Arizona's 2025-26 Quail Hunting Forecast Points to a Tough Season Ahead

Arizona's 2025-26 Quail Hunting Forecast Points to a Tough Season Ahead Arizona's avid quail hunters should prepare for a challenging season, according to the highly anticipated 2025-26 forecast released by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). The outlook for all three primary species – Gambel’s, scaled, and Mearns’ quail – is below average, primarily driven by persistent drought conditions that have hampered successful reproduction across the state. 😔 The Bottom Line: A Statewide Decline in Quail Numbers The annual forecast, compiled from field observations by wildlife managers across the state, paints a sobering picture. The general consensus is that quail numbers have declined from last season, with poor brood production observed this past summer. "Hunters are going to have to work harder for their birds this year," said a department spokesperson. "The lack of timely rainfall has really been the deciding factor." 🌵 Species-by-Species Breakdown: The 2025 Quail Forecast 🐦 Gambel's Quail Outlook The outlook for Gambel's quail, Arizona's most widespread and iconic upland game bird, is particularly concerning. Populations are expected to be well below average in most regions. The Best Bet: The western and southwestern parts of the state, including hunting areas near Yuma and Kingman, may offer slightly better opportunities, though still below long-term averages. Poor Conditions: The central and southeastern regions, traditionally strongholds, are forecast to be especially slow. Hunters in these areas will need to focus efforts near reliable water sources and the most robust desert washes. 🔍 Scaled Quail Outlook The news is similarly grim for scaled quail, also known as blue quail or cottontops. Their populations are also projected to be below average for the 2025 season. Limited Range: These birds are found primarily in the southeastern grasslands of Arizona. Key to Success: As with other species, finding areas that received localized summer rain will be critical. Hunters should concentrate on regions where forb and grass growth was sufficient to provide cover and food. ⛰️ Mearns' Quail Outlook The forecast for Mearns' quail, a prized species for many dedicated hunters, is the most variable but leans negative. The outlook is below average to poor. Drought Impact: Mearns' quail are highly dependent on lush, grassy cover, which thrives only with abundant summer "monsoon" rains. The inconsistent and insufficient rainfall has left much of their habitat in the southeastern mountains too sparse to support strong numbers. Hunter Strategy: Success will be spotty and entirely dependent on finding those isolated canyons or drainages that caught enough rain to support better habitat conditions. 💧 The Root Cause: How Drought Affects Quail Populations The primary factor behind the bleak forecast is a simple equation of nature: quail need rain. Drought impacts quail in two critical ways: Habitat and Cover: Lack of rain leads to poor growth of annual plants and grasses. This reduces the overhead cover quail need to hide from predators and raises the risk of predation. Food Supply: Insufficient rainfall results in poor seed production from plants and reduces the abundance of insects, both of which are essential food sources for adult quail and their rapidly growing chicks. 🗓️ 2025-26 Arizona Quail Season Dates Despite the challenging forecast, the seasons will proceed as scheduled, offering hunters the opportunity to pursue these game birds. Gambel’s and Scaled Quail Season: Friday, Oct. 10, 2025 – Sunday, Feb. 9, 2026. Mearns’ Quail Season: Friday, Nov. 28, 2025 – Sunday, Feb. 9, 2026. 👍 Tips for Hunters in a Tough Season A challenging season doesn't mean a fruitless one. Here are some key strategies for hunters heading into the field: Scout Diligently: Pre-season scouting is more important than ever. Use online maps to identify areas that might have held moisture and then put boots on the ground to look for sign. Find the Water: Focus your efforts near reliable, permanent water sources. In dry years, quail are forced to drink frequently. Hunt the Best Habitat: Target the lushest, greenest areas you can find, as these will hold the vast majority of birds. Be Patient and Persistent: You may have to cover more ground and work harder for each covey rise. Adjust your expectations and enjoy the experience of being in the Arizona outdoors. For the most current information and detailed hunting regulations, hunters should always consult the official Arizona Game and Fish Department website.