Hunters looking into Unit 28, Arizona for late-season over-the-counter (OTC) archery hunts for mule deer in January should prepare for challenging terrain and significant ATV activity, which can make it difficult to escape roadways and access remote areas. While deer sightings are common, success requires persistence, scouting, and perhaps a willingness to hike extensively. Non-resident applicants trying to draw Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep should focus on units with higher permit allocations, avoiding trophy units if their points are low. Understanding draw odds is critical; first and second choices impact them heavily, and drawing success can be misleading if applicants secure their primary choice, reducing the pool for subsequent selections. Overall, insight into the landscape, proper preparation, and strategic choice of units can optimize hunting efforts in Arizona.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Coues Deer | 70"-90" | 95"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
| Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep | 160"-170" | 175"+ |
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 160"-170" | 170"+ |
High
Low
This huge unit borders the south side of the San Carlos Indian Reservation and spans more than 85 miles of the Gila Mountains, and other rugged ranges and desert terrain all the way down to San Simon. Hunters find desert bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer and a limited number of Coues deer here.
Rugged terrain holds some big Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, trophy class desert bighorns, a few big Coues deer and some mule deer. Mule deer numbers have been down in recent years due to predation and drought, but the forecast for the unit is good. Sheep hunting has traditionally been very successful in this unit.
Rough and rocky desert mountains and canyons comprise most of the terrain, which is mostly open and has plenty of topography to allow for good glassing. Some high mountains are along the northern border. Ranges include the Gila, Peloncillo and Whitlock mountains. The Fisher Hills are on state ground in the southeast corner. The almost flat San Simon Valley runs across the southern border and includes the towns of Bowie and San Simon. Part of the Gila Valley, which includes the Gila River, is situated in the northern half of the unit near Safford, Pima and Thatcher.
BLM and state lands comprise most of the unit although most of the low parts of the Gila Valley are private. The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, managed by the BLM, borders the San Carlos Indian Reservation and is called an oasis in the desert, with the Gila and San Francisco Rivers, along with the Eagle and Bonita Creeks running through it. Roughly 25 square miles of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest are in the northeast corner.
High elevations have pinyon/juniper and oaks. Low elevations have typical Chihuahuan desert biosphere with cactus, desert scrub and grass. Along the Gila River are willows, cottonwoods and salt cedar.
Hunters may camp on almost all public land. Lodging is in Safford-Thatcher, Clifton-Morenci, San Simon-Bowie and Duncan.
Developed campgrounds include:
Roper Lake State Park
Blackjack Campground in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Riverview and Owl Creek campgrounds are in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
Roughly 2,231 square miles
86.5% public land
Elevations from about 3,000-7,000 feet
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roadways
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended during inclement weather
Good access on public roads
Private property near towns and along the Gila River restrict access
No vehicles allowed in Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness northeast of San Simon
Water
Flush toilets
Sewage disposal station
90 campsites (32 with water and electricity)
Mineral spring hot tub
Picnic tables
Barbecue pits
Vault toilets
No water
13 units at Riverview
7 units at Owl Creek
Tables, shade structures and grills
Bighorn sheep are commonly observed
Potable water at Riverview