First time elk hunting in AZ 6B

[KTK]

Hello everyone,
Just looking for any other advice in this unit? I have driven up 4 times looking around but having a hard time visualizing how the December rifle hunt will look there. I have read about being up early and looking lower than normal, down in the canyons. So far I have seen some places northeast of Sycamore Canyon that look decent but not sure if I am wasting time there? I have also been advised multiple times be ready to hike, which shouldn't be much of a problem.
Again, any direction would be appreciated.
Also, I have been told staying south of Turkey Butte is probably best? I am hoping to go check that out here next week?

 

[HikeHunt61]

Go to AZ G&F website- they have a lovely description of elk hunting in your unit.

 

[sremim]

Very, very tough hunt. Some people get lucky and stumble across elk in easy to get to areas, but not the majority. Alot of people don't even see an elk on the hunt. I've been on it numerous times. Turkey Butte gets hit hard the first weekend, including south of there. Get in the canyons and on the ridgetops away from the main roads. Alot of the canyons are pretty steep/deep.

 

[Jerry]

Very, very tough hunt. Some people get lucky and stumble across elk in easy to get to areas, but not the majority. Alot of people don't even see an elk on the hunt. I've been on it numerous times. Turkey Butte gets hit hard the first weekend, including south of there. Get in the canyons and on the ridgetops away from the main roads. Alot of the canyons are pretty steep/deep.

Very very true- you’ve gotten some good recon info.. Glass glass glass from canyon tops & sides- more time glassing & less time hiking/walking is the key ? in my opinion anyway. It’s not an easy hunt or pack out either.
Stay out all day & glass ! You could get lucky ? & drop a good bull. Be out there hunting at 1 st light ?!
Best Wishes & Happy Hunting !
Jerry Gold In Windsor, Colorado ?

 

[Moe]

Man, those late canyon elk hunts can be ass kickers.

 

[azbiggame]

Great advice from above. Open country will have majority of HUNTERS ? Hunt draws/canyons that shade up 1st in evenings. Water near a plus ... be prepared to back pack elk meat. Possibly a tough physical hunt. Good Luck. Bruce & SilverGrand

 

[Red Rabbit]

Keep track of the weather and possible heavy snow that will close access. There are only a few access roads. I recall one season where hunters had to abandon their travel tralers until spring. A hunt a few years ago had heavy snow and hardly anyone got in.