From Ponderosas to Saguaros
Much like its renowned bear hunts, Arizona provides a unique setting for pursuing these big cats. Hunt the entire state, north to south.
Long Hunting Seasons
With generally long seasons and over-the-counter tags, the opportunity to hunt mountain lions is more accessible than in many other states.
Hound Hunting
Success requires dedication, skill, and often, the expertise of seasoned houndsmen. Our OI Endorsed outfitters fit the bill perfectly.The Apex Predator of the Southwest
Why Hunt Mountain Lions in Arizona?
High mountain lion population
Arizona's healthy mountain lion population, coupled with its vast and varied terrain, makes it a premier destination for this type of hunt. The state's management practices ensure a sustainable population, offering hunters a realistic chance at encountering a mature lion.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) manages the state's mountain lion population through a combination of regulated hunting, harvest monitoring, and research. Hunting plays a crucial role in managing lion populations, helping to minimize human-wildlife conflicts and maintain a healthy balance within the ecosystem.
Mandatory harvest reporting and physical inspection of harvested lions provide the AZGFD with valuable data on population dynamics, age structure, and overall health. This information is used to set harvest thresholds and ensure the long-term sustainability of Arizona's mountain lion population.
Statewide opportunities
Mountain lions can be found throughout Arizona, from the high-elevation forests to the lower desert regions. The state is divided into various Game Management Units (GMUs), and these are further grouped into mountain lion management zones. Each zone has a harvest threshold, and once that limit is reached, the zone closes to hunting for the remainder of the season. Popular and productive areas often include:
- Central Arizona: The rugged mountains and canyons in central Arizona hold a significant number of mountain lions.
- Southeastern Arizona: The "Sky Island" mountain ranges in the southeast provide excellent habitat.
- Northern Arizona: The vast forests and plateaus of northern Arizona also support healthy lion populations.
- Fort Apache Indian Reservation: Known for its quality big game hunting, the Fort Apache Indian Reservation offers guided mountain lion hunts.
Tracking snow is not mandatory
Pursuing these intelligent and powerful predators offers a unique challenge. Their solitary and nocturnal nature makes them difficult to locate, and the hunt often involves long days of tracking through demanding terrain. The thrill of the chase, the partnership with skilled hounds, and the potential to harvest a magnificent animal are what draw hunters to Arizona year after year.
Trophy Quality
Seeking a Mature Tom
Arizona is known for producing large, mature mountain lions. A trophy-class tom will typically have a large, heavy skull and a long, muscular body. While the focus for many hunters is on a mature male, any mountain lion harvested in Arizona represents a significant accomplishment due to the challenging nature of the hunt. Many of our Arizona outfitters and guides adhere to a "Tom-Only" policy to further enhance the conservation and management of the species.
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Hunting Methods
A Traditional Approach
The primary and most effective method for hunting mountain lions in Arizona is with the use of trained hounds. This traditional approach leverages the exceptional tracking abilities of dogs to locate and trail lions, often over long distances and across rugged landscapes. Once a lion is "treed" or "bayed up" in rocks, the hunter can approach for a shot.
Hounds: The success of a mountain lion hunt heavily relies on the quality and experience of the hounds and their handler. Skilled houndsmen can often determine the size and sex of a lion based on its track, and the dogs possess the endurance and determination to stay on a trail for hours. This method also allows for selective harvesting, as hunters can often assess the lion before making a decision.
Spot and Stalk/Calling: While less common and significantly more challenging, some hunters attempt to spot and stalk mountain lions, particularly in open terrain or during periods of snow. Calling, using predator calls that mimic prey animals, can also be employed to attract a lion, though success rates are generally lower than with hounds.
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Why Choose an OI Endorsed Outfitter for Your Arizona Mountain Lion Hunt?
Hunting cougars in Arizona's diverse terrain – from ponderosa pine forests to saguaro cactus-covered canyons – is a remarkable experience. With an OI Endorsed Outfitter, you're not just booking a hunt; you're investing in a well-planned, expertly guided adventure designed to maximize your enjoyment and chances of harvesting a mature Arizona mountain lion. Our endorsed outfitters are:- Thoroughly Vetted: We've done the homework for you, ensuring our partners meet stringent standards for professionalism, ethics, and success.
- Highly Experienced: Benefit from guides who live and breathe Arizona cougar hunting, understanding mountain lion behavior, prime locations, and effective techniques.
- Dedicated to Your Success: Our outfitters are passionate about providing a memorable experience and work tirelessly to put you in the best position for a successful harvest.
- Knowledgeable of Local Regulations: Navigate Arizona's specific hunting regulations, including quotas and unit closures, with expert guidance.
- Focused on Fair Chase & Ethical Hunting: Hunt with confidence, knowing you're partnering with professionals who respect wildlife and uphold the highest ethical standards.
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Your Guided Arizona Mountain Lion Adventure Awaits
All hunts are conducted in accordance with Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations. Licensing and tag fees are typically not included in outfitter packages unless specified. Success rates can vary based on conditions, hunter ability, and the inherent challenges of fair chase hunting.
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