Hunters in Arizona's Unit 20C express varied experiences, generally noting an abundance of game during late archery hunting seasons compared to earlier rifle hunts due to seasonal rutting patterns. While some are enthusiastic about the buck sightings and overall learning experiences, others mention challenges with spot-and-stalk methods and adverse weather like high winds. There's a sentiment of helpfulness within the community, with individuals seeking and sharing advice on hunting strategies, including the benefits of hunting historically burned areas and navigating rut behaviors. Overall, hunters consider Unit 20C promising for late archery hunts and suggest using resources like local biologists for specific insights, particularly when planning youth hunts.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 320"+ |
High
Low
Featuring the Weaver Mountains and the smaller Date Creek Mountains about 25 miles southwest of Prescott, this unit is largely state and federal public land, with good public access. Hunters enjoy good mule deer hunting with some mature bucks. Elk are scarce.
Mule deer hunting is good, especially in low desert terrain, but elk are few in number, which makes for difficult elk hunting. Hunter success is low. Elk tags are valid in several units that are better than Unit 20C.
Some terrain in the north and east is rocky and steep, mostly in the Weaver Mountains. A smaller range, the Date Creek Mountains, are in the southwest. Gentle, rolling grasslands and deserts are in the west. Hassayampa River Canyon Wilderness straddles the border of Units 20C and 20B.
Most land is BLM or state property, open to hunting. Some private ranches restrict access, including much of the land near the Hassayampa River and Kirkland, but some landowners give hunting permission to polite hunters who present themselves well.
Pinyon pines, junipers and scrub oak grow at high elevations, along with a mixture of grasslands and chaparral. Lower elevations are Sonoran desert with various species of cactus, yuccas, forbs and grass.
Most hunters camp on public land along roads. Motels are in Wickenburg, Yarnell and Congress. No public campgrounds exist.
Roughly 760 square miles
78% public land
Elevations from 2,000-6,574 feet
No vehicles are allowed in Hassayampa River Canyon Wilderness
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
Get permission from private landowners before scouting for elk
Flooding occurs regularly and can create closures on some back roads