Nestled in the southwestern United States, New Mexico boasts a diverse and stunning landscape that beckons hunters from far and wide. Whether you’re an avid outdoors enthusiast or a seasoned hunter looking for your next challenge, the Land of Enchantment offers a rich tapestry of hunting opportunities throughout the year. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish meticulously manages these hunting seasons, ensuring both the conservation of wildlife populations and unforgettable experiences for hunters.
From the majestic elk roaming the rugged mountain terrains to the elusive deer, cunning antelope, and an array of small game and upland birds, New Mexico’s wildlife is as diverse as its landscapes. The New Mexico hunting seasons are intricately timed to harmonize with the natural rhythms of the animal kingdom, providing hunters with unique chances to test their skills and reconnect with the great outdoors.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of hunting seasons in New Mexico, exploring the diverse opportunities, regulations, and essential information every hunter should know. Whether you’re planning a thrilling expedition for the big game or seeking the camaraderie of a turkey hunt, our guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to make the most of your New Mexico hunting adventure.
When To Go Hunting In New Mexico?
The best time to hunt in New Mexico varies with species. Mule deer hunting is greatest in the winter, whereas elk hunting is best in the rut in late September and early October. While duck season runs from October to January, the greatest times to hunt quail, grouse, and pheasants are in the fall and spring. Because there is so much diverse wildlife in New Mexico, hunters come from all around. The state is home to several birds and animals that make up common game.
When Does Hunting Season Begin?
Here are New Mexico’s most recent hunting seasons, along with a complete season calendar for 2023–2024.
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
| Antelope – Muzzleloader (Private Land) 1 Unit 4. Youth only. | Aug 5, 2023 | Aug 7, 2023 |
| Antelope – 2nd Muzzleloader Limited Units 29 , 50, and 52 (Youth only) | Aug 5, 2023 | Aug 7, 2023 |
| Antelope – Bow Private Land Unit 4 | Aug 8, 2023 | Aug 16, 2023 |
| Antelope – Bow (Private Land) Unit 14, 46, 48, 54, 55 | Aug 12, 2023 | Aug 20, 2023 |
| Antelope – Bow Limited | Aug 12, 2023 | Aug 20, 2023 |
| Antelope – 1st Muzzleloader Limited Unit 50, 52 | Aug 26, 2023 | Aug 28, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon (Private Land) 1 Unit 14, 46, 48, 54, 55 | Aug 26, 2023 | Aug 28, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon Limited – Youth 1 Youth Only. Units 2, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 47, 56, 58, 59 | Aug 26, 2023 | Aug 28, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon Limited 1 Units 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 47, 56, 58, 59. | Aug 26, 2023 | Aug 28, 2023 |
| Antelope – 4th Muzzleloader Limited Unit 28 (McGregor Range) | Sep 2, 2023 | Sep 3, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon – Mobility Impaired Mobility Impaired Only. Units 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 47, 56, 58, 59. | Sep 30, 2023 | Oct 2, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon (Private Land) 2 Unit 14, 46, 48, 54, 55 | Sep 30, 2023 | Oct 2, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon Limited 2 Units 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 47, 56, 57, 58, 59. | Sep 30, 2023 | Oct 2, 2023 |
| Antelope – 3rd Muzzleloader Limited Unit 29 | Sep 30, 2023 | Oct 2, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon (Private Land) 3 Unit 14, 46, 48, 54, 55 | Oct 7, 2023 | Oct 9, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon Limited 3 Units 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21, 24, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 56, 58, 59. | Oct 7, 2023 | Oct 9, 2023 |
| Antelope – Any Weapon Limited – Youth 2 Youth Only. Units 41, 47, 56, 57, 58, 59 | Oct 14, 2023 | Oct 16, 2023 |
| Bear – Early Any Weapon Zone 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11. See regulations for units. Dogs allowed. | Aug 16, 2023 | Aug 31, 2023 |
| Bear – Bow Zone 1-14. Dogs are not allowed. | Sep 1, 2023 | Sep 24, 2023 |
| Bear – Late Any Weapon Zone 1-14. Seasons vary depending on unit. See regulations. Dogs allowed. | Sep 25, 2023 | Dec 15, 2023 |
| Bobcat Statewide | Nov 1, 2023 | Mar 15, 2024 |
| Coyote No limit. No closed season. | Jan 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Deer – Bow (Private Land) Unit 8, 46, 54, 55. Private lands only. Unlimited tags available in most areas. | Sep 1, 2023 | Sep 24, 2023 |
| Deer – Premium Statewide Statewide. | Sep 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – Early Bow Draw Limited Unit 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 56, 57, 58, 59. | Sep 1, 2023 | Sep 24, 2023 |
| Deer – Early Restricted Muzzleloader Unit 9, 52. Special restrictions on muzzleloader type. See regulations | Sep 27, 2023 | Oct 3, 2023 |
| Deer – 1st Muzzleloader Limited Unit 2, 7, 10, 14, 41, 42, 45, 47, 48, 56, 57, 58, 59. | Sep 27, 2023 | Oct 3, 2023 |
| Deer – Muzzleloader (Private Land) Units 8, 46, 54, 55 and 55B private lands only. Unlimited tags available in most areas. | Sep 27, 2023 | Oct 3, 2023 |
| Deer – 2nd Muzzleloader Limited Unit 6 | Sep 30, 2023 | Oct 4, 2023 |
| Deer – Any Legal Weapon (Private Land) Unit 8, 46, 54, 55, 55B. Sesaon dates vary by unit. Check regulations for unit specific season dates. Private lands only. Unlimited tags available in most areas. | Oct 14, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – Late Restricted Muzzleloader Unit 33. Special restrictions on muzzleloader type. See regulations | Oct 21, 2023 | Oct 25, 2023 |
| Deer- 3rd Muzzleloader Limited Unit 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 43. | Oct 21, 2023 | Oct 25, 2023 |
| Deer – Any Weapon Draw Limited Unit 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59. Seasons vary by unit. Please check regulations. | Oct 21, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – 6th Muzzleloader Limited Unit 12 | Oct 28, 2023 | Nov 1, 2023 |
| Deer – 4th Muzzleloader Limited Unit 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27. | Oct 28, 2023 | Nov 1, 2023 |
| Deer – 5th Muzzleloader Limited Unit 34 | Nov 4, 2023 | Nov 8, 2023 |
| Deer – 7th Muzzleloader Limited Unit 19 Dec 2, 2023 Dec 6, 2023 | Dec 2, 2023 | Dec 6, 2023 |
| Deer – Late Bow Draw Limited Unit 2, 8, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Elk – Muzzleloader 3 (Private Land) Unit 13. Antlerless elk only (Also includes Crossbow and Archery) (License limited to any five consecutive days within a season listed). | Jan 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2023 |
| Elk – Bow – Early (Private Land) Unit 2, 4, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6C, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16A, 22, 16C, 16B/22, 16C16D, 16E, 17, 21A, 21B, 23, 24, 34, 36, 45, 48, 49, 50-53. | Sep 1, 2023 | Sep 14, 2023 |
| Elk – Bow – Late (Private Land) Unit 2, 4, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6C, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16A, 22, 16C, 16B/22, 16C16D, 16E, 17, 21A, 21B, 23, 24, 34, 36, 45, 48, 49, 50-53. | Sep 15, 2023 | Sep 24, 2023 |
| Elk – Premium Statewide Statewide. Check regulations for more info. | Oct 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Elk – Bow Limited Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Oct 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Elk – Any Weapon Limited Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Oct 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Elk – Any Weapon 1 (Private Land) Unit 4. License limited to any five consecutive days within a season | Oct 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Elk – Muzzleloader 1 (Private Land) Unit 2, 6A, 6C, 7, 10, 36, 45, 48, 52, 53 (Also includes Crossbow and Archery) (License limited to any five consecutive days within a season listed) | Oct 7, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Elk – Youth Any Weapon (Private Land) Unit 16C, 16E, 23, 24, 34. | Oct 7, 2023 | Oct 11, 2023 |
| Elk – Youth Bow & Muzzleloader (Private land) Unit 13, 15, 17. Limited to 5 consecutive days within the hunt period. | Oct 7, 2023 | Oct 11, 2023 |
| Elk – Muzzleloader Limited Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Oct 7, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Elk – Any Weapon 2 (Private land) Unit 5A, 5B, 12, 16B/22, 21A, 21B, 49, 50, 51 | Oct 7, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Elk – Any Weapon 3 (Private land) Unit 2, 10, 6A, 6C, 7, 16A, 16C, 16D, 36, 45, 48, 52, 53. | Oct 14, 2023 | Dec 13, 2023 |
| Elk – Muzzleloader 2 (Private Land) Unit 9, 13, 15, 16E, 17, 23, 24, 34 (Also includes Crossbow and Archery) (License limited to any five consecutive days within a season listed). | Oct 21, 2023 | Dec 13, 2023 |
| Elk – Any Weapon 4 (Private Land) Unit 16E, 23, 24, 34. | Oct 31, 2023 | Dec 13, 2023 |
| Statewide | Nov 1, 2023 | Mar 15, 2024 |
| Goose – Central Flyway Conservation Order Light goose no limit. | Feb 1, 2023 | Mar 10, 2023 |
| Grouse – Dusky (Blue) Daily bag limit of 3. 6 in possession | Sep 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Javelina – Statewide OTC Statewide except Unit 19, 23-28. JAV-1-100, JAV-1-104 and JAV-2-103 Hunts: Javelina will be in small, isolated groups except in Units 23–27. | Jan 1, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 |
| Mountain lion – Statewide Before hunting, hunters must verify their preferred zone is still open. Check online: www.wildlife.state.nm.us/hunting/information-by-animal/big-game/cougar or call: 1-877-950-5466. Mandatory Cougar Identification Course NMDGF requires all cougar hunters to successfully complete a cougar identification course. The cougar ID number is issued upon successful completion of the course through your NMDGF online account. | Apr 1, 2023 | Mar 31, 2024 |
| Pheasant – Statewide OTC Excludes Valencia County. Daily bag limit of 3 males. 6 in possession | Dec 8, 2023 | Dec 11, 2023 |
| Sandhill Crane – Middle Rio Grande Valley 5 | Jan 14, 2023 | Jan 15, 2023 |
| Bighorn Sheep – Desert Ram Unit 13, 17, 19, 20, 26, 27. Seasons vary by unit. Please see regulations. | Aug 18, 2023 | Jan 3, 2024 |
| Bighorn Sheep – Rocky Mountain Ewe Unit 45, 49, 50, 53. Bow Only. Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Sep 1, 2023 | Sep 10, 2023 |
| Bighorn Sheep – Rocky Mountain Ewe Unit 45, 49, 50, and 53. Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Sep 16, 2023 | Oct 4, 2023 |
| Bighorn Sheep – Rocky Mountain Ram Unit 16B, 22, 23, 24, 45, 53, 55, 49, 50, 58. Seasons vary by unit. See regulations. | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Turkey – Spring Youth Only OTC An early youth-only turkey hunt is available April 7–9 in all open units for spring hunting. Draw-permit areas are not open for youth-only spring OTC hunting, unless specified on the permit. | Apr 7, 2023 | Apr 9, 2023 |
| Turkey – Spring OTC Areas Open for Spring OTC License Hunts: April 15–May 15 STATEWIDE: Except the following CLOSED AREAS: Unit 2A (areas east of U.S. Hwy. 550 and north of NM Hwy. 173); Unit 2B (areas in the Carson National Forest), Unit 2C (areas in the Carson National Forest); Units 6B, 8, 19, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31; Bernardo WMA, Jackson Lake WMA, La Joya WMA, Marquez/LBar WMA, Prairie Chicken WMAs, Red Rock WMA, Valle Vidal, W.S. Huey WMA. | Apr 15, 2023 | May 15, 2023 |
| Turkey – Spring Limited Unit 2A (Areas east of U.S. 550 and north of NM Hwy. 173) – ) – Any Legal – Youth Only Unit 2B and 2C (Carson National Forest) – Any Legal Unit 6B (Valles Caldera National Preserve) – Any Legal – Apr. 15–30 *Hunter orientation required. Unit 8 – Any Legal *Shotgun, bow or crossbow, except in Sandia Ranger District which is bow and crossbow only. Unit 9 – Marquez/L Bar WMA – Any Legal – NM Resident Only Unit 26 and 27 (Gould’s Turkey) – Any Legal – Once-in-a-Lifetime – May 1–May 30 Unit 30 Washington Ranch and BLM Black River Management Area 3 (Youth Only) – Any Legal Apr. 28–30 (TUR–1–107) & May 5–May 7 (TUR–1–108) This is a special hunting opportunity for youth hunters to harvest a Rio Grande turkey on the Black River. Hunter orientation is required and will be held on the Friday afternoon before the designated hunt begins. Youth hunters will be paired with a conservation officer for the hunt. For additional information about this opportunity, contact the Southeast Area office: 575-624-6135. Unit 55A – Valle Vidal – Any Legal (east side only from 5/1–5/15) | Apr 15, 2023 | May 15, 2023 |
| Turkey – Fall Bow OTC STATEWIDE: Except the closed areas listed below. CLOSED: Unit 2A (areas east of U.S. Hwy. 550 and north of NM Hwy. 173); Unit 2B (areas in the Carson National Forest); Unit 2C (areas in the Carson National Forest); Units 6B, 8, 14, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 33, 38, 49, 50, 53; Bernardo WMA, Bill Evans WMA, Edward Sargent WMA, Jackson Lake WMA, La Joya WMA, Lake Roberts WMA, Marquez/LBar WMA, Prairie Chicken WMAs, Red Rock WMA, Rio Chama WMA, Sugarite Canyon State Park, Valle Vidal and W.S. Huey WMA. | Sep 1, 2023 | Nov 30, 2023 |
| Turkey – Fall Any Weapon OTC STATEWIDE: Except the closed areas listed below. CLOSED: Unit 2A (areas east of U.S. Hwy. 550 and north of NM Hwy. 173); Unit 2B (areas in the Carson National Forest); Unit 2C (areas in the Carson National Forest); Units 6B, 8, 14, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 33, 38, 49, 50, 53; Bernardo WMA, Bill Evans WMA, Edward Sargent WMA, Jackson Lake WMA, La Joya WMA, Lake Roberts WMA, Marquez/LBar WMA, Prairie Chicken WMAs, Red Rock WMA, Rio Chama WMA, Sugarite Canyon State Park, Valle Vidal and W.S. Huey WMA. | Nov 1, 2023 | Nov 30, 2023 |
Hunting Rules In New Mexico
Youth
In New York, hunting is prohibited for minors. Only 13 to 15-year-olds may hunt deer and bears during certain seasons, and only certain take methods are permitted unless they are accompanied by a licensed adult.
A Columbus Day weekend hunt is open to 13 to 15-year-olds. You can shoot one bear and one deer as a young hunter. Adults watching over young hunters aren’t permitted to go with them or have access to weapons.
General Regulations
When shooting deer in New Mexico, hunters are required to abide by rules and restrictions. Don’t do the following.
- Dumping & Polluting
- Gun misuse
- Neglecting and Carelessly ignoring a fire
- Unlicensed hunting.
- You shouldn’t shoot more than one deer a day unless necessary.
- Using bright lights around cattle or wildlife.
- Making prank calls using electronics.
- Camping within 300 yards of a well, tank, or watering hole.
- Vehicle-based attacks.
- Driving in restricted streets.
- Hunting by aircraft.
- Shooting within 150 feet of an occupied building (including vacated and abandoned buildings).
- Cameras used for remote animal spotting.
- Interfering with legal hunters.
Other Regulations
- Regarding how to get rid of leftover game, New Mexico has its own set of regulations. Any food you intend to consume while working in the field will require transportation. You are not have to take out the ribs or internal organs, though.
- The hunter must find any injured animals as soon as possible and treat them.
- To squander an animal means to take only its head and antlers and discard the remainder of the body.
Hunting License
A license is required in New Mexico before hunting. Population management hunts and access validation are necessary for deer hunters.
You may purchase licenses and tags in person, over the phone, or online. To enter the drawing and go big game hunting, you must apply. Not all hunters obtain permits. So, make backup hunting strategies. The deadline to apply for deer draw licenses is March 22, 2023. Up to four hunters may apply per application for a deer draw license.
Licenses and permits obtained online must be printed. The regular paper is excellent. You need a tag to go deer hunting. An E-tag can also be used.
You will receive a combined license and tag if you decide against the electronic tag. This document might take the place of one you still have with you. Licenses ordered in advance can be sent. Delivery of a license might take 14 days.
Anyone who hunts in New Mexico must possess a current license. Certain New Mexico game kinds could require more expensive licenses and fees.
Who Needs a Valid Fishing License In The State Of New Mexico?
In order to fish or take fish from any state waterways under its authority, fishermen must be at least 12 years old and in possession of a valid fishing license. A few licenses are given away without charge to numerous individuals subject to the following rules:
- All NMDGF offices and quality deer license sellers provide free licenses to New Mexico citizens aged 70 and above.
- Veterans who qualify as 100% handicapped may apply for free licenses at the NMDGF Headquarters in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
- Non-residents are not eligible for complimentary senior fishing licenses.
- Residents of New Mexico with significant physical or developmental impairments may get handicapped fishing licenses.
Except for the license granted to residents with disabilities, if you have one of the aforementioned licenses, you are also exempt from additional criteria like the habitat stamp, habitat management & access validation, or a second-rod validation. According to the statute, some people are additionally granted further exemptions. You do not need to buy a fishing license to be able to fish in New Mexico’s waterways if you fall under one of the following categories:
- Minor anglers, including New Mexicans and non-New Mexicans, who are under 12.In the meantime, the following people receive special permits at reduced prices:
- Anglers aged 12 to 17 who live in New Mexico or who are non-residents can purchase junior fishing licenses.
- For fishermen and residents of New Mexico aged 65 to 69, senior fishing licenses are available.
Where Are The Public Hunting Areas In New Mexico?
| Location | Acres | Zip | Game |
| Mora | 850 | 87752 | Duck |
| Taos | 13,304 | 87556 | Elk, Mule Deer, Exotics |
| Mora | 1,901 | 87752 | Duck |
| Taos | 5,416 | 87571 | Elk, Mule Deer, Turkey, Exotics |
| San Miguel | 623 | 87701 | Duck |
| Roosevelt | 21,621 | 88125 | Mule Deer, Exotics |
| San Juan | 840 | 87401 | Duck |
| Colfax | 33,116 | 87718 | Elk, Mule Deer, Turkey, Exotics |
| Rio Arriba | 20,209 | 87520 | Elk, Turkey, Exotics |
| Socorro | 1,675 | 87006 | Duck, Exotics |
New Mexico’s Best Public Hunting Land:
Longer multiple-species hunts are a terrific way for hunters to get the finest combination on public hunting areas in New Mexico. The hunting experience that people have on the hunting grounds in New Mexico fosters a special awareness that is distinct from hunting for a specific species. Additionally, September is the finest month of the year for hunters who travel to New Mexico since all large game species are in the state’s hunting grounds. According to the animals’ hunting seasons, hunters can also pursue their prey at various periods of the year.
New Mexico Public Hunting Land:
Nearly 9,920,000 acres of land are included in the public hunting areas, which offers significant chances for hunters who visit these regions. Over 100,000 resident and non-resident hunters visit hunting grounds in this state each year to pursue their prey. Deer are a very common species in this state. To shoot deer in the state, hunters go from various parts of the United States. Luxurious facilities, campsites, toilets, freshwater, and campgrounds are among the amenities present on private hunting grounds.
Hunting New Mexico:
In New Mexico, more than 31 million acres—or 40.5% of the state’s total land area—are available for hunting. Each individual can receive 15 acres of land for solitary hunting, according to the state’s population and land area estimates. Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep, Turkey, Javelina, Bear, Cougar, and several more small and large game species are among those that may be hunted in this state.
New Mexico Hunting Seasons:
The deer shooting season in New Mexico lasts from October through November. Then there is the annual Elk hunting season, which runs from October to December. Additionally, from August 25 to December 31 is the general season for hunting New Pronghorn. New Desert Bighorn Sheep may also be hunted in this state between August 15 and January 15. The New Ibex season runs from November 15 to March 1. Barbary sheep may also be shot on this territory from December 29 through February 28 and from April 1 through March 31. The New Mexico Oryx Season runs from October 12 to February 17.
Additionally, there are two general hunting seasons in this state: the fall general season, which runs from September 1 to October 31, and the spring general season, which runs from April 15 to May 10. In this state, javelina can also be hunted from October 6 to 28 and from March 30 to May 5, respectively. Bear hunting is permitted here from August to November. Then, from April 1 to March 31, Cougar can also be hunted. Finally, small game hunting seasons for Quail, Dusky Blue Grouse, Eurasian Collared Dove, and Squirrel run from November 15 to February 15 and September 1 to November 30 respectively.
A Place to Go Hunting In New Mexico
There are various open hunting areas in New Mexico. Public property may be subject to limitations in some locations. Know them thoroughly before searching.
- BLM-managed areas: Hunting is permitted on BLM-managed property. Each BLM preserve is subject to rules. Be aware of the regulations before hunting on BLM land.
- Forest Land Areas: There are 9,000,000 acres of national forests in New Mexico. Hunting and trapping are done here. Vehicle limitations could apply in some National Forest regions. Periodically, controlled burning is restricted in certain areas.
- The New Mexico Game Commission and Commissioner of Public Lands oversee hunting on State Trust Lands, which the state has set aside for public use. Regulations unique to the site apply.
- Personal Property: The State Property Office, BLM, and/or the Department of Game and Fish in New Mexico arrange hunting access on private property. These agreements permit hunting on several exclusive New Mexico properties for locals and visitors. Each year, these unique contracts are subject to modification.
- Military Reserves: Hunting is permitted in military reserves in New Mexico. Hunts are regulated and canceled by military reservations. Before going hunting on a military reservation, read the rules.
What Guns And Equipment Can I Use During Hunting Season?
Legal Sporting Arms
Legal hunting weapons (big-game hunting weapons) for deer, elk, pronghorn, desert bighorn sheep, ibex, oryx, Barbary sheep, and bear: any centerfire weapon, at the very least.Any muzzle-loading firearm at least, 22 caliber or greater.Any shotgun with a 45 caliber or bigger.410 caliber or greater firing a single slug, any bow, or any crossbow, including muzzle-loading shotguns. Except for pistols, all weapons must be made to be shot from the shoulder. Only bullets intended to expand or fragment upon impact may be used by hunters.
Both tracer bullets and full metal jackets (FMJ) are forbidden. The use of fully automatic weapons is prohibited. Broadheads having cutting edges, whether mechanical or fixed, must be used on arrows and bolts. Light-projecting sights are not permitted on crossbows and bows (lighted pins are OK). Arrows and bolts may not be coated with pharmaceuticals, and they may not be propelled by explosives, gunpowder, or compressed air.
Legal sporting arms for cougar, javelina, and furbearers: any weapon, including a crossbow, shotgun, muzzleloader, compressed air weapon, or shotgun. Except for pistols, all weapons must be made to be shot from the shoulder. Compressed air weapons must be.22 caliber or greater for cougar and javelina, and shotguns must be capable of firing a single slug or #4 buckshot or larger. Broadheads having cutting edges, whether mechanical or fixed, must be used on arrows and bolts. Crossbow and bow sights might not be able to project light. Arrows and bolts may not be coated with pharmaceuticals, and they may not be propelled by explosives, gunpowder, or compressed air.
Bow only: any long, recurve, or composite bow. Draw locks are forbidden. Fixed or mechanical broadheads with cutting edges are required for arrows. Bow sights may not emit light; nevertheless, illuminated pins are permissible. No medicines may be put on an arrow, and compressed air, gunpowder, or explosives are not permitted to be utilized to propel an arrow.
Muzzleloader, crossbow, or bow only: During normal muzzleloader hunts, hunters may employ any legal muzzleloader with open or “iron” sights, any legal bow, or any lawful crossbow (see also limited muzzleloader). During a muzzleloader hunt, scopes, red dots, or other like sights are not permitted on muzzleloaders. Except for certain limited muzzleloader deer hunts, muzzleloaders may be used with sabots and in-line ignition. No medicines may be used on arrows or bolts, and explosives, gunpowder, or compressed air cannot be used to propel arrows or bolts. Guns that fire arrows or bolts, including airbows, are prohibited.
Restricted Muzzleloader for deer: It is only permissible to use a muzzle-loading rifle that fires full-bore diameter bullets or patched round balls while using open sights, black powder, or an equivalent propellant. It is not permitted to employ smokeless powder, scopes, or in-line ignition. When muzzleloader deer hunting is forbidden, bows and crossbows are permitted.
Legal sporting arms for turkey: Any shotgun, crossbow, and bow that fires shot. Broadheads having cutting edges, whether mechanical or fixed, must be used on arrows and bolts. Crossbow and bow sights might not be able to project light. Arrows and bolts may not be coated with pharmaceuticals, and they may not be propelled by explosives, gunpowder, or compressed air.
FAQs
What Is The Best Month To Hunt Elk In New Mexico?
In the bush, the hunting season is most productive and often starts in September. Typically, this is the bow season. On October 7, the Muzzleloader season, which comes between Archery and the Gun season, kicks off the first week of the rifle-related season.
When Does The Hunting Season Begin In New Mexico For 2023-2024?
Beginning in early September of 2023–2024, New Mexico will open its hunting season. The start date is determined by the species of the game. While the normal deer season opens later in September, the deer archery season starts in early September.
What Part Of New Mexico Is The Best For Hunting?
New Mexico’s elk draws a variety of sportsmen. Regional 50-52s are highly popular, so you can get one if you want to. It is located in North Central and provides good coverage, just like the Elks do after decades of careful maintenance.
Can Non-residents Participate In The New Mexico Hunting Season?
With a non-resident hunting deer license, yes, non-residents may hunt in New Mexico. Each type and type of game has a different license cost. There are non-resident licenses available for fishing, big game, upland game birds, and waterfowl. For a variety of game categories, junior game hunting license are offered to 12 to 15-year-olds. Additionally, non-residents need to hold an elk guide license as well as a New Mexico hunting license.
Is There Any Extra Cost When Purchasing A Fishing License In New Mexico?
In the state of New Mexico, an obligatory $4.00 Habitat Management access stamp and a $1.00 vendor charge are required to be paid when buying a fishing license.
Can I Use Electronic Devices Or Tools During The New Mexico Hunting Season?
No, during the New Mexico hunting season, electronic gear is prohibited. Devices for night vision, infrared imaging, and GPS hunting. These innovations provide hunters an unfair advantage and may cause the unwarranted death of game animals, degrading the hunting season. $500 penalties and the cancellation of hunting licenses are possible outcomes of this rule. In order to adhere to rules and ethical hunting practices, hunters in New Mexico should refrain from using technological instruments or gadgets during hunting season, with the exception of GPS for navigation and thermal imaging for research.