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.
Where is the best elk hunting 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.
How much is an out of state elk tag in New Mexico?
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 |
How much are New Mexico landowner elk tags?
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.
What is a good size bull elk?
Most big mature bulls will have main beams close to 50 inches long. Some are longer and some a bit shorter, but 50 is a good estimate to start from. Big bulls will have an inside spread of very near to 40 inches and also right around 30 inches of mass per side.
What is a good elk bull to cow ratio?
These units have a 35/100 bull to cow ratio or higher, thus some bulls live to be older resulting in a higher density of trophy bulls. Most other units maintain a 25-35/100 ratio. She recommends 1, 22, 23, 3A and 3C as units with slightly higher success rates.
Where can I find elk in New Mexico?
Some portions of the state where elk are relatively abundant include: The San Juan Mountains near Chama, in Game Management Unit 4; the Jemez and Sierra Nacimiento of Unit 6; Mount Taylor in Unit 9; Gila National Forest in Unit 16; Carson National Forest in Units 52 and 53.
