Arizona Mule Deer hunting is unmatched in quality and also opportunity. Arizona is home to the world famous Arizona Strip. This is an extremely special place to hunt mule deer and we have an intimate knowledge of the terrain. Since 2016 we have been able to harvest 15 Bucks over the magical 200 inch mark, many eclipsing 215 inches and two bucks over 245 inches. We ask a lot of our hunters as many times we will pass 200 inch deer to pursue true giant deer.
Shadow Valley Outfitters guide Hunter Larson with a 215 inch velvet buck killed during the 2019 late rifle hunt.
The Arizona Strip is almost 3 million acres of land on the north side of the Grand Canyon. This area is unique due to the fact that historically the Grand Canyon was extremely difficult to cross - leaving the Strip fairly remote. Native Americans have a long history of living in this area and developed a trail used for trade that became one of the main ways for settlers to access the Strip. Those who decided to stick around in the tough terrain used it for sheep and cattle ranches. The population of humans is still few and far between today, making the Arizona Strip prime habitat for mule deer and other game species.
You'll find red rock canyons, cactus, and sagebrush in abundance here. The canyons and high elevation make for great mule deer habitat however, this means hunters should be prepared for a physical hunt and time spent in the wilderness. The beautiful terrain makes for a great backdrop as you're glassing for your trophy buck!
The Strip makes up units 13a and 13b. Both units offer an archery hunt in the early fall and a rifle hunt during the rut. Across the units deer populations are low, but the age class and genetics of the Strip provide the bucks opportunity to reach full maturity. We spend countless days on the Strip scouting throughout the summer and fall in preparation for our hunts. Our success is a direct result of our team's size and effort. It takes a great group of guides and spotters to consistently put our hunters on big mature bucks.
