Looking for advice

muleylover · Jan 15, 2015

Hello, going into this years draw for NR elk I have 6 points. Looking for advice or opinions on Rifle elk hunts. Been looking at and applying for unit 9 late. Couple of questions.
1. What kind of chances do I have to draw this year.
2. How does this hunt compare to other late hunts?
3. Should I be looking into any other late hunt units?
Trying to figure out my hunt schedule with some other hunts I should draw in other states. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks

BUTCH · Jan 15, 2015

I'll give you my 2 cents. I personally believe that unit 9 is one of our premium units and the fact that your a NR with only 6 BP's, your chances of hunting unit 9 (late) is pretty slim. Once again this is my opinion. Good luck!

sagebrush · Jan 15, 2015

Last year, 6 points had a 46% chance of drawing unit 9 in the bonus pass. One more year and you would be 100%, subject to the 10% non-resident cap. I think 9 would be a good first choice and you could put 10, 8 or 19A as a second choice and for sure draw one of those. Next year, G&F is talking about splitting the non-resident tags between the bonus pass and the 1-2 pass so it will likely take more points to draw any elk tag. This is your year IMO.

muleylover · Jan 15, 2015

Thanks for the input. I have a friend, also NR that has pulled this tag a couple of times with 2-3 points, but he seems to have a horseshoe up his butt when it comes to drawing tags. If you draw a second choice tag in AZ do you lose bonus points? I know the draw is changing a bit next year and not sure if it will be better or worse for me. Thanks for the information so far.

sagebrush · Jan 15, 2015

You lose your points when you draw any tag except loyalty and hunter safety points. The draw system will be tougher for non-residents to draw in the bonus round.

azbiggame · Jan 15, 2015

unit 9 gen. elk can be a very difficult hunt,and usually most n.r. hunters come home empty handed ??? Your hunt partner with past experience here may make the difference,though.Myself,would look to the South of this unit for better results ... Good Luck, Bruce & SilverGrand

muleylover · Jan 16, 2015

Thanks for the input so far. I have been in and around the unit and understand the terrain and have done some research on the pros and cons. Late hunts, busted bulls, terrain, etc. I do understand that getting a tag is no guarantee. I am just looking for a place to have a chance at a good bull. I do have info from my friend that has hunted and if I draw will ask a few favors from folks that know the unit and will be down early to scout for at least a week in advance.