In accordance with state law, the drawing attempts to distribute a minimum of 84% of the licenses/permits for each hunt to New Mexico residents, 10% to residents and nonresidents who have contracted with an outfitter and 6% to nonresidents who haven’t contracted with an outfitter.
What is the best elk unit in New Mexico?
South central New Mexico is home to some of the states best elk hunting with units 34 & 36 leading the way. The two units have been consistent producers of quality bulls (300+) with truly giant bulls (370+) being taken out of both units every year.
How many elk tags are issued in New Mexico?
Even though roughly 22,000 tags a year go into the draw, there simply aren’t enough to meet demand. At the same time, however, private landowners receive more than 13,000 tags through the program known as EPLUS – the Elk Private Land Use System.
How do I get a New Mexico elk tag?
Purchasing Licenses, Stamps and Validations
Accounts can be set up online: https://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us or by telephone at 1-888-248-6866.
How much is an out of state New Mexico elk tag?
Table of Draw Fees
| License Type | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Elk License (Residents 18–64 years of age and all nonresidents) | ||
| A (Antlerless) | $60 | Not Issued |
| MB (Mature Bull) | $90 | $548 |
| ES (Either Sex) | $90 | $548 |
Where are most elk in New Mexico?
Top Areas in New Mexico for Elk Hunting
- Gila National Forest. Located in the top trophy elk-producing county (Catron) from 2000 to 2009, the areas within the Gila National Forest consistently produce the best bulls in New Mexico.
- Valles Caldera National Preserve.
- Cibola National Forest.
- Valle Vidal.
Where are the biggest elk in NM?
American Elk-Typical
| B&C Score | Location | Hunter |
|---|---|---|
| 1. 402 2/8 | Catron County | picked up |
| 2. 398 3/8 | Rio Arriba County | Robert North |
| 3. 398 | Mora County | Bernabe Alcon |
| 4. 397 5/8 | Soccoro County | Richard E. Westwood |
Are elk overpopulated in New Mexico?
In northern New Mexico, Rocky Mountain elk from the Yellowstone region were introduced as early as 1910. Today the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish estimates the statewide elk population at 70,000 to 90,000.
How does New Mexico elk draw work?
After all deer and elk applications have been examined, a second drawing distributes any remaining deer and elk licenses to those who designate a fourth choice on their application. Only those willing to accept ANY deer or elk license should indicate a fourth choice.
Is New Mexico good for elk hunting?
New Mexico offers great elk hunting opportunities across the state. With multiple weapon choices, types of terrain, season dates, and a healthy population of elk, you will have plenty of options to choose from when applying for hunts that fit your preferred style of hunting.
How much is a landowner elk tag in New Mexico?
about $4,000 to around $7,500
In the units that we hunt, landowner tags for elk generally range from about $4,000 to around $7,500. The purchase of a landowner tag is also subject to New Mexico sales tax.
Does New Mexico have OTC elk tags?
California, Nevada and New Mexico do not offer any OTC Elk tags, so all elk tags in these states are limited entry only. Some of the OTC tags are not limited except in certain units, while other tags may be limited state-wide.
Where is the best elk hunting?
The Country’s Best Elk-Hunting Units
- Oregon. If you want to be different from the majority of traveling elk hunters, try Oregon.
- Wyoming. The Equality State has many incredible elk-hunting units, or areas, as the Wyoming Game and Fish Department refers to them.
- Washington.
- Montana.
- Arizona.
- Nevada.
- Utah.
- Idaho.
Do you have to draw a tag to hunt elk in New Mexico?
There are two ways to obtain an elk-hunting license in New Mexico. The first is to draw a license in the annual draw. If unsuccessful in the draw, there is then the option to purchase a landowner tag. We can begin submitting applications in the New Mexico license draw in mid-January.
Can you use a crossbow in New Mexico for elk?
Crossbow Regulations in New Mexico
It is lawful in New Mexico to use crossbows to harvest bear; cougar; elk; deer; javelin; pronghorn; Barbary sheep; oryx; Persian ibex; bighorn sheep; and turkey. Crossbows are legal for use in muzzleloader or any legal sporting arm seasons unless they have been otherwise restricted.
How much are elk hunts in New Mexico?
As of the time of this blog post, our 2020 prices are $5,749 for a 2-on-1 elk hunt and $7,749 for a 1-on-1 elk hunt. This includes the fully guided hunt, meals and accommodations.
How big are elk in New Mexico?
Elk are one of the largest members of the deer family. Large males, called bulls, can weigh several hundred pounds and stand five feet at the shoulder. Females are called cows and are roughly half that size.
Does New Mexico have moose?
Moose are not very common in New Mexico but in areas like the Four Corners they do tend to wander from Colorado, but it doesn’t mean that they are not protected if they are shot and or killed.
What is considered a mature bull elk in New Mexico?
“Mature bull” or “MB” shall mean a male elk with at least one brow tine extending six or more inches from the main beam or at least one forked antler with both branches six or more inches long.
What is the world record elk?
World record for Largest Tule Elk
Jeff had a ranch in Glenn County, California and the land was frequented by tule deer. He had the rack measured and landed the title from Boone & Crocket as the Tule Elk World Record with a score of 379.
What is a big elk score?
A typical elk, meaning the antlers are symmetrical, needs to score at least 260 inches. Non-typical bull elk have to hit 300 inches. A “green score” is taken not long after you’ve killed the animal and will tell you if you’re at, near, or over the minimum score.