Quick Tips
- Typical climate is hot
- Hunt near water
- Carry plenty of water
- Dress in layers as temperatures fluctuate greatly
- Bring a shotgun for quail and incredible dove hunting
- Waterfowl hunting can be good
- Hunting east of the Mohawk Mountains is largely prohibited and access is only granted on official business
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 145"-155" | 160"+ |
On The Ground
Except for bands of land along the edges, this unit is composed of the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range in the southwestern corner of Arizona near Yuma. Desert bighorn sheep hunting is excellent in three subunits, while desert mule deer hunting is difficult.
There are low numbers of mule deer, yet some of the best dove hunting in the state. Be prepared for a challenging sheep hunt that has the possibility of being very rewarding.
Terrain
Mostly flat and rocky with small, rugged mountain ranges. Most of the unit is occupied by Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range and includes Mohawk, Copper, Gila and Tinajas Altas mountains.
Roughly 3,442 square miles
91.8% public land
Elevations from 86 feet along the Colorado River near Yuma to 3,156 feet on Sheep Mountain
Strenuous hiking in rocky desert mountains
Large washes run throughout the unit
Vegetation
Several species of cactus and desert scrub cover much of the desolate unit, which is barren in places. Riparian plants grow along the Colorado River. Creosote, palo verde, ironwood and saguaro cactus grow in drainages and on low mountains.
Access
Most of the unit is open to public hunting. The Air Force allows hunting on much of the Goldwater Range but requires hunters to apply for a permit. Other land is managed by the U.S. Marine Corps, the BLM and the state.
Some areas are rugged, hiking is difficult
Hunting areas within the Goldwater Range is allowed with access approval
The Air Force publishes information about access to the Goldwater Range
Some of the BMGR is off limits to hunters
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp along dirt roads on BLM and state property. Lodging is in Yuma, Wellton/Tacna, Dateland, Gila Bend and Ajo.
Commercial RV parks in Yuma, Wellton, and Dateland
Coyote Howl Campground in Why has showers but no RV hookups
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