Scouting timeline

[Dexter Grayson]

I was fortunate enough to draw an Arizona unit 8 early archery tag. I was not expecting to draw so I pretty unprepared knowledge wise. I plan to do this hunt DIY simply because I did not plan to draw this tag and do not have the funds to hire a guide.

I should be able to make atleast one scouting trip out with the possibility of a second trip. My main question is if I was to only make one scouting trip (2-3 days), what would be the best time to make that trip? Middle of the summer? A month before season? A week before season?

 

[Indian Summer]

Show up a week early for your hunt

 

[Poser]

The closer to your hunt, the more effective. You'll definitely see more animals in the early to mid summer which is motivating and entertaining, but the intel is far less relevant for hunting season.

 

[Dexter Grayson]

Thanks guys!

 

[Indian Summer]

By doing that not only do you get a bead on the location of animals right when you are about to hunt but you can also get acclimated to the elevation while getting your camp set up, cutting firewood, and hiking to some vantage points. That would be a big advantage. You would also have time to decide if there is a reason to pack a tent in some gear into the backcountry to use as a spike camp site later in your hunt.