High-Elevation Desert and Mountain Bear Country
Arizona might be known for its dry deserts and scorching heat, but hunting the Arizona black bear here is the ultimate challenge due to the physical demands and difficulty involved. The steep and rugged hills in the higher-elevation regions of the state create a challenging terrain that makes finding and hunting bears a physically demanding and often frustrating endeavor. From rugged canyons to mixed conifer forests tucked above the saguaro line, Arizona’s terrain creates unique bear habitat and a hunt that blends glassing, stamina, and remote backcountry skills. If you’re looking for a desert-state bear hunt with mountain-country flavor, Arizona delivers.
Season Structure and Licensing
Arizona offers both spring and fall black bear seasons, with some units open in August and others later in the year depending on game management zone. The first bear hunt of the year typically occurs from late March through the end of April, as bears emerge from their dens, making it an excellent opportunity for hunters. Some units open for hunting in early August. Seasons close early if pending sow quota limits are met, so hunters must call the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s bear hotline daily to check the status of their unit. A valid hunting license and bear tag are required, and tags are available over the counter in most open units. Hunters may only harvest one bear per calendar year.
Legal Methods of Take
Hunters may use centerfire rifles, handguns, muzzleloaders, bows, and crossbows to pursue bears. Baiting is not allowed in Arizona. Hunting with hounds is permitted in some units and seasons, but it requires a separate permit and following additional regulations. Predator calling is another method used during certain seasons, particularly in spring when hunters can attract bears by imitating the sounds of fawns. Spot-and-stalk is the most popular and accessible method, relying heavily on optics, terrain, and patience. The anticipation and challenges of locating and taking aim to shoot bear prey add to the intricacies and emotions of the hunt. Getting a bear within bow range, typically around 35 yards, is a thrilling challenge that requires advanced stalking techniques and precise shot placement.
Where to Hunt Bears in Arizona
Arizona’s black bear populations are concentrated in the higher country of the central and southeastern regions, with each hunt unit offering unique challenges and opportunities. Selecting a few spots based on thorough scouting and observations of bear movements, feeding patterns, and water sources is crucial for a successful hunt:
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Units 6A and 6B (Mogollon Rim): Known for its dense cover, canyon systems, and strong bear numbers. Glassing and hiking drainages are key here.
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Unit 23: Offers both spring and fall opportunities, with bears frequenting oak ridges and mesquite-choked canyons. This area also hosts coues deer, adding to the diversity of wildlife.
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Units 27 and 28: Located near the White Mountains, these units hold rugged backcountry terrain with a combination of alpine meadows and pine-oak forest.
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Unit 35A and 35B (Santa Rita and Patagonia Mountains): Found near the southern border, these units combine desert foothills with productive oak slopes and sycamore drainages.
Bear Behavior and Hunting Tactics
Arizona black bears tend to be solitary and elusive. In fall, they are highly food-focused and often seen foraging for acorns, manzanita berries, or prickly pear cactus fruit, actively eating to build fat reserves before winter. Bears feed on specific food sources like wildflowers and prickly pear cactus, which influences their movements and hunting strategies. Glassing high basins, shaded slopes, and water sources during early morning and evening hours offers the best chance of spotting bears. Waiting patiently and observing your surroundings is crucial to detect any signs of bear activity. Still-hunting along travel corridors and feeding zones can be effective in thicker country. Calling can work in limited circumstances but is less commonly used. The challenge to locate bears in such terrain requires dedication and persistence.
Required Gear and Preparation
Spot-and-stalk bear hunting in Arizona demands top-tier optics. Setting up a camp for accommodations and living arrangements is essential, as it provides necessary shelter and proximity to hunting locations. Using a truck for transporting gear and navigating challenging terrains is crucial for a successful hunt. Binoculars in the 10x to 12x range and a quality spotting scope make the difference when glassing distant ridgelines or thick vegetation. A flat-shooting rifle in .30 caliber or larger is preferred for ethical shot placement at varying distances. Hunters should also carry a rangefinder, trekking poles, and a framed pack for meat hauling. Layered clothing, a GPS or mapping app, and plenty of water are essential in remote and dry terrain. Hard work and dedication in scouting and planning are key to a rewarding bear hunting experience.
Bear Identification and Ethics
It is illegal to harvest cubs or sows with cubs in Arizona. Hunters are responsible for accurately judging gender and ensuring ethical harvest. Additionally, hunters must present the hide, along with proof of sex, to the Game and Fish department within a specified timeframe. Studying behavior, body size, and head-to-ear ratios from a distance can help, though it’s not always easy. Patience and extended observation before taking a shot are key to making a responsible decision.
Reporting Requirements
All successful bear hunters must report their harvest to the Arizona Game and Fish Department within 48 hours. Reporting the harvest is crucial not only for regulatory compliance but also for those interested in the culinary rewards of bear meat. The skull must be presented for inspection and a premolar tooth removed for aging. The tag must be properly attached immediately upon kill and remain affixed during transport. Regulations are strictly enforced, and failure to report or improper tagging can result in penalties.
Conclusion
Hunting black bears in the Copper State is a test of persistence and skill, taking place in one of the most surprising landscapes in the West. Hunting black bears can be extremely difficult due to the challenging terrain and elusive bear behavior. There is also the potential for harvesting a big bear in Arizona. While the desert dominates the image of the state, the high country holds bears, solitude, and an unforgettable hunt for those willing to scout hard, hike deep, and glass patiently. From the Mogollon Rim to the border mountains, Arizona’s bear country rewards careful planning and respect for the rules.
FAQs
Do I need a tag to hunt bears in Arizona?
Yes, a valid hunting license and bear tag are required.
Are there limits on harvesting females?
Yes, each unit has a female harvest limit. Check the hotline daily to ensure the unit is still open.
Can I use bait?
No, baiting is illegal for bear hunting in Arizona.
Are dogs allowed for bear hunting?
Yes, in specific units and with a hound permit. Additional rules apply.
What is the best season to hunt bears?
Fall provides more predictable food-driven movement. The first bear hunt of the season in Arizona, typically in spring, is significant as bears emerge from their dens and can be found near water sources using glassing techniques. Summer is important for pursuing bears as they become more active after winter. Spring hunts also offer good glassing opportunities, and the fall bear hunts extend into late August, coinciding with the opening of archery deer hunts.
What calibers are recommended?
Rifles in .30 caliber or larger are recommended for effective bear hunting.
Where are the best units?
Units 6A, 23, 27, and 35A/B offer strong bear populations and good public land access.
Can non-residents hunt bears in Arizona?
Yes, with a valid non-resident hunting license and tag.
What is required after harvest?
You must report the kill within 48 hours, present the skull for inspection, and submit a tooth for aging.
Are there restrictions on optics or firearms?
No specific restrictions beyond statewide rules, but always confirm with the latest AZGFD regulations.