Best Public Land Areas for Quail Hunting in Arizona

Arizona offers excellent quail hunting opportunities, particularly for Gambel's quail, scaled quail, and Mearns' quail. Public lands managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and U.S. Forest Service are great places to hunt. Here are some of the best public land areas and tips for success:

Best Public Land Areas for Quail Hunting in Arizona

1. Southeastern Arizona (Mearns' Quail)

   • Coronado National Forest: Known for Mearns' quail, this area has grassy foothills and oak woodlands. Focus on areas near Sonoita, Patagonia, and the Huachuca Mountains.

   • Las Cienegas National Conservation Area: Offers good habitat for Mearns' quail.

2. Central Arizona (Gambel's and Scaled Quail)

   • Tonto National Forest: Gambel's quail thrive in the desert foothills and riparian areas. Look around the lower elevations near the Sonoran Desert.

   • Lower Verde River Area: A mix of Gambel's and scaled quail can be found here.

3. Western Arizona (Gambel's Quail)

   • Kofa National Wildlife Refuge: Known for Gambel's quail, this area has rugged desert terrain.

   • BLM Lands near Yuma: These areas are productive for Gambel's quail.

4. Northern Arizona (Scaled Quail)

   • Chino Valley and Prescott Area: Scaled quail are common in the grasslands and shrublands of this region.

Tips for Successful Quail Hunting

1. Scout Ahead of Time:

   • Visit your chosen area before the season to identify quail coveys, water sources, and feeding areas.

   • Look for quail near water tanks, washes, and riparian areas, especially in dry conditions.

2. Hunt Early Morning or Late Afternoon:

   • Quail are most active during these times when they feed and water.

3. Use a Good Bird Dog:

   • A well-trained pointing or flushing dog can greatly increase your success, especially in dense cover.

4. Focus on Habitat:

   • Gambel's quail prefer desert scrub, mesquite thickets, and washes.

   • Scaled quail are often found in grasslands and open shrublands.

   • Mearns' quail prefer oak woodlands and grassy slopes.

5. Move Slowly and Listen:

   • Quail often reveal their location with their distinctive calls. Listen for the "chi-ca-go" call of Gambel's quail or the whistling of scaled quail.

6. Be Prepared for Rough Terrain:

   • Wear sturdy boots and carry plenty of water, especially in desert environments.

7. Use the Right Shotgun and Loads:

   • A 20-gauge or 12-gauge shotgun with #7.5 or #8 shot is ideal for quail.

8. Follow Regulations:

   • Check the AZGFD regulations for season dates, bag limits, and required licenses.

9. Hunt After Rain:

   • Quail are more active and easier to locate after rainfall, as they forage for fresh greens and insects.

10. Stay Safe:

    • Be aware of wildlife (e.g., rattlesnakes) and carry a first-aid kit.

    • Let someone know your hunting plans and expected return time.

By focusing on the right habitats, scouting, and using proper techniques, you can have a successful quail hunting experience in Arizona's public lands. Good luck!