Quick Answer
Scouting elk before the Arizona hunting season involves studying elk behavior, habitat, and patterns to locate areas with high elk concentrations, often near water sources and during the best hunting times, which typically occur at dawn and dusk.
Pre-Season Research
Research the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s elk management plan, which outlines the state’s elk population, habitat, and hunting regulations. Review past harvest data, elk sightings, and hunting reports from the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website to identify areas with high elk activity. Create a list of potential hunting locations based on this information.
Field Scouting Techniques
When scouting in the field, look for signs of elk such as tracks, scat, and rubs on trees. These signs indicate elk presence and can help you pinpoint areas where they are likely to congregate. Use a compass and map to navigate, and take note of the terrain, vegetation, and water sources in the area. Consider scouting during the morning and evening hours when elk are most active. For areas with high elk density, consider scouting during the week and avoiding weekends when possible, as these areas tend to be more crowded.
Photography and Note-taking
Use a camera or phone to document elk signs, terrain features, and other relevant information. Take photographs of tracks, scat, and rubs, and note the location, date, and time of the sighting. Use a notebook to record your observations, sketching maps and diagrams to help visualize the terrain and elk patterns. Review your notes and photographs regularly to refine your strategy and identify areas worth revisiting before the season.
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