New Mexico’s sweeping deserts, rugged mountains, and piñon-juniper woodlands make it one of the most captivating hunting destinations in the United States. This southwestern state is a haven for hunters seeking everything from massive elk in the high country to exotic oryx on the desert floor. With a unique blend of native and introduced game species, challenging terrain, and a well-regulated tag system, New Mexico offers a world-class hunting experience.  

Here’s everything you need to know about hunting in the Land of Enchantment.  

Game Species in New Mexico  

New Mexico is home to a diverse array of game species, both native and exotic. Whether you’re after big game, upland birds, or predators, this state has something for everyone.

Elk

New Mexico is a top destination for elk hunters. The state’s well-managed herds and expansive habitat produce trophy bulls every year. The Gila National Forest is particularly famous for its elk hunting opportunities, boasting some of the largest bulls in the nation. Elk tags in New Mexico are available through a limited draw, but some landowner permits can also be purchased. The archery hunts during the September rut are especially popular for their thrilling bugling action. 

Mule Deer and Coues Deer  

The state’s desert and mountain terrain offer excellent opportunities for mule deer hunting, especially in the western and southeastern regions. Coues deer, the smaller and elusive cousin of the white-tailed deer, inhabit the southern parts of New Mexico. Pursuing this challenging species requires patience and skill, making it a rewarding experience for seasoned hunters.

Pronghorn Antelope  

New Mexico is one of the best places in the U.S. to hunt pronghorn, with large herds roaming the open plains. The state produces impressive trophies, and with careful planning, hunters can secure a tag through the annual draw or landowner permits.  

Barbary Sheep, Oryx and Ibex  

New Mexico’s exotic game species set it apart from other states. Oryx, introduced from Africa in the 1960s, thrive on the White Sands Missile Range and surrounding areas. While most oryx hunts are managed through the draw system, some permits are available year-round for private land hunts. The Persian ibex, found in the Florida Mountains, offers an incredible spot-and-stalk challenge in rocky terrain, and so does the aoudad, or barbary sheep. Originally introduced from North Africa, the Barbary sheep have flourished in New Mexico’s rugged desert canyons and mountains.

Wild Turkey  

With excellent turkey populations and varied habitats, New Mexico provides a premier destination for both novice and seasoned turkey hunters. The state is home to three subspecies of wild turkey: Merriam’s, Rio Grande, and the rare Gould’s turkey. Spring turkey hunts are particularly popular, with hunters pursuing gobblers during their active mating season. Merriam’s turkeys are found in forested mountain regions, while Rio Grande turkeys inhabit riparian areas and agricultural lands.

Gould’s turkeys are found in small pockets in the southern part of the state. This is one of the most challenging turkey trophies; New Mexico is one of the two American states, along with Arizona, that has a population of this subspecies, the biggest of all turkeys. Gould’s turkey hunting is limited-draw only, and the permit is highly coveted.

Quail  

Quail hunting in New Mexico offers an exciting upland bird experience, with several species available to pursue. Gambel’s quail are the most common, thriving in the desert regions with their characteristic curved head plumes. Scaled quail, also known as “blue quail,” prefer the open grasslands and provide a unique challenge due to their speed and tendency to run instead of fly. Hunters can also find Montezuma quail, a striking and elusive species found in mountainous terrain. Quail hunting season typically runs through the fall and winter months, and the diversity of habitats ensures an adventurous hunt for upland bird enthusiasts.  

Predators and Small Game  

The state has healthy populations of black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and coyotes, providing excellent predator hunting opportunities. For small game hunters, New Mexico offers pheasants, doves, and waterfowl in addition to quail. Gambel’s quail, in particular, remain a favorite among upland bird enthusiasts.  

Best Hunting Areas in New Mexico  

New Mexico’s diverse landscapes make it a prime hunting destination, with habitats ranging from dense forests and high-altitude mountains to sprawling deserts and rolling grasslands. Each region offers unique challenges and rewards for hunters pursuing specific game species. 

Gila National Forest  

The Gila National Forest is one of the crown jewels of hunting in New Mexico, known for its trophy elk, mule deer, and black bears. This expansive wilderness in southwestern New Mexico covers over 3.3 million acres, offering a true backcountry experience. The forest is home to some of the state’s best elk hunting units, particularly Units 15, 16A, 16C, and 16D. These areas are known for producing record-book bulls, thanks to careful management and limited hunting pressure. Access is rugged, with many hunters relying on horses or ATVs to reach prime locations.  

Florida Mountains  

The Florida Mountains near Deming are famous for their population of Persian ibex. This rugged and rocky terrain challenges even the most seasoned hunters, making ibex hunts one of the most rewarding and physically demanding experiences in North America. The limited-draw tags for this area are highly coveted, but if you secure one, you’ll have the opportunity to test your skills in a breathtaking environment.  

White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)  

One of the most unique hunting areas in New Mexico, White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) is home to thriving populations of oryx. These majestic African antelope were introduced to the area in the 1960s and have since adapted remarkably well to the desert environment.  

Hunting on WSMR comes with additional entry requirements. All hunters must pass a background check, and non-citizens or non-residents must complete additional documentation and clearance procedures. This process can take several weeks, so planning ahead is essential. Weapons must also be registered before entering the range. 

Southeastern Desert Canyons  

The desert canyons in southeastern New Mexico provide excellent opportunities for Barbary sheep hunting. Units such as 29, 30, and 32 are popular for both public and private land hunts. These areas are known for their rugged beauty and challenging terrain, making them a favorite among hunters who enjoy spot-and-stalk pursuits.  

Carson and Santa Fe National Forests  

Located in northern New Mexico, these forests offer a mix of hunting opportunities for elk, mule deer, and black bears. The Carson National Forest, in particular, is known for its diverse habitats, ranging from alpine meadows to dense aspen groves. Both forests provide opportunities for hunters seeking less crowded conditions compared to the Gila.  

Rio Grande Valley  

Stretching across central New Mexico, the Rio Grande Valley is a prime location for waterfowl and small game hunting. This region is part of the Pacific Flyway, attracting migrating ducks and geese during the fall and winter months. The river’s surrounding agricultural lands also support populations of doves and quail, making it a versatile hunting destination.  

Valles Caldera National Preserve  

This 89,000-acre preserve in northern New Mexico offers limited opportunities for elk and turkey hunting. Managed under a special permit system, Valles Caldera provides a controlled environment for hunters seeking high-quality experiences in a stunning volcanic landscape. 

Best Times to Hunt in New Mexico  

The timing of your hunt in New Mexico can significantly impact your experience and success. Here’s a detailed look at the best times to hunt in the Land of Enchantment.  

Elk Hunting  

– Archery Season (September):  

  The elk rut typically peaks in mid-to-late September, making this the most thrilling time to hunt. Bull elk are highly vocal during the rut, responding to bugle and cow calls. Archery hunts during this time offer close encounters with bugling bulls, often in picturesque settings like the Gila National Forest or the remote units in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  

– Rifle and Muzzleloader Seasons (October-November):  

  These seasons provide excellent opportunities to harvest elk as they transition out of the rut and begin moving toward wintering areas. Early rifle hunts may still catch post-rut bulls, while later hunts often focus on locating herds in lower elevations or feeding areas.  

– Late-Season Hunts (December-January):  

  Cow elk hunts and some late-season bull hunts are available during this period. These hunts can be productive for filling the freezer, as elk are more predictable in their winter patterns. 

Deer Hunting  

– Archery Season (January):  

  New Mexico offers a unique opportunity for mule deer hunting during the late-season archery hunts in January. This coincides with the post-rut when bucks are still recovering from the breeding season but remain active in search of food.  

– Rifle Season (October-November):  

  Mule deer rifle hunts occur during the fall when bucks are transitioning into the rut. In areas with abundant food sources and lower hunting pressure, this can be an excellent time to harvest a mature buck.  

– Coues Deer (Late November-December):  

  These elusive deer are most active during their rut, which starts later and continues longer than with most other deer species, and often peaks in January. 

 Pronghorn Antelope  

– Archery Season (August):  

  Archery hunts for pronghorn often take place near waterholes or feeding areas. This is one of the most challenging yet rewarding methods of hunting pronghorn, requiring patience and precise shooting.  

– Rifle Season (September):  

  The peak of the pronghorn rut occurs during September, making this an ideal time for rifle hunters. Bucks are more active and less wary during the rut, offering hunters a better chance to spot and stalk or take advantage of calling techniques.  

Black Bear and Cougar

Black bear spring season runs in April-May, when the bruins emerge from hibernation and are focused on finding food. This is an excellent time for spot-and-stalk hunting, particularly in areas with abundant vegetation. The fall bear season aligns with their pre-hibernation feeding frenzy, making this a productive time for hunting. Bears are most active near food sources like berry patches and oak groves.

Mountain lions are hunted year-round in New Mexico, but the best time is during the winter months (December-February) when fresh snow makes tracking easier. Many outfitters offer “on-call” hunts, that is, hunts booked with open dates. After the snowfall, the outfitter calls the hunter, and they arrive to pursue the mountain lion under the perfect conditions.

Non-Resident Hunting Licenses and Tags in New Mexico   

The majority of big game tags in New Mexico are issued through a limited draw system, with specific quotas for residents, non-residents, and outfitter clients. Non-residents face stiffer competition for tags, as only 16% of all available tags are allocated to non-residents:  

– 6% of tags are reserved for non-residents who apply without a licensed outfitter.  

– 10% of tags are reserved for non-residents who apply with a licensed outfitter (Outfitter Pool).  

This means that non-residents applying through the Outfitter Pool have a better chance of drawing a tag than those applying independently.  

Application Process and Deadlines  

The application process for New Mexico’s limited draw hunts begins in January, with the application deadline typically falling in mid-March. The process requires hunters to:  

1. Purchase the required hunting license and stamps.  

2. Apply for the specific big game species and unit.  

3. Pay upfront for the license and tag fees (refundable if unsuccessful in the draw).  

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options for Non-Residents  

While most big game species in New Mexico are managed through the draw system, some OTC options are available, including:  

– Cougar Tags: Available year-round with no quota limitations in most units. 

– Bear Tags: Offered in certain units, especially for spring and fall seasons. Quotas apply, so hunters must check availability. 

Landowner Permits  

For non-residents who don’t want to rely on the draw system, landowner permits provide a valuable alternative. These permits allow landowners to distribute big game tags for use on their property or designated public land units. Non-residents can purchase these permits directly from landowners or outfitters.  Landowner permits are particularly popular for elk and pronghorn hunts.

Important Regulations for Non-Residents  

– Hunter Education: Non-residents born after January 1, 1972, must provide proof of completing a certified hunter education course.  

– Weapon Restrictions: Ensure your firearm or bow complies with New Mexico’s minimum caliber and draw weight requirements.  

– Tagging and Reporting: Hunters must tag their harvest immediately and submit a harvest report, even if no animal is taken. Failure to report may result in disqualification from future draws.  

Non-resident youth hunters (under 18 years old) enjoy reduced tag fees, making New Mexico an excellent destination for family hunting trips. Mobility-impaired hunters can also apply for special licenses that provide accommodations such as the use of motorized vehicles in specific areas. 

Traveling to New Mexico 

Hunter from Texas, Colorado, or Arizona can easily access New Mexico by car, those living in urban areas like New York City, Chicago, or Los Angeles usually prefer flying. The primary entry points are Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and El Paso International Airport (ELP). Albuquerque is centrally located and provides easy access to popular hunting areas in northern and central New Mexico, including the Gila National Forest and the Rio Grande Valley. El Paso is a convenient gateway for hunts in the southern regions. 

Hunters traveling from Europe, Canada, or South America can find convenient connections through major U.S. hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), or Denver (DEN), Don’t forget to allow extra time for the red tape associated with processing firearms documentations and (for international travellers) customs forms. Many outfitters also offer firearm rentals to simplify logistics.

From the airport, the way to get around New Mexico is on a rented vehicle. The state has a well-maintained highway system, however, it is strongly recommended that you rent a 4×4 SUV or truck, as most hunting areas in New Mexico require vehicles capable of handling rugged terrain.

Non-Hunting Activities in New Mexico

New Mexico offers plenty of activities for both non-hunting companions and for the hunting themselves, from exploring the state’s natural beauty to immersion in the rich Native American and Spanish heritage. There’s fishing, too. Here are some of the things you can do: 

• Enjoy natural wonders. Walk among the stunning gypsum dunes in the White Sands National Park, or descend into an awe-inspiring underground world of limestone caves of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Or take a thrilling ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway to the top of the Sandia Mountains for panoramic views of Albuquerque and the surrounding desert.  
• Discover Pueblo. Visit the Taos Pueblo UNESCO World Heritage Site or the ancient Puebloan ruins in Chaco Culture National Historical Park, explore ancient cliff dwellings and beautiful hiking trails in the Bandelier National Monument, and gain insights into the Native American history and culture.
• Experience cities: check out the vibrant art scene, adobe architecture, and unique shopping opportunities at Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza, scroll through historic streets of  Albuquerque’s Old Town, or marvel at the works of the iconic artist in the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
• For body and soul: Relax in the therapeutic natural hot springs of Ojo Caliente or the springs near Truth or Consequences. Winter visitors can hit the ski slopes in one of the Southwest’s premier ski destinations, Taos Ski Valley. And don’t forget to indulge in local specialties such as green chile cheeseburgers, enchiladas, and biscochitos, the official state cookie.
• Catch some fish: Cast your line for trophy trout in one of the nation’s best fly-fishing destinations, San Juan River. 

Plan Your New Mexico Hunting Adventure  

With its incredible landscapes, diverse game species, and rich cultural heritage, New Mexico is a bucket-list destination for hunters. Whether you’re after a record-breaking elk, a challenging ibex hunt, or a high-volume quail shoot, the Land of Enchantment offers something for everyone.  

Ready to experience the thrill of hunting in New Mexico?

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Hunting in Fennoscandia: What you need to know

So, what is Fennoscandia? To put it simple, that is the countries located on the Scandinavian Peninsula – Sweden and Norway – plus Finland. Sometimes, when the area is defined in political and cultural terms, Denmark is also included. There are also the Åland Islands, an archipelago in the Baltic Sea that de-jure belongs to Finland, but is an independent state in all but the name.

Geographically, Fennoscandia differs from the adjacent areas of Europe in that it lies on a solid basalt foundation, with very little limestone. That means a lot of conifer woods, lakes and fjords, and in general an inimitable environment that offers unique hunting opportunities. CONTINUE READING