Tooele:
It is NOT how BAD the current system is, but actually how GOOD it is!
You know AZ used to have a 3 year waiting period after you drew an elk tag, right?
After all the time spent investigating the issue here is what came out. Statistically it didn't change anything! Don't remember all the details, but after the hue and cry from some folks about how unfair it was that their friends got tags all the time and they didn't, AZ did try it.
Then they went back.
Bottom line it is about a lot of luck--some got it--and some, like me, don't! And of course statistical probabilities...
Just too darn many applying for a limited amount of tags.
I for one understand your frustration. Heck I've not drawn an AZ mule deer tag in the last 12 years, and before that it was 11 years! I have not personally taken a deer in AZ in the last 25 years. But the reason is I only apply for the AZ Strip and when I got a tag 12 years ago I passed on 36 bucks. My choice. That is the price you pay when you only apply for premium tags!
Same with elk. I've had two AZ bull tags in the last 25 years, and I made the last one (2010) really count (378 2/8 6 X 6 in Unit 6A on a muzzleloader hunt) and since then I only apply for antlerless hunts. Again my choice.
Anyway,I bet if you call AZ G&F employees Amber Munig or Brian Wakeling they could tell you all about the issues associated with a 3 year waiting period.
Bottom line is be CAREFUL what you ask for! Don't try and reinvent the wheel; others have already been there and done that!
Don Martin
Arizona Wildlife Outfitters