If you thought New Year’s Day came up fast, you’d better get ready now for the fast-approaching February 8 deadline for Arizona’s elk and antelope tags.
Mentioning Arizona among a group of engaged hunters is sure to spark conversation about the giant bull elk and buck antelope that bring so much notoriety and attention to the state. And, to add good news, the extreme drought that has stricken the West appears to have lessened its grip on Arizona since the 2021 fall monsoon season dropped generous amounts of rain nearly statewide. Due to the improved range conditions, it is safe to say optimism for antler growth on elk and horn growth for antelope is at a 5-year high.
How the Arizona Draw Works
Arizona’s limited-entry big-game tags are allotted through a bonus point draw process. Within this system, 50% of tags available for any given hunt are allotted to the applicant with the most points. This is referred to as the bonus pass pool. The remaining 50% are allotted to those whom apply but are not awarded a tag on the max-points bonus pool. Within this pool your name will be entered into the draw once for each bonus point you possess for that species.
This application system is a favorite among the WTA consulting team because it provides guaranteed permits for those with the highest number of points, but also allows others the chance to draw a once-in-a-lifetime type of tag the first year they apply.
2022 Elk Forecast
As previously mentioned, the outlook for antler growth in 2022 is exceptional. The coming season should offer tag holders an opportunity to hunt the truly giant bulls for which Arizona is known. It must be noted that the quality of Arizona’s top-tier units is world-class and for this reason many of Arizona’s other units DO NOT receive the recognition they deserve. Many of the units considered B or C grade in Arizona offer exceptional hunting, especially when you hunt with a knowledgeable outfitter. These lesser Arizona units would be considered top-tier units in other states. These sleeper hunts/units have produced a pile of bulls in the 320–340″ class with a number of 400″+ inch bulls going home with WTA clients. The best part, they can typically be drawn with 3 points at a 95%+ success level.
2022 Antelope Forecast
Drawing an antelope tag in Arizona is like winning the lottery. Every unit in the state can produce a Boone & Crockett trophy, and has in the past. Overall antelope densities are low when compared to a place like Wyoming which limits the total tag numbers, specifically rifle tags. So here’s my tip of the day: I strongly advise you to apply for archery tags in Arizona due to the total tag allotments, the liberal seasons, and the fact that bucks tend to be docile early in the season making them approachable with archery equipment.
Don’t sit on the sidelines for another year, watching your hunting buddies build valuable points and draw world-class tags in Arizona. The WTA TAGS consulting team is here to ensure that you’re at the forefront of the West’s greatest hunting opportunities to meet your personal goals.
Call today to speak with a consultant about the 2022 Arizona elk and antelope draws. Dial 800-755-8247 or click here to email. Either way, let’s get going before the February 8 deadline.
