Applying for Two Species in One Arizona Cycle
It’s a common frustration for hunters in Arizona: you've been putting in for elk for years, but now you're eyeing that incredible antelope unit, or maybe you're thinking about adding a deer application to your sheep application. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) draw system can feel like a complex puzzle, leaving many wondering if they can even apply for multiple species within the same application period without risking their chances or confusing the system. This guide will walk you through exactly how Arizona's draw cycles work and how you can strategically apply for two species within a single application cycle, maximizing your opportunities on the landscape.
Understanding Arizona's Split Draw Cycles
One of the first things that can trip up even experienced hunters in Arizona is understanding that the state doesn't run one giant, all-encompassing draw for every species at once. Instead, Arizona strategically splits its big game draw into two distinct application periods each year. This is a critical piece of information because it directly impacts which species you can apply for simultaneously.
The February Application Period and Its Species
The first major application period traditionally kicks off in February, and this is where most of the highly sought-after trophy tags in Arizona are allocated. If you're dreaming of bugling bulls or fast-moving pronghorn, this is your primary window.
This cycle is typically for elk and antelope. Occasionally, spring bison tags might also fall into this application period, though those are significantly rarer. The application deadline for these species usually falls in the second week of February, so marking your calendar is absolutely essential. Imagine spending months scouting, only to miss the application window by a day – it's a gut-wrenching experience many hunters have faced. Because of the incredible demand for these species, especially elk, hunters often spend years building bonus points, which are species-specific. The temptation to apply for multiple dream hunts like a big bull elk and a trophy antelope in the same breath is strong, and thankfully, the system allows for it.
The June Application Period and Its Associated Game
Following the February frenzy, Arizona hunters have a second, equally important application period that typically runs in June. This cycle focuses on a different set of fantastic big game opportunities.
The June application period is generally for deer (both Coues and mule deer), bighorn sheep (Desert and Rocky Mountain), and sometimes fall bison or turkey. The deadline for this cycle usually lands in early to mid-June. It’s important to recognize that these are entirely separate draws from the February cycle. You won't be applying for deer and elk at the same exact time in the same form, because those species belong to different application windows. However, within this June cycle, you might be very interested in putting in for a trophy mule deer tag and a once-in-a-lifetime bighorn sheep tag. Understanding these distinct periods is the first step to successfully navigating the draw. This split system is a key component of how Arizona Runs Two Draw Cycles, February and June.
Navigating the Application Process for Multiple Species
So, you've got your sights set on more than one species within the same application cycle – say, both elk and antelope in February, or deer and bighorn in June. The good news is, Arizona’s online application portal is designed to accommodate this, allowing you to pursue multiple passions within a given cycle.
Applying for Two Different Species Within the Same Cycle
This is the core question for many hunters: can you actually apply for an elk tag and an antelope tag within the same February draw? Or a mule deer tag and a bighorn sheep tag in the June draw? The definitive answer is a resounding yes, you absolutely can!
When you log into the AZGFD online portal during an open application period, you'll select the option to apply for a hunt permit-tag. The system will guide you to choose your desired species first. If you select "Elk," you'll then be prompted to enter your hunt unit choices. After completing that application, you can simply go back and start a new application, this time selecting "Antelope" (or another species within that same cycle). These separate applications for different species will be processed independently, but within the overarching application period. Think of it like adding different items to a single shopping cart before you check out – each item is distinct, but they're all part of one transaction. You'll complete the hunt choices for each species, and then, at the very end, you'll submit them all together for that specific draw cycle. This allows hunters to target multiple opportunities that fall within The Arizona Elk and Antelope Application Deadline or The Arizona Deer, Sheep and Bison Deadline.
It’s crucial to remember that each species application incurs a separate, non-refundable application fee. If you apply for elk, that's one fee. If you then apply for antelope, that's another fee. These add up, so budget accordingly before you start adding multiple species to your application list.
The Impact on Bonus Points and Draw Odds
When applying for multiple species, a common misconception is that your efforts or points somehow "cross over." However, Arizona's bonus point system is very specific. Your bonus points are strictly species-specific. For example, the points you’ve accumulated for elk will only be applied to your elk application. They will not, in any way, boost your chances for an antelope tag, and vice-versa. This is why understanding that Why Arizona Bonus Points Never Cross Species is so important.
Applying for two species in the same cycle doesn't double your chances for a single species; instead, it expands your overall opportunities to draw a tag. If you have 10 elk points and 5 antelope points, and you apply for both in February, your elk application will be considered with those 10 points, and your antelope application will be considered with its 5 points. They remain entirely distinct. This means you could potentially draw both an elk and an antelope tag in the same year, a rare but exciting possibility for those with enough points and a bit of luck! However, it also means you’re investing in two separate draws with separate odds. Many hunters use sophisticated tools from providers like GoHunt to analyze draw odds across different units and species, helping them decide if the financial commitment of applying for two species is a worthwhile gamble based on their accumulated points. Understanding What Happens to Arizona Points When You Draw is also key to long-term strategy.
Strategic Considerations for Multi-Species Applications
Deciding whether to apply for two species in one Arizona cycle involves more than just knowing it's possible; it requires strategic thinking about your hunting goals, financial situation, and the realities of drawing a tag in Arizona.
Prioritizing Your Dream Hunts and Realistic Expectations
Before you jump into applying for every possible species in a given cycle, take a moment to prioritize. What's your true dream tag? Is it a record-book elk, or is it simply to get any big game tag in Arizona? The state offers a wide range of opportunities, some with incredibly tough odds and others that are much more accessible.
For instance, you might decide to put in for a highly coveted trophy elk unit in the February draw, even if your odds are slim, because that's your long-term goal for building points and eventually drawing that dream tag. At the same time, you might also apply for an antelope unit with slightly better odds, hoping for a more immediate opportunity. Remember, not all tags require a draw; for example, Arizona's Over-the-Counter Archery Deer Tag Explained offers a completely different pathway to hunting, meaning you wouldn't apply for that specific tag in the June draw.
Consider your time and physical commitment as well. If you were to draw both a challenging elk hunt and an antelope hunt in the same year, would you realistically have the time off work, the physical stamina, and the budget to pursue both fully? For many, drawing two big game tags in a single year is a fantastic "problem" to have, but it's one you should be prepared for. Hunters often use platforms like GoHunt to evaluate the difficulty of specific units and the effort required, helping them match their applications to their personal capacity.
Financial Planning for Application Fees and Tags
One of the most practical considerations when applying for multiple species is the financial aspect. Each species application incurs a non-refundable application fee, and while these might seem small individually, they add up quickly when you're applying for several species across multiple cycles.
Here’s a quick overview of typical application fees for non-residents, and it's good to note that resident fees are generally lower:
| Species | Draw Cycle | Non-Resident Application Fee (approx.) | Non-Resident Hunting License (annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elk | February | $15.00 | $160.00 |
| Antelope | February | $15.00 | $160.00 |
| Bighorn Sheep | June | $15.00 | $160.00 |
| Mule Deer | June | $15.00 | $160.00 |
| Coues Deer | June | $15.00 | $160.00 |
| Bison | Feb/June | $15.00 | $160.00 |
Note: The hunting license fee must be paid annually to apply for any big game draw, even if you are just buying a point. Application fees are non-refundable and are charged per species application.
As you can see, even before you consider the cost of the actual tag (which can be substantial, especially for non-residents), the application fees alone for multiple species can reach a significant amount. Beyond the application fee, remember you need to purchase an annual Arizona hunting license before you can even apply. This license is a prerequisite to entering any big game draw or buying a bonus point.
The actual tag fee for a successful draw is only charged after you've been selected. So, while you're paying application fees upfront, make sure you have the funds available for the full tag price if you are successful. For instance, a non-resident elk tag runs $665. The financial commitment for Arizona Application Fees Per Species can be considerable, so plan your budget well in advance of the application deadlines.
Using Tools for Strategic Application Choices
In today’s digital age, relying solely on guesswork or past experience is no longer the most effective strategy for drawing tags in Arizona. A wealth of data is available, and smart hunters leverage it to make informed decisions about their applications.
This is where specialized platforms like GoHunt come into play. GoHunt's Insider service, for example, is renowned for its detailed draw odds, unit-by-unit breakdowns, and historical success rates for various species across Arizona. When you're trying to decide whether to apply for both elk and antelope, or mule deer and bighorn, tools like GoHunt allow you to:
- Analyze Draw Odds: Instantly see your chances of drawing a tag based on your bonus points for multiple species. This helps you understand if applying for two challenging tags simultaneously is a viable strategy or if you should focus on one for points and another for a realistic hunt.
- Explore Unit Data: Dive deep into specific units for both species you're considering. What's the public land access like? What's the terrain? Are there water sources that concentrate game? This type of E-Scouting an Arizona Unit Before the Season is invaluable.
- Compare Strategies: Run scenarios for different application choices. Should you apply for a high-point elk unit and a lower-point antelope unit? Or go all-in on two extremely tough draws? GoHunt's data helps you make these decisions with confidence.
- Understand Season Dates: Ensure that if you do draw two tags, their season dates don't overlap in a way that makes hunting both impossible.
By utilizing these advanced scouting and data analysis tools, you move beyond mere hope and towards a calculated approach to maximizing your Arizona hunting opportunities. Checking Arizona Draw Odds Before You Apply becomes less of a chore and more of a strategic planning session, especially when considering multiple species. It’s also always wise to review the Reading the Arizona Hunt Regulations Booklet for the most current rules.
Disclaimer
Please note that hunting regulations, seasons, and fees can change. Always consult the official Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) regulations booklet and website for the most current and accurate information before applying for any hunt permits or heading afield. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
