New Mexico

[SDHNTR]

I want to apply for a really good elk (probably rifle) hunt in NM. I realize that the draw odds will be really low but I want it that way as my strategy is to apply for really good, and hard to draw, units in many states. What units should I be looking at? I'm aware of the once and a lifetime type hunts like the Valle Vidal but what other high quality units should I be looking at. Plenty of accessible public land is also a must. Thanks.

 

[tmoniz]

That's one state I have not researched. I guess I should start.
If you are thinking of wyoming, drop me a line. I have some experience with that state.

 

[wmidbrook]

If I'm not mistaken, I do think there are rifle hunts only on private land with "ranch only" tags in primitive weapons units--these go for like $2,000 - $3,000 on up.

If you're not adverse to using a muzzleloader instead of a rifle, you can get landowner authorizations (unit wide) for primitive weapon units. The cheapest I've heard of is $800. Then you have to buy a tag on top of that--$500 - $800 depending on whether it's a Quality/HighDemand or regular hunt.

Anyway, download the regs from last year to get an idea.

The 16 (a,b,...e) units are open to rifle and are in the Gila--hard to draw.

 

[crazyaboutcoues]

try this website

www.gilawildernesshunting.com

 

[NewMexElkoholic]

Valles Caldera unit 6B
Unit 34
Unit 16, 15 (16 B is wilderness unit)

Depends if you want quantity or quality. And don't bother coming if you are'nt in great shape.....