Payson Roundup

Even though it is mid-summer, the fall hunting permits have been finalized for the big game seasons in Arizona. Hopefully, you obtained at least one tag for a favorite hunt or at least a second choice permit.

If by chance you missed the deadline for the first draw, there is a bit of good news.

There are a significant number of tags available for deer, javelina and turkey that can still provide the opportunities to hunt within the boundaries of Arizona. These hunting units may require a little driving time from Payson, because they are in the more remote areas of the state.

There are more than 3,000 deer tags, which will be allotted by a first come, first served process starting Aug. 3. The Arizona Game and Fish Department will not accept any applications received before that day, so don’t send them too early.

The white permit envelopes are the same as the regular draw and can be obtained at the local Walmart sporting goods department or any business that sells hunting licenses.

When filling out the application, make sure all the information is complete and your signature is essential. Any mistakes will eliminate any chance of getting a leftover tag.

In my many years of hunting, I have had some great experiences in some of these more remote areas by obtaining a leftover permit. I might add that these units can hold some real quality deer and it will encourage a hunter to explore some new hunting areas in Arizona.

There are some mountain ranges in southeastern Arizona that are basically roadless and are ideal for backpacking or at least daytrips into some very good deer country. About a decade ago, Bob Ortlund and I made one of these trips into the Galiuros and glassed numerous whitetail bucks on the brushy hillsides in just a couple of days of hunting.

The following list encompasses the hunts available and the number of permits still open. So, do a little homework by getting out the maps, find a buddy to join in the fun, and hunt a new area of the state.

Permits are available in Units 24 A and B; 29; 30 A and B; 34 A and B; 35 A (except Fort Huachuca) and B; 36 A, B and C. The number varies from as few as two in Unit 36 C for Hunt No. 1141 to as many as 319 in Unit 36 B for Hunt No. 1138.

For details on drawing for the leftover deer permits and additional information on the javelina and turkey permits visit www.azgfd.gov/draw.

You can still plan a fall hunt in the Arizona outdoors, God’s creation.