Archery Mule Deer in Southern Arizona!

DeadEye2327 · May 22, 2017

Hi everyone, I was just looking for a little input on a place where I can go archery mule deer hunting in Region 5, I know there are many so to be more specific I'm the kind of guy to hike miles into a spot if it means I can get away from all other hunters. So if you have an idea where I can do a successful back country hunt please let me know. Whether it's a drawn hunt or OTC (Sept, Nov, and Dec), either will work but preferably a OTC September hunt. Not asking for anyone secret spot unless of course you want to give that away

I'm just looking for a good Unit or area to start scouting, again preferably a place that's not very accessible and holds a somewhat decent amount of deer. I'm thinking on checking out units 36a, 30b, 33, and 27. I'm located in Tucson, AZ so the closer the better but anywhere in region 5 works. I'll take any advice at all! Thank you!

BOHNTR · May 24, 2017

Not too sure about a true 'back-country' style hunt but there are definitely some options near you that offer good archery mule deer hunting.

The problem with the time of year you want to hunt (September), coupled with the area (near Tucson) is that many mule deer are still growing their antlers during that time-frame. Additionally, you'll be in some HOT weather, as the mule deer tend to live at the lower elevations rather than the higher (Coues) country. There are a few options in 27 but they are limited, IMO.

If you're willing to archery hunt in the Dec/Jan time-frame, I would definitely look into unit 33. If you are, I can send you some basic information that should help.

BOHNTR )))---------->

DeadEye2327 · May 26, 2017

LAST EDITED ON May-26-17 AT 10:44AM (MST)[p]Thank you! If you could send me any info that'd be great and I think your right on, I've been to unit 33 and saw at least 6 coues deer and 1 mulie in one day but I completely forgot about that spot. It's definitely something I want to go back and check out so please do send me some information, the only issue with 33 the last time we went was there was a decent number of hunters but that seems to be a common theme out here. Lastly I will most likely buy the Over The Counter tag for Sept-august and it lasts throughout the December hunt but I won't be able to hunt very much although I'm sure I'll find a couple days to get out so the December hunt is still an option. Never been to 27 but i'd love to know more,thanks again for the input!