AZ has long tried to maintain hunting opportunities for ALL Americans, regardless of financial status. Until this ruling, an AZ elk hunt was affordable to the majority of hunters throughout the United States. Now, the AZ Fish and Game Commision will be forced to consider several rule changes in order to bring game management back into balance. This will including options like making the sale, transport, or possesion out of state of AZ game animal products illegal (this will eliminate USO’s argument), depriving many AZ residents and out of state residents from an important source of revenue.
Other options include eleminating out of state hunting of trophy animals completely, increasing the cost of non-resident tags, or requiring attendance of in-state hunter-safety courses which will increase the difficulty level for potential out of state hunters. If you dislike seeing the potential coopting of States Rights to manage their wildlife by the Federal Government, elemination of hunting oppurtunities for the residents of states who have the most invested in wildlife, and the perception of excessive greed by one of the biggest guide and outfitting services in America, please contact USO and let them know that You don’t like what they are doing. Also, if you have considered a hunt with USO, instead try a local outfitter in whatever state you were planning your hunt in. Believe me, a trophy elk hunt in AZ will have a far greater chance of success with a guide that lives year round in the hunt area.
