Known for its natural beauty and diversity, the Land of Enchantment offers a variety of habitats for many different animals, making it an appealing place for hunters. Hunting opportunities in New Mexico include species such as deer, pronghorn antelope, elk, and dove as well as exotic species like the Oryx. Savvy hunters may want to check out the top spots for their preferred type of hunting before heading out. Here is a look at some of the top spots for hunting in New Mexico.
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- The Cibola National Forest and the Santa Fe National Forest rate as two of the best public land areas in the nation for hunting big elk. According to Field & Stream magazine, "Tags for the Zuni Mountains and Mount Taylor areas in Cibola and in the Jemez area in Santa Fe are a bit easier to draw than the coveted tags in the Gila National Forest to the south."
- For mule deer, hunting in the northwest region of New Mexico often brings success, especially as deer migrate from Colorado later in the season. Units 2A, 2B, and 2C are known for large populations of bucks, particularly big ones. Game & Fish magazine reported that big game biologist Bill Taylor advised hunters in this region not to shoot the first bull they find because "you never know what might be over the next ridge."
- Ranked by Game & Fish magazine as the second best state for hunting pronghorn antelope bucks based on Boone and Crockett results, New Mexico offers some giants. The best counties include Mora and Colfax in the northeast corner of the state and Socorro, Catron, and Lincoln in the central region.
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- For hunting black bears in New Mexico, a great place with a high bear allotment is New Mexico Black Bear Management Zone 5, an area that includes Gila National Forest. Seasons alternate between firearms and archery, but once the bear limit is reached, the season is closed.
- For smaller game, hunters can find plenty of javelina in the Southern Black Range. The javelina there are large, the hunting season is three months, and it is fairly easy to get a tag for the area. The Florida Mountains are another good spot for hunting javelina as well as Persian ibex in New Mexico.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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