Quick Tips
- Scout before the season to learn the unit
- Numerous javelina
- Hunters may use shotguns to hunt quail and doves
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
On The Ground
This unit includes Phoenix and most of the metropolitan area as well as some hills and lowlands. Developed areas are closed to hunting, but bowhunting mule deer and javelina is permitted away from buildings as well as in the bigger Unit 26M, which mostly surrounds this unit.
Rural unit found near greater Phoenix area. Hunters who know this unit will find a few mature desert mule deer and numerous javelina. Hunters must be aware of current regs in order to know where it is lawful and unlawful to hunt in this highly populated unit.
Terrain
Mostly urban landscape with low desert terrain and foothills. Several braided washes intersect the terrain. McDowell Mountain Regional Park and McDowell Sonoran Preserve have peaks that rise a couple thousand feet above the surface.
Roughly 1,257 square miles
16.5% public land
Elevations from 990-3,900 feet
Vegetation
Lower Sonoran desert with creosote, mesquite and cactus.
Access
Access is limited across most of the unit. Archers may hunt in McDowell Sonoran Preserve and four parks—Lake Pleasant, White Tank Mountains, McDowell Mountain and Estrella Mountain. No hunting is allowed within a quarter-mile of an occupied structure, developed picnic area, developed campground, shooting range, occupied building, boat ramp or golf course.
Camping and Lodging
Hunters may camp in only a few places, and there are no public campgrounds. RV parks, private campgrounds, hotels and motels are available in the greater Phoenix area.
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