, and land ownership is just one piece of the puzzle. During both the spring and fall hunts be safe and acquire positive target identification. Unit 3a/3c - second choice. Great Buffalo viewing areas a couple miles north of park entry, If your Lucky. No motorized vehicles are allowed in BLM wilderness. Mature grouse average between 2 and 4 pounds of succulent white meat and provide delicious table fare. Overview: The world famous, or infamous, Kaibab Mule Deer herd. Dispersed camping is allowed along BLM routes. Southern half of unit is south of Mogollon Rim and has some ponderosa pine forests in the higher elevatio Elk occur throughout unit from high elevation mixed conifer near the Mogollon Rim to the Sunset Mountains just south of Winslow. Areas: As stated earlier, concentrate your efforts in areas with large Ponderosa Pine trees and focus your observation skills on the forest floor. As the fall progresses the deer become more and more secretive. Welcome to the board. This is a large area, so scouting will be beneficial. Outdoor Hub, LLC (d/b/a Carbon Media Group), 30800 Telegraph Rd, Suite 1921, Bingham Farms, MI 48025 USA. Look for areas with mixed conifer, aspens, and berry bushes in close proximity. The most common technique for lion hunting in 12A is similar to that used throughout the Rim country in Arizona. Salt licks are a great attractant for deer and provide the same opportunity as waterholes. Although 12A/12B is not known for its record breaking antelope bucks, hunt success has typically been around 40% for archery and 100% for rifle. The Grand Canyon National Park is not open to hunting. 661 leftover tags for a reason. These units are specifically managed for wildlife values other than elk, and an established elk population is not desirable. Overview: Desert bighorn sheep were eliminated from Unit 12B in the early 1900s probably due to diseases they received from interacting with domestic sheep. Make sure that you can access the area before taking the shot. Included in these hunts are bull only, antlerless and even 275 any-elk tags. The majority of elk in this unit are located on National Forest lands in the southern part of the unit. If old man winter has not yet shown his face follow the suggestions given for the early hunt and good luck. During December, sheep are generally found at lower elevations on the talus slopes below the steep cliff faces. The most common technique for lion hunting in Unit 12 is similar to that used throughout the Rim country in Arizona. No motor vehicles are allowed in the Paria Canyon/Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area. Some lions have been harvested incidental to these other activities. The Grand Canyon National Park is not open to hunting. I plan on going up there to scout sometime soon but was wondering if anyone has seen elk up there. Areas: The Buckskin Mountains in the central portion of the unit contains the highest densities of deer and is best to hunt after mid-October. Concentrate your efforts in areas with waterholes (not necessarily on the water), as the plateau is often dry at this time of the year. Hunters who. These early hunts can be difficult because the deer are typically located in areas of formidable cover and are not easily located or glassed. Anyone drawing a 16A elk tag should be prepared to work hard on both scouting and hunting trips. Areas: Pronghorn in House Rock Valley generally tend to be located within 6 to 7 miles of the base of the Kaibab Plateau. This squirrel is most active early in the morning and just prior to dark and is always associated with Ponderosa Pines. Lost Canyon Hunts. If I draw a 12A deer tag I will be there around Labor Day. "Give 100% in everything you do, unless you are donating blood.". Many come with visions of 32 wide racks with multiple points per side, still others are happy with a tender yearling forkhorn. Once the location of turkeys has been determined getting up early, hours before first light, is critical. This is the classic western mule deer hunt. The large canyons and rocky areas that form the edges of the Kaibab plateau, both on the east and west side of the plateau, are likely areas to locate lion sign. Some bighorns have also been taken from the north rim of the Paria Canyon and near spring sources along the Vermilion Cliffs. In the last couple of years, only a few elk have been spotted along the 12A/12B/12BW boundary on the west side of the Kaibab Plateau. The Arizona Big Game Application Deadline for Elk is 11:59 P.M. (Arizona Time) Feb 14, 2023 Our online/print magazine has everything in one location: Application info, draw details and odds, fees, hunter requirements, point structure, age restrictions, youth information, weapon restrictions, other tag opportunities, hunt planning and much more. Over-the-counter elk seasons are described in the 2014 pronghorn antelope and elk regulations. Be prepared for remote camping as the only amenities during the spring hunt are at Jacob Lake and in Fredonia. Create a free account to read the rest of this terrain note! Learn More. The nature of early archery hunts dictates that most successful hunters will need to be physically fit enough to hike 3-5 miles a day in terrain ranging from 4800-7800 feet in elevation. On the ever in demand 12A late hunt, pray (if religious) for snow. Be sure to make note of the extreme temperatures as these often pose the greatest risk to hunters. If the deer are low and you glass enough it will pay off. The premium late season rut hunts in Unit 12A-East have the highest success rates on big mule deer, but lots of huge bucks have been taken in the early rifle and archery hunts. Glassing from the slopes of the Kaibab plateau can give you a higher vantage point. Bring binoculars and spotting scopes. While calling can sometimes be productive, the most successful technique is more similar to archery hunting mule deer. AS a reminder: Dont stand really close to edge, the sandstone/ granite crumbles with very little weight or movement, you dont want to see the bottom or top, depending on which way your falling on the way down. According to Arizona Game and Fish, Hunt No. The Kaibab uplift extends into Utah about 15 miles, so a big bull might wander to the south and spend summer up in the high country (the Kaibab runs for 60 miles above 8000 ft and down at the GC park boundary it's over 9000). Use common sense; dont take shortcuts as they often take a lot longer than the more sensible route. On the Kaibab Plateau the bird has a very restricted range occupying mixed conifer habitat types near the south end of the Kaibab National Forest and is also found in the Grand Canyon National Park North Rim. The Kaibab has supplied many happy hunting experiences in the past and will hopefully continue to do so for generations to come. This unit is not known for producing large bulls, though elk in the 300-inch or larger range are occasionally taken. See all stats but the last 2 years with a free account! The Kaibab Squirrel is a subspecies of the Aberts Squirrel which is found only on the Kaibab Plateau, Mount Logan, and Mount Trumbull. So yes its possible, but not likely. The Paria Plateau in eastern 12B has the lowest density of deer and is not part of the migratory herds from the Kaibab Plateau or the Paunsaugunt. Since 2007 an increase in the number of squirrels observed has taken place, with the advent of more favorable environmental variables we are seeing a corresponding increase in the squirrel population. On a 12A early hunt, once again, dont bother with pinyon/juniper habitat types unless it has snowed. Walking and stalking in areas determined by scouting to hold bachelor herds of bucks can be exciting and productive. Areas: It may be hard to believe but the likelihood of running into an older age class buck, as near as the author can tell, is just about equal almost anywhere on the plateau. Arizona Unit 8 Elk Hunting. Older age "mature" bulls are taken on a regular basis. Areas around Crystal Springs, Sourdough Well, and along the 610 rd near the National Park Boundary provide the best opportunity for finding the often secretive Blue Grouse. Forest road 68G accesses Tule Mesa, and forest road 68 access the Pine Mountain Wilderness. At the time, the local WM told me that the local ranchers will "dispose" of any elk they find out there because elk compete with cattle for winter feed. Also, Jacobs Lake is about 30 minutes from the canyon and a great spot to camp. Also, before the hunt begins, study topo maps and enlist the aid of others who have hunted the area before. Huge bucks, forkhorns, and even does have been the objects of desire for hunters in this unit. There is also a small herd that lives just south of Fredonia in the grassland/ low shrub density areas. . BLM road 1065 runs north from U.S. Hwy 89A to U.S. Hwy 89 in Utah between the Buckskin Mountains and the Paria Plateau. Four-wheel drive, chains, shovels, and winches can keep you hunting instead of being stuck for a day. Finally, remember that you could be sitting in the office and enjoy the opportunity to get away and take part in the oldest most admirable sport there is. Arizona is landlocked, and its terrain is comprised of deep canyons, high- and low-elevation deserts, many natural rock formations, and volcanic mountain ranges. Major Cities and Towns in or Near Game Management Unit and Nearest Gas, Food, and Lodging The Kaibab Plateau ranges from 6,000' to 9,200'; vegetation consists of ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, and aspen. Elk seasons are described in the pronghorn antelope and elk regulations. By this time of year the deer are visiting water in the dark. In the last couple of years, only a few elk have been spotted and harvested in the vicinity of Mile and a Half Lake south to Franks Lake, on the west side of the Kaibab Plateau. Update: For the past few years, bison have been seen near Wall Lake, as well as along Forest Service Roads 219B, 223, 270, and 610. The Kaibab Plateau ranges from 6,000' to 9,200'; vegetation consists of ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, and aspen. Phone us at 928-713-4329 with any questions you may have. All off-highway vehicles must display a current OHV decal and a street legal registration if operated on a county road. Hunters obtaining an elk tag should be aware that this unit has few elk and is considered a limited opportunity hunt. These early hunts can be difficult because the deer are typically located in areas of formidable cover and are not easily located or glassed. Check for current or recent wildfires in this area. Current data indicates that buck:doe ratios are excellent. No off-road travel by motor vehicles is allowed. Look for areas with mixed conifer, aspens, and berry bushes in close proximity. During the cooler months, elk will occasionally move south to the Kaibab from southern Utah. Also, before the hunt begins, study topo maps and enlist the aid of others who have hunted the area before. Less pressure o grow big? If you are fortunate enough to draw one of the most sought after deer tags in the United States come to the Kaibab with realistic expectations. Grouse often flush at close range in thick cover so be prepared for quick shooting. Hunters interested in purchasing an elk tag should be aware that this unit has few elk and is considered a limited opportunity hunt. This herd generally varies from 15 to 30 animals, depending on movement between 13A and Utah. This exotic game bird, native to the Middle East, was introduced into various areas in Arizona. Note: 12BW is the entire portion of 12B that is west of BLM road 1065 (House Rock Valley/ Coyote Valley Road), excluding the Paria Plateau. As turkeys fly off the roost in the early pre-dawn, often the most active period of the day, they may provide a hunter the best opportunity to call in a wary old longbeard. Are you an outfitter, hunting guide, game processor or local hotel? From the East: U.S. Hwy 89A
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