PHOENIX — More than 600 hunt permit-tags are available for the 2017 minimal occurrence zone/low-density elk hunt in game management units 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B.

These four units combined have an extremely low-density elk population – an estimated 40 to 50 total animals. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is specifically managing these units for wildlife values other than elk, and an established population is not desirable. The intent of this particular hunt (Hunt No. 3799) is to eliminate this elk population.

Those who purchase one of these hunt permit-tags should be aware that because of extremely low densities, hunt success likely will be less than 5 percent. Only those who did not receive an elk hunt permit-tag in the recent random draw may buy one of these hunt permit-tags. Bonus points are not affected when purchasing a hunt permit-tag through the first-come, first-served process.

As of Friday, 616 hunt permit-tags were available for purchase as follows:

By mail: Paper applications must be addressed to: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Draw/First Come, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086. Note: There is no “mini” draw. Allow 10 to 15 business days to receive a hunt permit-tag by mail.
In person: Leftover hunt permit-tags will be available for purchase beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, May 1 at any of the seven department offices statewide.

The cost of a hunt permit-tag fee is $48, which includes a $13 non-refundable application fee. A non-resident hunt permit-tag is $50, which includes a $15 non-refundable application fee. The hunt dates are May 1-Oct. 12, and Oct. 27-Dec. 31, 2017. A bull or cow elk may be harvested.

For more information, view the “2017 Pronghorn Antelope and Elk Hunt Draw Information” PDF booklet online, or call (602) 942-3000.