Arizona’s Game Management Unit 22 sits in the rugged Mogollon Rim country of north-central Arizona, offering some of the state’s most remote and rewarding big game hunting. This is true wilderness—expect steep canyons, thick timber, and limited access. Horses, mules, pack goats, or serious backpacking are essential for getting in, hunting effectively, and packing out game. Low hunter pressure in the backcountry rewards those willing to go deep.
Unit 22 splits into North and South, with the North often providing more tag availability for elk while both deliver quality animals in low-pressure zones.
Last Updated: January 2026 (Based on recent draw results and AZGFD trends. Draw odds, seasons, and populations shift annually—Always verify with one of our consultants, or azgfd.com.)
Elk Hunts in Unit 22
Unit 22 remains a strong choice for quality elk hunting, with good densities and remote areas that produce solid bulls, especially during rut phases or late seasons.
- Draw Reality Update: While some late archery or muzzleloader options in Unit 22 North/South have been drawable with moderate points (e.g., 4–12 for residents in recent years), premium early rifle rut hunts (especially non-resident) now often require higher points—typically 11–20+ for South and even more for North in top codes. The “without many bonus points” era has tightened as demand grows.
- North generally offers better tag numbers than South.
- Late rifle seasons continue to shine for low-pressure trophy potential.
Contact us for a personalized point analysis and application strategy—we track the latest draw odds and can help maximize your chances.
Black Bear Hunts
Excellent opportunities for trophy color-phase black bears (cinnamon, blonde, etc.) that score into the books. Combine with other species where allowed for efficient trips.
Coues Deer Hunts
One of Arizona’s top units for quality Coues whitetail. Archery hunts often pair well with black bear or turkey. Recent post-fire regrowth (from burns in the 2010s–2020s) plus good moisture cycles in recent years have boosted feed and visibility in many areas—making the last few years some of the stronger seasons.
Mountain Lion Hunts
Consistently one of Arizona’s highest-harvest units for mountain lion. Great choice for houndsmen or spot-and-stalk hunters.
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
Unit 22 holds Rocky Mountain bighorn populations with periodic tags. These are extremely competitive (often max points or high random luck required), but they offer world-class trophy potential in rugged rim country. Worth building points for long-term.
Over-the-Counter Options While Building Points
Tired of the draw wait? Arizona offers OTC archery tags for mule deer (and some elk/deer combos elsewhere). Use these to stay in the field while accruing bonus points for Unit 22 premium hunts.
Key Application Deadlines (2026 Seasons):
We offer fully outfitted hunts in Unit 22—leveraging horses, terrain knowledge, and recent habitat intel. If you’re eyeing this unit for elk, Coues, bear, lion, or sheep, let’s discuss your point level, goals, and a custom plan. Drop us a line or book a strategy call— we’ll help turn applications into boots-on-the-ground success.
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Trying to draw a tag in Arizona? Consider Unit 22.
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