Hunters discussing Arizona's Unit 4B highlight an advantageous bull-to-cow ratio of 105/100, which is significantly higher than comparable units in states like Colorado, suggesting a promising opportunity for successful hunting. This unit appears appealing to both trophy and non-trophy hunters, though its limited entry nature can puzzle those unfamiliar with draw odds—clarified as a lack of applicants rather than a point-based restriction. While specific concerns about public land access in Unit 4B during late hunts were raised, community support and further investigation can assist in navigating these challenges. For those aiming for a rewarding hunt in this unit, understanding access points and legal hunting zones is crucial, underscoring the importance of detailed preparation and local insights.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Coues Deer | 75"-85" | 85"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 320"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-75" | 80"+ |
High
Low
Low numbers of elk make hunting difficult in this unit, where high mountains in the southern quarter are mostly covered by conifers with grassy flats stretching across the north. Tags are easier to draw here than in other Arizona units, but don’t spend a lot of bonus points to draw an elk tag. Deer numbers also are low. Antelope hunting is much better.
This unit is known for high quality antelope hunting and mediocre elk and deer hunting. This is because antelope herds are stable while mule deer and Coues deer herds continue to decline. Early archery elk season is better than late bow season, yet few big bulls are killed during the rut.
Mixed conifer forest in high elevations in the south, grassland flats in the north and large canyons between.
Dirt roads provide good public access to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and state property. The northern three-fourths of the unit is mostly a checkerboard-style mix of public and private land with some restricted access. Virtually every square mile of state or BLM land is surrounded on four sides by private sections.
Higher elevations are comprised of mixed conifer forests. The mid-elevations have pinyon and juniper trees. The lower elevations have some pinyon and juniper forests with mostly large, open grass and brush flats and canyons.
Most hunters camp along dirt roads. Camping is allowed on most public land in the unit. Payson, Heber-Overgaard, Show Low, Holbrook and Winslow have lodging. Developed campgrounds include:
Roughly 1,336 square miles
47% public land
Elevations from 5,000-7,600 feet
Hiking is not difficult in most of the unit
Some long ridges and deep canyons
ATVs allowed only on roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles recommended for snowy and wet weather
Off-road travel permitted for game retrieval only
Some private lands posted against trespass
Ask permission from landowners for access
Woods Canyon Lake
Willow Springs Lake
Canyon Point
Chevelon Crossing