Arizona Over-the-Counter Archery Mule Deer Hunts

Guided by Arizona Strip Guides | Travis McClendon – (928) 300-6755

Arizona offers bowhunters a rare and exciting opportunity to pursue trophy mule deer bucks through over-the-counter (OTC) archery seasons, available twice each year. These hunts allow hunters to chase velvet bucks in August or rutting giants in December and January—all without waiting on a draw tag.

OTC Archery Mule Deer Hunting Seasons

Early Season OTC Archery Hunt

• August 22 – September 11

This 21-day season gives bowhunters the chance to hunt bachelor groups of velvet bucks in their summer patterns. Due to the heat, most deer are concentrated around water sources, making this an ideal hunt for tree stands or ground blinds.

• Style: Waterhole hunts with occasional spot-and-stalk
• Conditions: Hot, dry, predictable deer patterns
• Target Bucks: Velvet bucks in bachelor groups
• Prime Strategy: Hunt water sources early and late in the day

Late Season OTC Rut Archery Hunt

• December 12 – January 31

The rut hunt is one of the most exciting bowhunting experiences in the West. Trophy mule deer bucks are visible, active, and chasing does across open terrain, offering intense spot-and-stalk action and plenty of opportunity for those ready to move.

• Style: Fast-paced spot-and-stalk
• Conditions: Cool, winter weather with peak rut behavior
• Target Bucks: Hard-antlered giants in full rut
• Prime Strategy: Glassing and moving on active bucks in pursuit

Lodging & Camp Details

Most late-season hunts are based out of a comfortable lodge featuring:

• Satellite TV
• WiFi access
• Hot showers
• Full kitchen and dining space
• On-site bow range (bring your own target recommended)

You’ll enjoy a true hunting camp atmosphere with modern comforts—hot meals, a warm bed, and the ability to unwind after long days in the field.

2025 OTC Archery Hunt Pricing

All hunts are "Guide Only" Packages

• 5 Days – 1x1 Guide & Lodging: $4,000
• 5 Days – 2x1 Guide & Lodging: $3,000 per hunter

Included:

• Field transportation
• Field dressing
• Local delivery to processor (if needed)
• Camp lodging

Not Included:

• Meals (Breakfast at gas station, dinner in town 20 minutes away)
• Hunting license: $160
• Deer tag: $300
• (We can assist with purchasing these on arrival)

Note: These hunts do not affect your bonus points in the Arizona draw system. However, you may only harvest one deer per calendar year.

2025 Hunting Weeks Available

Early Season Velvet Hunts

• Aug 22 – 28
• Aug 30 – Sept 1
• Sept 3 – 7

Winter Rut Hunts

• Dec 12 – 16
• Dec 18 – 22
• Jan 2 – 6
• Jan 8 – 12
• Jan 14 – 18
• Jan 20 – 25

Booking early gives you the most flexibility in choosing your hunting week—especially once draw results are released in July and demand spikes.

Travel Information

• We’ll coordinate a meet-up time and location at the ranch for hunters driving in.

Flying:

• Fly into Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) and schedule a shuttle to Prescott Valley. Your guide will meet you there and take you to the ranch. (Shuttle approx. $40 – book in advance)

Book Your OTC Archery Mule Deer Hunt Today

Call Travis McClendon at (928) 300-6755

Arizona Strip Guides – Trusted, Experienced, Proven