The highly coveted Unit 5B North hunting unit is located primarily within the expansive Coconino National Forest, a region known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. This area also includes sections of state land and scattered pockets of private land, making it a diverse environment for hunters. What sets 5B North apart is its reputation for offering some of the best trophy big game hunting in Arizona, drawing hunters from across the country who are eager for a shot at world-class elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, black bears, and even bison.
For hunters seeking an exceptional outdoor adventure in Arizona, 5B North is a top choice. The unit’s diverse landscape, abundant wildlife, and reputation for trophy animals make it a prime destination. Whether your focus is on big game or you’re interested in hunting smaller species, this unit offers some of the best opportunities in the state, all within the beautiful and wild terrain of the Coconino National Forest.

Elk Hunting in Unit 5B North Arizona
Unit 5B North, near Flagstaff, AZ, is right in the middle of some of the best elk hunting country in the world.
The unit is particularly famed for its elk hunting, with large, mature bulls roaming the dense forests and open meadows of the Coconino. For those lucky enough to draw a tag, 5B North promises a truly rewarding experience with the potential to harvest trophy-class animals.
Most hunters apply for some of the more well known and Arizona trophy elk units such as Unit 10, Unit 9, Unit 23, Unit 8, Unit 7 West. These are all great places to hunt elk, but it’s pretty tough to draw a tag unless you have a bazillion bonus points.
Every elk unit in Arizona has the potential to produce 360+ bulls. 5B North is no exception.
You also have a much higher chance of drawing an archery elk tag in Unit 5B North than in any other unit. Non residents won’t have to wait for years and years if they apply in Unit 5B North Arizona. Once you draw, get ahold of us and we will hook you up with a GREAT Outfitter.
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Mule Deer Hunting in Unit 5B North
In addition to elk, hunters in this region can also hunt mule deer, as well as pronghorn antelope, which thrive in the more open areas of the unit. There are some GIANT mule deer bucks in Unit 5B North, but there aren’t many of them. We suggest you apply in some other unit. Contact us for more information on where you should put in for Arizona mule deer.
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More Hunting Opportunities in Unit 5B North
Unit 5B North also offers excellent opportunities for hunting other species like black bear, mountain lion, and wild turkey.
The thick forests and rugged terrain provide perfect habitats for these animals, allowing for a variety of hunting experiences within the same unit. Whether you’re following hounds chasing a mountain lion through the canyons or calling in a turkey during the spring season, 5B North is a versatile unit that caters to a range of hunting preferences.
- Trophy black bears live in Unit 5B North, and it’s definitely a good unit to consider for black bear hunting in Arizona.
- Unit 5B North is an excellent unit to think about for an Arizona mountain lion hunt. Mountain lions can be hunted by spot and stalk or varmint calling but far and away your best bet for success on a mountain lion is to hire an experienced houndsman.
To maximize your success in Arizona Unit 5B North, pre-season scouting is essential.
Familiarizing yourself with the terrain and understanding animal patterns will enhance your chances of bagging a trophy. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, Arizona Unit 5B North promises an unforgettable hunting adventure amid breathtaking natural beauty.
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A great post by Russ Meyer on hunting opportunities in Arizona hunting unit 5B North. If you are thinking about applying in Arizona, you should read this post.
If you are thinking about applying in Arizona, you should read this post.