New Mexico Elk and Mule Deer Hunts

If you are looking for a physical New Mexico elk or mule deer hunting experience on private ground with a chance at a true trophy animal, consider this outfitter.

Mule Deer Hunts

Based in Unit 7 of New Mexico, this hunt takes place over 10,000 acres of private land adjacent to the Jicarilla Apache Reservation. The terrain consists of rugged sandstone mesas, pinion and juniper forests, and carefully placed food plots to support the mule deer population.

This hunt, available for both rifle and archery, spans five days and focuses on harvesting mature bucks in the 170-190 inch range, with the potential for even larger deer. However, this is no easy hunt. Success requires rigorous hiking, early mornings, and patience. Each day begins before dawn, as you climb to high vantage points and spend hours glassing for deer in the early morning and late evening. During the middle of the day, you’ll be stalking ridges and navigating canyons in pursuit of elusive bucks that are masters of blending into the landscape.

Hunters can expect to encounter 2-3 target bucks throughout their hunt, though there’s always the possibility of seeing more. In rifle season, the average shooting distance is 250-350 yards, but sometimes closer opportunities present themselves, especially during the November hunt. Archery season, running from January 1st to 15th, offers a different experience. With the tail end of the rut and snow on the ground, more bucks tend to be visible. Shot distances during archery season depend largely on the hunter’s comfort level, with most shots taken between 30 and 60 yards. However, being able to shoot out to 70 or 80 yards could increase your chances of success.

There are only two tags for both the November rifle season and the January archery season, with the preference for hunters to participate in a 2×1 arrangement. With an average success rate of 50%, this hunt is perfect for those seeking a real challenge and the chance to take home a truly impressive mule deer buck. It’s not a hunt for everyone, but for those up for the adventure, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat.

Elk Hunts

These New Mexico elk hunts take place in Wildlife Management Units 2, 5B, 6A, 6C, and 7, located in northwest New Mexico, near the town of Cuba. Offering a mix of private and public land hunting, these hunts include private land vouchers as part of the package. The primary hunting method is spot-and-stalk, with plenty of hiking and glassing involved. During archery season, some still hunting around waterholes and food sources is also utilized.

The terrain features a rugged mix of sagebrush canyons and pinon/juniper-covered mesas, with elevations around 7,000 feet. The hunts provide a realistic opportunity to harvest a trophy bull elk, with expected sizes ranging from 280 to 320 in Units 5B, 6A, 6C, and 7, and between 260 and 300 in Unit 2. Units 5B, 6A, and 6C also hold the potential for even larger bulls. Keep in mind that hunts in Unit 6C are the most physically demanding, so excellent physical fitness is essential for success in this area.

These fully guided elk hunts are conducted on a 2×1 guide-to-hunter ratio, with the option to upgrade to a 1×1 experience for an additional fee. Lodging and meals are included in the hunt package, with accommodations ranging from ranch house-style camps to wall tent setups in certain areas. You can drive directly to the camp, or if flying in, you can arrive at Albuquerque, rent a vehicle, and make the 1.5-hour drive to the camp.

These hunts offer an exciting challenge and the chance to bring home a trophy elk from the beautiful landscapes of New Mexico.

Included:

  • Lodging
  • Meals
  • Hunt Field Transportation
  • Trophy Field Preparation & Trophy Care
  • Professional Guiding Service
  • Landowner Mule Tag

Not Included:

Lodging and Accommodations

Lodging and meals are included in the hunt package, with accommodations ranging from ranch house-style camps to wall tent setups in certain areas. You’ll be hunting via a combination of UTV’s, 4×4 Vehicles and Hiking.

Fly to the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

You can drive directly to the camp, or if flying in, you can arrive at Albuquerque, rent a vehicle, and make the 1.5-hour drive to the camp.

Booking Information

Please note that reservations are not considered finalized until agreed upon deposit is received. This ensures agreed upon dates and current pricing.

Quality outfitters are in high demand so let us know right away, as some trips do book years in advance.