The American Southwest is a hunter’s paradise, offering a dramatic blend of rugged mountains, high desert plateaus, dense pine forests, and red rock canyons—all teeming with a diverse range of big game and specialty hunting opportunities. New Mexico and Arizona, in particular, stand out as premier destinations for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime hunts and unique wildlife encounters. Both states are renowned for their well-managed wildlife populations and draw-based tag systems that prioritize conservation and quality hunting experiences. In New Mexico, one of the crown jewels of the hunting world is the Rocky Mountain elk hunt. With bulls that often exceed 350 inches, New Mexico is home to some of the biggest elk in North America, especially in units like the Gila National Forest. Hunters flock to the state each year in hopes of drawing a coveted tag, knowing that a successful hunt here often results in massive antlers and unforgettable memories. Beyond elk, New Mexico also offers excellent mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and even oryx and Barbary sheep hunts, thanks to introduced species thriving on White Sands Missile Range and other arid military-managed lands. These hunts are not only challenging due to the terrain and stealth required but are also incredibly unique in terms of the animals pursued.
Popular AZ Species
Arizona, on the other hand, has built a name for itself with its exceptional trophy-quality species and specialty hunts. The state is perhaps best known for its world-class Coues deer and mule deer, with many hunters traveling from across the country to take on the challenge of spotting and stalking these elusive animals in the steep, cactus-studded terrain of southern Arizona. The Coues deer, often referred to as the “gray ghost,” is especially prized for its elusive nature and the sharp eyes required to spot it. In the northern part of the state, elk reign supreme, with units around Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim producing record-class bulls that rival even New Mexico’s. What adds to Arizona’s allure is the opportunity for bighorn sheep hunts—both desert and Rocky Mountain subspecies—which are among the most difficult tags to draw but also among the most sought-after in North America.
Specialty Species
One specialty hunt that deserves particular attention to AZ turkey season. The state offers hunts for three different subspecies—Merriam’s, Gould’s, and the Rio Grande—making it a dream destination for the dedicated turkey hunter looking to complete a Grand Slam. The most unique of the trio is the Gould’s turkey, found primarily in the sky islands of southeastern Arizona near the Mexican border. These birds are larger and more striking in appearance than the more common Merriam’s, and the hunt itself takes place in some of the most scenic and remote mountain ranges in the state. Spring turkey hunting in Arizona combines breathtaking scenery, cool mountain air, and the electrifying sound of a gobbler breaking the morning silence, providing both a thrilling challenge and a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re chasing high-desert pronghorns, glassing ridgelines for elk, or calling in a strutting tom beneath the pines, the Southwest offers an unmatched variety of hunts for those drawn to wide open spaces, wild terrain, and the timeless pursuit of big game.