NEWS RELEASE
April 16, 2026
PHOENIX — Once again, hunters have stepped up in a big way in their financial support of wildlife conservation efforts across the state.
The latest Copper State Draw offered hunters a chance to draw an additional permit-tag to hunt mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, and elk, while generating revenue that will bolster a variety of conservation programs funded through the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD).
On-the-ground wildlife conservation, habitat restoration and protection, and hunter access projects , are among many examples of AZGFD’s programs that benefit from such funding.
A total of six permit-tags were available through this draw — including an opportunity to hunt antlered mule deer on the scenic “Arizona Strip,” a premier location north of the Grand Canyon. The application deadline has passed. All successful applicants have been notified by telephone. Applicants who were unsuccessful will not receive correspondence from the department.
These hunting opportunities are discretionary and not to be confused with the annual draws that are conducted in February, June and October. A Copper State Draw permit-tag application does not preclude a hunter from applying for any other hunts throughout the year or impact bonus points. Animals harvested during Copper State Draw permit-tag seasons are excluded from annual bag limits. AZGFD will update customers about future Copper State Draw permit-tag seasons through its website (www.azgfd.gov), e-newsletters, Facebook, Instagram, and “X,” formerly known as Twitter.