AZ Elk Unit 22

# AZ Unit 22 — Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Unit 22 spans 1.0M acres of primarily public land (99.4%) across a wide elevation band (1,328–7,814 ft), offering diverse hunting habitat from lower foothills to high country. Thirty percent wilderness requires careful route planning. Unit 22 North (area north of Payson) holds the majority of elk; Unit 22 South supports lower densities but expanding populations, making it less competitive for hunters willing to explore. ## Herd Quality & Population Bull:cow ratios declined from 30:100 (2024) to 22:100 (2025), reflecting recent management adjustments. The 2025 quality index rated "Good" rather...