Top Hunting Places in Goodyear, Arizona

June 27, 2025

Goodyear, Arizona, located just west of Phoenix, is a gateway to some of the most dynamic and rewarding hunting grounds in the Sonoran Desert. With its close proximity to Units 39 and 40B, and access to vast public lands and varied terrain, Goodyear offers hunters of all skill levels the chance to pursue big game, small game, and upland birds—all without venturing far from home.

Top Public Hunting Areas Near Goodyear, AZ

1. Buckeye Hills Recreation Area (Unit 39)

Just south of Goodyear lies the Buckeye Hills, part of Arizona’s Game Management Unit 39, known for high visibility and varied desert terrain. It’s ideal for hunters seeking small game, predators, and even mule deer during archery season.

Game Species: Gambel’s quail, dove, coyote, jackrabbit, mule deer.
Access Routes: Highway 85 south to Hazen or Buckeye Hills Drive.
Features: Rolling hills, dry washes, and desert flats.

This is a great location for early morning walk-and-flush hunts, especially for quail in the fall.

2. Robbins Butte Wildlife Area

Located southwest of Goodyear, this riparian zone managed by AZGFD is a haven for migratory birds and game birds.

Game Species: Dove, waterfowl, quail.
Season Highlights: Dove opener (September 1st) is especially productive here.
Note: This is a non-motorized area — hunters must park and hike in.

The dense cover and adjacent agricultural fields make this a top-tier birding location in Maricopa County.

3. Arlington and Agua Caliente Road Corridors (Unit 40B)

Vast tracts of State Trust and BLM land begin just 30–45 minutes southwest of Goodyear in Unit 40B. This is where serious hunters go for javelina, mule deer, and predator hunting.

Game Species: Javelina, mule deer, coyote, bobcat.
Best Season: January–February for javelina, August/December for archery deer.
Access Tips: Off Highway 85 toward Arlington or Agua Caliente—carry a printed map or GPS app as cell service drops off quickly.

Use glassing points to scan for herds at dawn, and hunt into the wind for best results.

What to Hunt Near Goodyear, AZ

Gambel’s Quail

These fast-moving desert birds are plentiful near Goodyear, especially in areas with mesquite, creosote, and dry arroyos.

Season: Mid-October to early February.
Tactic: Walk slowly through cover, listening for covey calls.
Tip: Hunt early mornings or just after rainfall for active birds.

Mule Deer

Goodyear offers archery hunters convenient access to Units 39 and 40B, both known for producing quality desert mule deer.

OTC Archery Season: January (rut), August (velvet bucks).
Best Areas: North Buckeye Hills and farther west near Palo Verde.
Tactic: Glassing hillsides from ridgelines is key.

These areas offer a fair-chase, low-pressure hunting experience just minutes from the city.

Javelina

This often-overlooked game animal is a local favorite, especially during the general firearm and archery seasons in January and February.

Unit 39 and 40B: Both are consistently productive.
Method: Early glassing and slow stalking through thick brush or desert scrub.
Fun Fact: Javelina have poor eyesight but excellent smell—wind direction is critical.

Dove and Waterfowl

Agricultural fields and water features south of Goodyear support robust dove populations and limited duck opportunities.

Dove Season: Opens September 1st—expect high volume shooting in the first week.
Best Spots: Robbins Butte and field edges near South Perryville Road.
Ammo: Steel shot may be required—check regulations depending on zone.

Hunting License and Permit Requirements

To hunt legally around Goodyear:

Arizona Hunting License: Purchase online from the Arizona Game and Fish Department or local retailers.
Tags: Required for big game—OTC archery tags are available year-round.
State Trust Land: Access requires a Recreational Use Permit, available online.
Robbins Butte and similar areas: Follow all posted regulations and check for seasonal closures.

Always download or carry the latest AZGFD regulations and check unit boundaries in advance.

Essential Gear for Desert Hunting

Footwear

Wear lightweight, breathable desert boots with strong tread—the terrain is often rocky, dusty, and hot.

Camo & Clothing

Use light desert patterns with long sleeves and moisture-wicking layers, and consider Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for safely carrying your firearm. Temperatures can swing drastically from morning to afternoon.

Optics

10x42 binoculars are essential. A spotting scope is a bonus in open country when glassing for mule deer or javelina.

Navigation Tools

Offline GPS apps like onX Hunt or GAIA GPS are vital. Always carry backup power or printed maps.

Top Hunting Tips for Goodyear, Arizona

Scout Early: Many areas near Goodyear are multi-use, so visit ahead of time to identify animal trails, feeding zones, and legal access points.
Use the Wind: Especially for javelina and deer, approach from downwind and avoid skyline exposure.
Time Your Hunts: Early morning and sunset are peak activity windows. Desert game beds during the heat of the day.
Respect Boundaries: Urban sprawl is expanding—use GPS and AZGFD maps to ensure you're not crossing into private land.

Local Resources and Amenities

Gear Shops: Visit Sportsman’s Warehouse in Goodyear or Bass Pro Shops in Glendale.
Lodging: Affordable hotels and extended stays are available along I-10 near Estrella Parkway.
Ammo & Licenses: Walmart and Ace Hardware often carry basic supplies, but buy tags and licenses online for convenience.

Why Goodyear Is a Great Hunting Base

Goodyear gives you rapid access to premier hunting zones while still enjoying city conveniences. With rich desert terrain, varied game species, and year-round hunting seasons, it’s a hidden gem for weekend hunters and seasoned outdoorsmen. Whether you're pursuing javelina in January or doves in September, Goodyear puts the best of Arizona hunting right at your doorstep.