Arizona offers exceptional hunting opportunities for non-residents seeking adventure in its diverse landscapes. The Arizona Game and Fish Department manages the state’s wildlife resources and oversees hunting regulations, including those for out-of-state hunters.

Non-resident hunters can purchase an Arizona hunting license for $160, which is valid for a full year and allows hunting of small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, and upland game birds. This license serves as a foundation for pursuing various game species across Arizona’s terrain.

For big game hunts, non-residents must obtain additional permit-tags or non-permit tags, depending on the species and hunting method. These may include over-the-counter archery-only tags for deer or leftover hunt permit-tags for javelina. The Arizona Game and Fish Department conducts regular draw processes for limited-entry hunts, providing non-residents with opportunities to secure coveted tags for species like elk and bighorn sheep.

Eligibility and Requirements

Obtaining an Arizona non-resident hunting license involves meeting specific criteria. The state has established guidelines for residency, age, and hunter education to ensure safe and responsible hunting practices.

Residency Requirements

Nonresidents must prove they do not qualify as Arizona residents to obtain a non-resident hunting license. Arizona defines residents as individuals who have lived in the state for at least six months or meet specific military or student exceptions. Non-resident licenses cost $160 and are valid for one year from the date of purchase. These licenses allow hunting of small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, and upland game birds. Additional tags or stamps are required for big game and migratory birds.

Age Restrictions

Arizona imposes age restrictions on hunting licenses. Hunters must be at least 10 years old to purchase a license. Youth aged 10-17 can obtain a Youth Combination Hunt and Fish license for $5, available to both residents and non-residents. This discounted option encourages young hunters to participate in outdoor activities. Adult non-residents must purchase the full-price license at $160.

Hunter Education

Arizona requires hunters born after January 1, 1961, to complete a certified hunter education course before obtaining a hunting license. Non-residents who have completed a hunter education course in their home state may be eligible for reciprocity. The Arizona Game and Fish Department offers Mentored Hunt Camps for new hunters to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced mentors. These camps provide valuable training in hunting ethics, safety, and conservation principles.

License Types and Options

Arizona offers several license types and options for non-resident hunters. These include general hunting licenses, special licenses for specific groups, and various tags and permits required for different game species.

General Hunting Licenses

Non-resident hunters can purchase a Combination Hunt and Fish license for $160. This license is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, offering excellent value at just 44 cents per day.

It allows hunting of small game, predators, and furbearers. The license also covers fishing in Arizona waters.

For those focused solely on hunting, a General Hunting License is available, though pricing for non-residents may differ from resident rates.

Special Licenses

Arizona provides special licenses for certain groups, including youth and disabled veterans. The Youth Combination Hunt and Fish license is available for $5 for both residents and non-residents aged 10-17.

This license includes a migratory bird stamp. Disabled veterans may be eligible for complimentary licenses, though specific requirements apply.

Pioneer licenses are available for long-term residents but typically do not apply to non-residents.

Tags and Permits

In addition to a basic license, hunters often need specific tags or permits for certain game species. Non-permit hunt tags can be purchased separately for species not requiring a special draw.

A Migratory Bird Stamp, costing $5 for non-residents, is required for hunting various bird species. This stamp, combined with a valid hunting license, allows the take of doves, ducks, geese, and other migratory birds.

For big game like pronghorn or bighorn sheep, hunters must apply for hunt permit-tags. Non-resident fees for these tags are significantly higher than resident fees.

How to Apply for a License

Obtaining an Arizona non-resident hunting license involves several options. Hunters can choose between online and mail application processes, with an auto-renewal feature available for added convenience.

Online Application Process

To apply online, create an AZGFD Portal Account on the Arizona Game & Fish Department website. Use the Customer ID Retrieval Tool if you’ve forgotten your ID. Select the non-resident hunting license type and provide required personal information. Choose desired hunt permit-tags for specific game species. Pay the $160 non-resident license fee plus any additional tag fees using a credit card. Print your temporary license immediately after purchase.

The online system allows for easy selection of additional permits like the federal waterfowl stamp for hunters 16 and older. Review all choices before submitting to ensure accuracy.

Mail Application Process

For mail applications, download and print the form from the AZGFD website. Fill out all required fields legibly, including personal details and license type. Select hunt permit-tags if applying for big game hunts. Calculate total fees, including the $160 non-resident license fee and tag costs.

Send the completed form with a check or money order to the address provided. Processing time for mail applications is longer than online submissions. Expect to receive your physical license and any awarded tags by mail within 2-3 weeks.

License Auto-Renewal

AZGFD offers an auto-renewal option for non-resident licenses. Enroll in this service through your online account. Set up a payment method for automatic annual renewal. The system will process your renewal before the expiration date each year.

Auto-renewal ensures continuous hunting privileges without manual reapplication. You can opt out or update preferences at any time through your account. Remember, while the license renews automatically, hunt permit-tags still require separate applications each season.

Big Game Hunting

Arizona offers exciting big game hunting opportunities for non-resident hunters. The state’s diverse landscapes provide habitats for several prized species. Hunters must navigate a draw system and species-specific regulations to pursue these animals.

Big Game Draw

Non-residents participate in Arizona’s big game draw system to obtain hunt permit-tags. This process allocates tags for deer, elk, pronghorn, and bison. Applications are submitted during specific timeframes, typically months before the hunting season. Points are awarded for unsuccessful applications, improving future draw odds.

The draw system aims to manage wildlife populations and ensure fair distribution of hunting opportunities. Non-residents may face lower tag quotas compared to residents. Some species, like mountain lions, do not require draw tags and can be hunted with over-the-counter tags.

Species-Specific Regulations

Each big game species in Arizona has unique regulations. Deer hunters can pursue both mule deer and white-tailed deer. Elk hunts are highly sought-after, with tags available for different weapons and seasons. Pronghorn hunts offer a chance to pursue this fleet-footed antelope.

Bison hunts are rare but provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Mountain lion hunts have longer seasons but require specific hunting methods. Bag limits, hunting methods, and season dates vary by species and unit. Non-resident hunters must carefully review regulations for their target species and hunting area.

Small Game and Bird Hunting

Arizona offers diverse hunting opportunities for small game and bird species. Hunters can pursue a variety of upland game birds, migratory birds, and small game animals across the state’s varied landscapes.

Upland Game Birds

Quail hunting is popular in Arizona, with three species available: Gambel’s, scaled, and Mearns’. Gambel’s quail are found in desert areas, while scaled quail prefer grasslands. Mearns’ quail inhabit oak-grassland regions in southeastern Arizona.

Chukar partridge can be hunted in rocky, steep terrain in the northwestern part of the state. Blue grouse are found in high-elevation coniferous forests, primarily in eastern Arizona.

Pheasant hunting is limited, with some opportunities on wildlife areas. Hunters must check regulations for specific locations and seasons.

Migratory Game Birds

Dove hunting is a favorite pursuit, with mourning and white-winged doves abundant in many areas. The early September season opener is particularly popular.

Waterfowl hunting opportunities exist for ducks and geese. Key species include mallards, pintails, and Canada geese. Hunting is best along rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Band-tailed pigeons can be hunted in mountainous areas during a short fall season. Sandhill crane hunting is available in limited areas through a permit draw system.

Small Game Species

Cottontail rabbits are common throughout Arizona, offering year-round hunting in most areas. Desert cottontails inhabit lower elevations, while mountain cottontails are found at higher elevations.

Tree squirrels, including Abert’s and red squirrels, can be hunted in forested regions. Gray squirrels are less common but found in some areas.

Jackrabbits are classified as non-game species and can be hunted year-round without a license. They are abundant in desert and grassland habitats.

Predator hunting for coyotes and foxes is popular, with no bag limits in most areas. Bobcats can also be hunted, but a hunt permit-tag is required.

Conservation and Wildlife Management

Arizona’s non-resident hunting license program plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and wildlife management. The funds generated support habitat preservation and population control initiatives.

Importance of Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts in Arizona focus on protecting diverse ecosystems and wildlife species. The Arizona Game and Fish Department uses revenue from hunting licenses to fund research, habitat restoration, and species monitoring programs. These initiatives help maintain healthy wildlife populations and preserve natural habitats for future generations.

Non-resident hunters contribute significantly to these efforts through license fees and tags. The department allocates these funds to on-the-ground conservation projects, including:

• Habitat improvement
• Wildlife surveys
• Disease management
• Predator control

These programs ensure sustainable wildlife populations and maintain ecological balance across Arizona’s varied landscapes.

Wildlife Habitat and Population Control

Hunting serves as a vital tool for wildlife population management in Arizona. Carefully regulated hunting helps prevent overpopulation of certain species, which can lead to habitat degradation and increased human-wildlife conflicts.

The department sets bag limits and issues hunt tags based on scientific data and population surveys. For example, deer hunt tags are determined by specific population goals for each management unit. This approach helps maintain healthy herd sizes and prevents overgrazing.

Harvest reporting is mandatory for many species. This data provides valuable information on population trends and helps wildlife biologists make informed management decisions. By participating in these reporting systems, non-resident hunters actively contribute to wildlife conservation efforts in Arizona.

Regulations and Legal Considerations

Arizona has specific rules and regulations for non-resident hunters. These cover hunting methods, seasons, and property access. Compliance is essential for a legal and ethical hunt.

Hunting Regulations

Non-resident hunters must obtain an Arizona hunting license. The cost for a non-resident license is $160. This license allows hunting of small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, and upland game birds.

For big game hunting, additional tags are required. These can be obtained through a draw system or as over-the-counter purchases for certain species and seasons.

Season dates vary by species and hunting method. Hunters must check current regulations for specific dates and deadlines.

Bag limits are strictly enforced. These limits differ by species and sometimes by region within Arizona.

Legal Hunting Methods

Arizona permits various hunting methods, depending on the season and species.

Archery-only seasons are available for deer. Non-residents can purchase over-the-counter archery-only tags for white-tailed or mule deer without using bonus points.

Firearms hunting is allowed during designated seasons. Specific weapon restrictions may apply based on the hunt type and location.

Baiting and electronic calling devices are prohibited for most species. Hunters should consult current regulations for allowed methods and equipment.

Trespassing and Private Land Rules

Hunting on private land in Arizona requires landowner permission. Trespassing is illegal and can result in fines or license revocation.

Some private lands participate in Arizona’s Access Program, allowing public hunting access. Hunters must obtain a permit for these areas.

State Trust Lands are open for hunting, but camping may require a permit. National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas are generally open for hunting, subject to specific regulations.

Always verify land ownership and access rules before hunting. Respect property boundaries and leave gates as you find them.

Resources and Additional Information

The Arizona Game and Fish Department offers various resources to support non-resident hunters. These include contact information, educational programs, and an Outdoor Skills Network to enhance hunting experiences.

AZGFD Contact Information

Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) provides multiple ways for non-resident hunters to get in touch. Their main office is located in Phoenix.

Phone: (602) 942-3000
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.azgfd.com

Regional offices are situated across the state for localized assistance. These offices can provide specific information about hunting areas and regulations in their regions.

Educational Programs

AZGFD offers several educational programs for non-resident hunters. The Hunter Education Program is crucial for those born after January 1, 1961. It covers firearm safety, wildlife conservation, and hunting ethics.

Online courses are available for convenience. In-person classes provide hands-on experience. Specialized workshops focus on specific game species or hunting methods.

The department also conducts seminars on topics like:

• Wildlife identification
• Hunting techniques
• Field dressing and meat preparation
• Wilderness survival skills

Outdoor Skills Network

The Outdoor Skills Network connects non-resident hunters with experienced mentors and local hunting groups. This program helps newcomers navigate Arizona’s diverse hunting landscape.

Participants can join guided hunts to learn about:

• Local wildlife behavior
• Terrain navigation
• Hunting regulations

The network organizes events throughout the year, including:

• Shooting range days
• Wildlife tracking workshops
• Conservation projects

These activities provide opportunities to meet fellow hunters and gain practical skills. The Outdoor Skills Network also offers resources for hunting Community Fishing Waters and pursuing Band-tailed Pigeons.