Hunters discussing Arizona's Unit 7E emphasize the importance of understanding the terrain and seasonal patterns to increase success rates. Many highlight the unit's varied landscapes, from high elevations to lower desert areas, and suggest scouting early to familiarize oneself with these conditions. Additionally, hunters advise being prepared for potentially challenging weather conditions during the season and recommend focusing on areas with water sources, where game is more likely to be found. Overall, the sentiment suggests that thorough preparation and adaptability are key to a successful hunt in this unit.
This is the eastern half of Unit 7, which is managed separately for elk. Unit 7E encompasses the San Francisco Peaks, which includes the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet. After a couple severe wildfires over the past three decades, the state reduced the elk herd because the animals were detrimental to aspen regeneration in the burned areas. The state continues to limit the elk population in the Peaks area, but the herd is still healthy overall unit-wide. In addition to 7E elk hunts, there are Peaks-only hunts as well. Seasons for other big game species including antelope and mule deer, which also inhabit 7E are unit wide (7E and 7W).
The state issues many tags for this unit, which still holds elk despite herd reductions. Though 7E is not known for producing giant bulls, this unit still produces trophy-quality bulls. For elk, the early archery season is much more successful than the late bow season. This unit is also known for having big antelope bucks. 7E also holds trophy-caliber mule deer bucks for dedicated hunters willing to put in the required scouting to find them. Most of these bucks reside in the high country, but can be found throughout the unit.