Top Hunting Places in Buckeye, Arizona

Buckeye, Arizona is one of the fastest-growing cities in the West Valley, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it remains a premier hunting destination that blends easy accessibility with vast stretches of public land. Whether you're chasing migratory birds, stalking mule deer, or calling in coyotes, Buckeye offers direct access to some of the richest hunting grounds in central Arizona. With nearby access to Game Management Unit 39, State Trust Lands, and BLM-controlled desert plains, Buckeye is a hidden gem for Arizona hunters.

Why Buckeye Is a Prime Hunting Hub

Buckeye sits just west of Phoenix, adjacent to wide-open desert, agricultural fields, and riparian corridors. This makes it a prime staging ground for both short day hunts and multi-day expeditions. Key advantages include:

• Quick access to GMU 39 and GMU 41
  
• Abundant small game and bird hunting opportunities
  
• Low hunting pressure compared to more northern units
  
• Ideal predator habitat for year-round coyote hunts
  

Best Game Management Units Near Buckeye

GMU 39

Directly bordering Buckeye, this is one of the most accessible and productive hunting units in Arizona. The unit features flat desert, wash systems, and desert hills with mule deer, javelina, and upland game birds.

• Top species: Dove, quail, coyote, mule deer, javelina
  
• Terrain: Open Sonoran desert with excellent glassing potential
  
• Hotspots: Areas south of I-10 near Arlington and Palo Verde
  

GMU 41

Just south of GMU 39, this unit offers a more rugged, remote experience. It’s popular for mule deer, Coues deer (in higher elevations), and predator hunts. Less developed and slightly farther from town, GMU 41 rewards those willing to hike and scout.

What Game Can You Hunt in Buckeye

Dove Hunting

Buckeye is legendary during early September, when flocks of mourning dove descend on the agricultural fields. Irrigated corn, millet, and sunflower fields draw birds in large numbers.

• Tactics: Set up near grain fields at sunrise and sunset.
  
• Tip: Scout before opening day to locate flyways and roost trees.
  

Gambel’s Quail

The mesquite flats and wash systems are loaded with Gambel’s quail, which flush in coveys and offer an exhilarating challenge for upland hunters.

• Season: October through February
  
• Best areas: State Trust Land between Buckeye and Tonopah
  

Mule Deer

Glassing for mule deer in GMU 39 is a time-honored tradition in Buckeye. Archery tags are available over-the-counter, while rifle hunts require draw tags.

• Archery season: August–September and December–January
  
• Best strategy: Spot-and-stalk using ridgelines and desert hills
  

Javelina

Javelina are plentiful in Buckeye’s lower desert. Hunters often find them in small herds near washes, cactus thickets, and dense cover.

• Best time: January–March
  
• Weapon options: Handgun, archery, or rifle
  

Coyote and Predators

With year-round open seasons, coyote hunting near Buckeye is outstanding. Vast tracts of open land allow for predator calls, decoy setups, and long-distance shooting.

• Tactics: Use electronic calls and position with wind advantage
  
• Popular zones: South of Southern Ave and east toward Rainbow Valley
  

Top Public Hunting Areas in Buckeye

Arlington & Palo Verde

These small rural communities southwest of Buckeye offer easy public land access, surrounded by farm fields and open desert. Popular for dove, rabbit, and predator hunting.

State Trust Lands

There are thousands of acres of State Trust Land around Buckeye that require a Recreational Permit to access. These areas are fantastic for quail, jackrabbit, and coyote.

BLM Land near Tonopah

West of Buckeye, near Tonopah, you’ll find Bureau of Land Management land that’s open to public hunting and largely undeveloped. Ideal for deer and predator hunting with minimal foot traffic.

Essential Gear for Hunting Buckeye Terrain

• High-quality optics (binoculars and spotting scope) for long-range glassing
  
• CamelBak or hydration pack for long hikes in arid terrain
  
• Camo suited for desert (light tan, sage, and sand tones)
  
• Trekking poles and knee pads for navigating rocky, uneven ground
  
• GPS or OnX app to stay within public land boundaries
  
• Appropriate firearm (secured in quality tactical soft rifle cases) or bow per regulation
  

Where to Get Supplies in Buckeye

• Cabela’s (Glendale) – Full selection of hunting rifles, optics, and gear.
  
• Sportsman’s Warehouse (Goodyear) – Closest major outfitter for ammo and supplies.
  
• Walmart (Buckeye) – Basic hunting licenses, camouflage, and camping gear.
  

Hunting Licenses and Legal Requirements

To hunt in Buckeye, you must:

1. Hold a valid Arizona hunting license
   
2. Have species-specific tags (javelina, mule deer, etc.)
   
3. Carry a State Land Department Recreational Permit if accessing trust lands
   
4. Comply with HIP certification for migratory bird hunting
   

Review the full Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations for updated season dates, limits, and weapon guidelines.

Best Times of Year to Hunt in Buckeye

 

Local Hunting Etiquette & Safety

• Respect fences and private property boundaries.
  
• Pack out all trash, including spent shells and field dressing remnants.
  
• Leave gates as you found them—open or closed.
  
• Never shoot near roads or structures.
  

Buckeye hunters are part of a community that values land stewardship, safety, and sportsmanship. Setting a good example preserves access for future generations.

Conclusion: Buckeye Is Arizona’s Desert Hunting Playground

From early-morning dove flights to rugged mule deer glassing sessions, Buckeye provides unrivaled access to wild game without leaving the Valley. With nearby GMUs, minimal competition, and vast stretches of huntable land, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and adventure for Arizona hunters.

Whether you're looking to introduce your child to dove hunting, fill a tag with a winter javelina, or sharpen your calling skills on coyotes—Buckeye offers it all.