The Arizona sheep and deer deadline is quickly approaching. Every year, we all hope we’re one of the lucky ones to draw one of these once-in-a-lifetime tags. This is our last big push for the 2023 application season here at WTA TAGS, and we rate Arizona as a must-apply state for sheep, mule deer, and coues deer. There are world-class animals in Arizona for all three of these species.
The deadline to apply is June 6. Do not wait—apply today!
Sheep
Anyone looking to ever have a chance to draw a coveted desert sheep tag should be applying in the state of Arizona. There will be 15 non-resident tags available this year and every unit in the state can produce a B&C ram. Last year the success rate was nearly 100% across hunts, so drawing the tag becomes the hardest part. The Arizona Game & Fish, along with several other organizations, have done an excellent job with habitat, water projects, and predator control to help grow this sheep population over the last few decades. In 2023, a total of 156 desert bighorn tags will be allocated across the state.
If you have already harvested your desert and are looking for a Rocky, Arizona is producing some of the bigger rams in the West. The biggest ram killed last year was just over 191″, and 170″ rams are common.
Mule Deer
Hunting big mule deer in Arizona can be done in many ways, from over-the-counter archery tags to drawing the famous AZ Strip or Kaibab Plateau. A few people will draw these once-in- a-lifetime tags with a few points, but it is likely that most of us will wait a lifetime to draw one of these tags. For those serious about hunting a big mule deer one day, you should always have your name in the hat for a tag. This is a must-apply state if you are looking for a chance at a true giant.
I was lucky enough to draw an archery tag on the Kaibab last year and had a great hunt. This hunt is not easy and even though I did not kill a deer, I saw world-class deer that any hunter would have gladly taken home. Anyone who is looking for a chance at killing a deer of a lifetime with their bow should consider this hunt. If drawn, I would highly recommend hiring an outfitter unless you have ample time to scout.
Coues Deer
These deer are known as the “Grey Ghost” for a reason. The places they call home will test even the best glassers on the planet. With draw odds far easier than the top-end mule deer tags, these hunts should not be overlooked. The success on these Arizona coues hunts is extremely high, particularly with experienced outfitter. If want to chase this elusive deer and do not have the desire to travel to Mexico, Arizona is a must-apply state.
Youth Deer
Arizona has some of the best youth hunts for deer in the West. When your child draws a deer tag, it’s good for mule deer or coues deer. The odds of drawing a deer tag last year were around 1 in 10 without any bonus points. As soon as your child is 10 years old, you should be applying them in Arizona for everything. The application costs are reduced, especially through the WTA TAGS Kids Free Program. If they draw a tag, it will be a hunt neither of you will ever forget. The points they build now will help them draw some amazing tags later in life as well.
Again, June 6 is the last day to apply for sheep and deer tags in Arizona. If you are already building points for these species, don’t forget to apply this year and keep adding to those valuable points. If you haven’t been applying, you should start. Either way, give WTA TAGS a call today and let us help. Reach us Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (MST) at 1-800-755-8247, or drop us an email.
