Sonora Desert Hunts

Sonora Desert Hunts operates exclusive access to private ranches across Sonora, Mexico—some of the richest hunting ground in North America. They've been running guided hunts for over 8 years, focusing on three species that draw hunters from across the continent: Coues deer, desert mule deer, and desert bighorn sheep.

The core appeal is simple: managed genetics, proven habitat, and professional guides who know every canyon and waterhole.

Desert Mule Deer Hunts - Trophy bucks averaging 180–200" SCI (potential for 220+) - Duration: 6–8 hunting days - Season: December–January (peak rut mid-January) - Method: Spot-and-stalk from high-rack vehicles and on foot - Shot distances: Typically 150–350 yards - Price: $17,500 - Physical demand: Moderate (long glassing sessions, ridge hiking)

Coues Deer Hunts - Bucks averaging 100–115" SCI, with 120+ inch opportunities - Duration: 5–7 hunting days - Season: Late December through January (peak rut activity) - Method: 90% spot-and-stalk with extensive glassing - Shot distances: 200–500 yards depending on terrain - Price: $7,500 - Physical demand: Moderate (long hours glassing, variable elevation)

Desert Bighorn Sheep - Rams consistently 170–180+ SCI - Duration: 8–10 days (plus travel) - Season: November–March (best weather and rut) - Method: Free-range, spot-and-stalk in remote mountain ranges - Shot distances: Typically 200–400 yards - Price: $75,000 - Physical demand: Moderate to High (mountain terrain, elevation)

Guides are native Sonorans with year-round presence on the ranches—they scout game, manage habitat, and know the terrain intimately. Hunts combine high-rack vehicle mobility for coverage with foot stalks when animals are located. For Coues deer, expect 90% spot-and-stalk with tripod-mounted spotting scopes. Mule deer hunts involve more vehicle glassing with selective stalks.

Rifle recommendations: .270, .300 Win Mag, 7mm, or 6.5 Creedmoor. Archery available for experienced bowhunters with advance notice.

Sonora, Mexico is 3 hours from Tucson, Arizona and 90 miles from Hermosillo (where direct flights from Phoenix arrive). Sonora Desert Hunts picks hunters up at the airport and handles all firearm permits and customs paperwork. Rifles can be brought across the border; meat can be deboned and frozen for transport home without permits.

Operating Season: December 1–April 1

They're members of: - Dallas Safari Club (DSC) - Grand Slam Club/Ovis (GSCO)

Their hunts qualify for SCI record book entry and are conducted under fair chase and conservation-based guidelines. They emphasize sustainable game management—harvesting only mature animals and maintaining healthy herds across all private ranches.

"Spots are extremely limited. The permits are tight, the trophies are real, and the desert is calling."

Desert mule deer and Coues deer tags are guaranteed through outfitter allocation but book 12–18 months in advance due to demand during the rut. Desert bighorn tags are very limited and strictly managed.

Contact: - Phone: (520) 815-2729 - Email: [email protected] - Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM