Arizona Game and Fish Department Invites Hunters to Strengthen Wildlife Management Efforts

PHOENIX – A Call to Arms for Conservation

On December 11, 2025, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) issued a clarion call to hunters throughout the state, urging them to partake in population management hunts designed to bolster wildlife populations and habitat health. As traditional harvest strategies fall short of ecological objectives, these specialized hunts will play a pivotal role in preserving Arizona’s rich biodiversity.

The newly introduced Hunter Pool Application is now open, offering dedicated hunters the opportunity to be randomly selected for specific management hunts year-round. This initiative not only enhances the department’s ability to meet its population and habitat management goals, but it also directly involves the hunting community in the stewardship of Arizona’s natural resources.

Navigating the Hunter Pool Application Process

To participate, hunters must complete the Hunter Pool Application, found on page 49 of the “2025-2026 Arizona Hunting Regulations.” It is critical to note that those who partake in a population management hunt and exhaust their annual bag limit for that species will be ineligible to participate in the general season for that species, even if selected through the standard draw process.

Applicants should mail their completed applications, along with a nonrefundable fee of $13 for residents or $15 for nonresidents per species, to:

Arizona Game and Fish Department
Attn.: Drawer FAB
5000 W. Carefree Highway
Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000

Please refrain from sending cash.

Understanding Population Management Hunts

Underpinning the rationale for these hunts is a commitment to effective wildlife management. AZGFD intends to enhance natural resource management through the following:

• Timeline: The Hunter Pool Application list will reset annually on December 31. Applications can be submitted year-round, but must be sent separately from any hunt permit-tag applications.
• Random Draw Process: If selected for a management hunt, applicants should expect to be contacted within 24 hours. If the department cannot reach the applicant, they will return to the pool for subsequent draws that year.
• Quick Response: Selected hunters should be prepared to mobilize quickly; they may be required to hunt within days of being contacted. A restricted nonpermit-tag and an appropriate hunting license will be necessary prior to hunting.

Importantly, participation in a population management hunt will neither confer nor detract from an applicant’s bonus points.

Why It Matters

The adoption of population management hunts speaks volumes about the evolving landscape of wildlife conservation in Arizona. For hunters, this initiative represents an invaluable opportunity not just to engage in responsible hunting but to actively contribute to the health and sustainability of ecosystems. By diversifying management strategies, AZGFD aims to maintain balanced wildlife populations, ensuring that our natural landscapes remain vibrant for generations to come.

Additionally, these efforts bolster local economies reliant on outdoor recreation. When wildlife is thriving, so too are the businesses and communities that cater to hunters, hikers, and tourists eager to experience the splendor of Arizona’s natural heritage.

Field Insights: Pro-Tips for Interested Hunters

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the Arizona Game and Fish website and ensure you read the hunting regulations to remain up-to-date with changes.
• Act Swiftly: If drawn for a hunt, prepare for rapid mobilization. Have your gear ready to go and familiarize yourself with any new hunting areas in advance.
• Engage with the Community: Join local conservation groups or forums to exchange tips and experiences with fellow hunters actively involved in wildlife management efforts.

By becoming part of the Hunter Pool, hunters can engage meaningfully with conservation efforts, directly impacting Arizona’s wildlife management strategies while enriching their own outdoor experiences. The future of our trails, streams, and species depends on a collaborative approach to stewardship—one that every hunter can be a part of.