A Dream Trophy Elk Harvest After Decades of Pursuit
It was as hot, dry, and dusty as any elk hunt I could imagine. When the moment of truth arrived, a large cloud of dust rose from the collapse of the largest bull elk I had ever laid eyes on. The hunt I had waited almost three decades for was over in just two days.
It had taken years of applying and hoping to someday draw a premium permit in one of the top elk units in Arizona. I learned, as years went by, that stars need to align to maximize success on these permits. Factors such as permit levels, environmental conditions, and luck are just a few of the variables that dictate how successful a hunt may or may not be.
Decades rolled by. It became clear that proper research was a critical factor to fully achieve the potential of these exceptional tags. In fact, the work on the front end may be as important as the actual work in the field. The elk were coming off a good moisture season in 2023. In the fall of 2023, I decided this was a great opportunity to capitalize on my 25+ points. The time had come to chase a top tier bull that Arizona is known for. The research began in September for the premium elk units 9, 10, and 23.
Kyle at Huntin’ Fool suggested I speak with Chad at A3 Trophy Hunts. Chad explained to me a unique opportunity they offered in unit 9. The decision was made to apply for the early rifle hunt in that unit. When the results were released, I was holding tag number three. Having the permit in hand brought a range of emotions and some anxiety. Would the summer storms bring the proper moisture? Would the rut sync with my hunt dates? Were the big bulls going to be broken by the time the rifle season rolled around? Regardless of the circumstances, this was going to be my best chance at a remarkable adventure and the potential for a bull-of-a-lifetime.
The summer flew by, and before I knew it, I was in Arizona elk camp. A few days of scouting and opening day had arrived. There were elk everywhere, and the rut was getting into full swing. What I had so patiently waited for had come to fruition.
As I approached the fallen elk, I was grateful that he had died quickly. This particular bull had been pursued for several years and was somewhat of a celebrity with Chad and his crew. A 26" brow was just one of several unique characteristics that made him special. They estimated him at nine years of age and possibly the last year of his prime. His mating ritual included a yearly 40-mile one-way journey from summer range to rut in this specific area. It was a trek he made more than once.
I stood looking at the bull wondering how all this could be possible. My success on the late 2023 12AW late Kaibab deer hunt was nothing short of remarkable. Now to harvest this bull couldn’t have been more implausible. Arizona is a special place. The genetics, minerals, and special management make it a hunter’s paradise. I am extremely fortunate and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of two truly special animals in consecutive years.
I would like to thank the Huntin’ Fool team, especially Kyle for all of his help on this hunt. Many thanks to Chad at A3 and especially to Rob Cannon. I couldn’t ask for a better person to spend time in the field with.