In Unit 3A, glassing with binoculars can be a very effective technique for locating elk in the open areas. Once elk are spotted, a stalk can be made. Be aware that it is not legal to locate animals, and then use a vehicle to make a pursuit; this is considered hunting from a motor vehicle. In the juniper-woodlands, successful hunting techniques include calling, still-hunting, and hunting near watering areas.
As with all hunting, pre-season scouting to locate animals prior to the hunt is important. An Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest map can be purchased at any National Forest District office (the closest ones to this area are in Lakeside and Overgaard), or at the Arizona Game and Fish Department Region I office in Pinetop. Dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest land in the southwestern corner of the unit. Although the weather in this unit is moderate, be prepared for snow and cold temperatures on late hunts. There is also the potential for inclement weather during the earlier hunts, but precipitation here is generally lighter at higher elevations to the south.
The area around the cultivated land of the Dry Lake Farm off State Route 377 is posted and closed to hunting. Successful hunters will usually find elk somewhere between the fields and adjacent bedding areas, so getting onto the farm is not necessary. Access to this area is either by State Route 277 or 377 and two-track roads off the highways or the Zeniff road. The Zeniff road runs between the two highways and is the route used by most hunters. This road is a well-maintained dirt road, driveable under most weather conditions. Access to the 3A east area is through the Hay Hollow road that runs north from the Snowflake-Concho road, and by the Woodruff-Hay Hollow road that goes east from the south end of Woodruff.
