Unit 40BWM (Mohawk and Copper Mountains, unit 40B)

Unit 40B divides into three bighorn hunt complexes — Mohawk–Copper, the Gila Mountains north of Cipriano Pass, and the Tinajas Altas south of it. This is the Mohawk–Copper hunt.

The two ranges

The Copper Mountains reach 2,841 feet and the Mohawk Mountains 2,734 on our terrain layer. Both hold sheep throughout, and both are classic isolated desert ranges rising straight off creosote flats that sit barely above 900 feet in places.

Access, and the restricted east side

Both ranges can be reached by exiting south off Interstate 8 at Avenue 40E, the Tacna exit. Once off the highway several routes get you to either range. One hard limit: access on the east side of the Mohawks is limited and controlled by Luke Air Force Base, and a special permit is required.

The population and its movements

Sheep numbers in 40B have been stable for the past two to three years at an estimated 250 animals. They are distributed throughout the mountain ranges and their movements are highly variable. Plan for the ram you found to have moved.

Red-stained horns

Rams in this country often show a unique red staining from rubbing against limber bush, which grows only south of I-8 and west of SR 85. It's a recognisable local trait rather than a defect.

What the country asks of you

The guide is direct: hunting this unit can be quite a challenge, the rugged terrain and arid conditions will challenge even the best of hunters, and knowledge of the area is paramount. Quality optics and patience are needed. Preparing well in advance and scouting beforehand pays off.

Rifle success on these tags runs about 75 percent. Sort the access before you plan a single morning.

The permits you need

A large portion of unit 40B including these ranges is on the Barry M. Goldwater Range, where access is subject to military operations and closure and requires an Access Permit through iSportsman at luke.isportsman.net. On BMGR-West, 40B is open to hunting under R12-4-304 and R12-4-318 except in Restricted Areas, which are closed to all public recreation. On BMGR-East, only bighorn tag holders and their named participants may access designated areas, and only with a Special Use Permit from Luke AFB. The east side of the Mohawks specifically needs that special permit.

Knowing your location and staying clear of unauthorised areas is your responsibility. Luke AFB for BMGR-East: 623-856-7216 or 623-856-1758. MCAS Yuma for BMGR-West: 928-269-3115.

Glass from the base

Use 10 or 20 power from the bottom of the range before you climb. Sheep left with escape room above them will often stand and watch; a direct climb pushes them out unseen. Once you're on the mountain, stay within the lower two-thirds and stop frequently to sit, glass and listen for rock-fall.

Scout early, and in the rut

Knowledge of the area is paramount, so get the permits in time to scout the real ground. Late August into September is the rut and the best chance to see several rams together and judge them. Accept that September locations don't predict December ones.

Desert self-sufficiency

Low, hot and arid, with 140 tanks and 17 springs across a very large unit. Carry every litre you'll drink plus a vehicle reserve, take two spares and recovery gear, and coordinate your entry and exit with range security. All off-road vehicles on the range must be street legal.