Arizona Rule Change Protects the Future of Bowhunting

November 4th, 2025 – Pope and Young Club, North America’s leading bowhunting conservation organization, commends the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) for repealing rule R12-4-216. The previous wording allowed for abuses surrounding the issuance of these permits which greatly increased the numbers of permits afield.

This important rule change comes after extensive input from the public and key conservation organizations, including Pope and Young. In recent years, Arizona has seen a substantial increase in crossbow permittees participating in archery hunts, as well as higher harvest success rates with crossbows during archery seasons. These shifts raised concerns about maintaining the integrity and challenge of traditional archery hunting.

The repeal of this rule reaffirms Arizona’s commitment to preserving the heritage and future of bowhunting. By maintaining distinct seasons for archery equipment, AZGFD is helping ensure sustainable wildlife management and continued opportunity for future generations of bowhunters.

“This decision protects the spirit and tradition of bowhunting,” stated Kyle Lipke, Pope and Young Youth Coordinator. “It helps secure fair-chase bowhunting experiences and keeps the focus on developing skill, patience, and respect for wildlife—values we want to pass on to the next generation.”

Pope and Young remains steadfast in supporting wildlife agencies across North America in efforts that safeguard the future of bowhunting, promote ethical hunting practices, and ensure opportunities for today’s youth and tomorrow’s conservation leaders.

About Pope and Young:
The Pope and Young Club is North America's leading voice in support of bowhunting and related conservation initiatives. If you're a fair chase, ethical bowhunter who cares about preserving, protecting, and promoting the culture and future of bowhunting, then you belong in the Pope and Young Club. Join today at www.pope-young.org.