Quick Tips
- Some steep, rough terrain is conducive to glassing
- Much of the terrain is rugged
- Hunters should be in good shape
- Quail inhabit lowlands
- Waterfowl hunting in the north part of Lake Pleasant
- Javelina live in much of the unit
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
On The Ground
Steep and rough desert country in central Arizona. This unit has limited road access and includes part of the Weaver Mountains and three wilderness areas. Public access is good. Mule deer numbers are fairly stable, but are decreasing slightly.
The state holds no elk or antelope hunting seasons in this unit. Expect to see people in the southern half because it's close to Phoenix. Bowhunters can hunt bucks during the rut in the late season. Hunters should be in good shape because much of the area is remote and rugged. A youth rifle season in October is uncrowded because the state issues few tags.
Terrain
A lot of broken, rocky terrain is steep and rough. Some areas have few roads. Three wilderness areas allow for foot or horseback traffic only.
Roughly 755 square miles
88.5% public land
Elevations from about 1,400-7,000 feet
Vegetation
Some ponderosa pine forests and pinyon/juniper woods are located in the high country. In lower elevations, the terrain is desert with palo verde trees and cactus. Saguaro cactus grow in large areas.
Access
Part of the Prescott National Forest is in the north end, where dirt roads provide good public access. Most land is controlled by the BLM or the state. Some private property restricts access.
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended in stormy weather
Roads are limited in much of the area
Three wilderness areas with no vehicles allowed
Expect strenuous hikes
Camping and Lodging
Hunters may camp on almost all public property and can find lodging in Prescott, Wickenburg, Surprise, Black Canyon City and Cordes Junction. Horsethief Basin Recreation Area in Lake Pleasant Regional Park has a developed campground.
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