New Mexico offers a unique and straightforward application process that stands out from other states. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about applying for tags in New Mexico, including deadlines, draw odds, tag allocation, and strategies to maximize your chances of success.
Don’t want to read this entire article? Watch our video on New Mexico’s application process on the Fresh Tracks’ YouTube Channel. Check it out below!
Why Go Hunting in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s hunting application system is simple and easy to understand, making it an attractive option for hunters. Unlike many states that use a complicated point system, New Mexico operates on a lottery-based draw system. Here’s how it works:
- Purchase a Non-Refundable License: Start by buying a non-refundable license online.
- Select Your Species and Choices: Choose the species you want to hunt and list your top three unit choices.
- Pay and Wait: Submit your application and wait for the draw results.
The deadline for applications is March 15th at 5:00 PM Mountain Time. Results are typically released in Late April, giving hunters ample time to plan for other states’ draws, which often occur later in the year.
Understanding New Mexico’s Tag Allocation
New Mexico’s tag distribution is unique and favors residents, which is important to understand before applying:
- 84% of Tags Go to Residents: This is slightly lower than some states, which allocate 90% to residents.
- 10% to Guided Hunts: These tags can go to either residents or non-residents who choose to use a guided hunt service.
- 6% to Self-Guided Non-Residents: This small percentage makes it highly competitive for non-residents that want a DIY hunting experience.
Additionally, all cow elk tags are reserved for residents, so non-residents should focus on their application on bull elk or other species.
Costs and Budgeting for Hunting in New Mexico
Applying in New Mexico requires upfront payment for the highest-cost species you select. Here’s a breakdown of costs:
- Non-Refundable License: $65
- Application Fee: $13
- Species Costs:
- Elk: $773
- Deer (Mule deer and Coues deer): $368
- Pronghorn: $283
- Bighorn Sheep: $3,173
- Exotic Species
- Oryx – $1,623
- Ibex – $1,623
- Audad – $373
While the upfront costs can be significant, the total sunk cost for applying in New Mexico is typically under $100, making it an affordable application option compared to other states.
Draw Odds and Strategies
New Mexico’s lack of a point system means draw odds aren’t readily available like in other Western states. However, GOHUNT uses a predictive model, the Monte Carlo simulation, which runs the previous year’s draw odds to predict a possible outcome for the current draw cycle. GOHUNT is an invaluable tool for the Fresh Tracks crew. If you’re interested in signing up for GOHUNT Insider, be sure to use promo code, RANDY. In addition to draw odds, strategy articles, access to their maps and more, you’ll also receive $50 store credit to the GOHUNT gear shop, a year subscription to Fresh Tracks+ and our latest edition of the Elk Hunting E-Guide. Click here to signup.
Here’s our strategize to maximize your application:
- Order Your Choices Wisely:
- First Choice: Lowest probability (hardest to draw).
- Second Choice: Moderate probability.
- Third Choice: Highest probability (easiest to draw).
- This approach ensures you don’t waste a low draw number on an easy-to-draw tag.
- Focus on Realistic Options: For non-residents, prioritize hunts with higher tag allocations or less demand. Consider archery or muzzleloader seasons, which often have better odds.
New Mexico’s Unique Rounding System
New Mexico’s rounding system for tag allocation can be tricky for non-residents. Here’s how it works:
- Tags are rounded up only if the calculated allocation is 0.75 or higher.
- For example, if a hunt code has 10 tags, non-residents would get 0.6 tags (10 x 0.06). Since 0.6 is below 0.75, it rounds down to zero.
- To guarantee at least one tag for non-residents, a hunt code must have at least 13 tags (13 x 0.06 = 0.78, which rounds up to 1).
This system significantly impacts non-resident opportunities, especially for species like pronghorn, where tag numbers are low.
Youth and Mobility-Impaired Hunts
New Mexico offers some of the best youth and mobility-impaired hunts in the country:
- Youth Hunts: No age restrictions, but participants must have passed a hunter education course. Youth season dates and units are highly favorable so if you have a youth in your household, consider New Mexico as a option.
- Mobility-Impaired Hunts: These hunts provide excellent opportunities with prime season dates and units tailored for accessibility.
Season Structure for Hunting in New Mexico
New Mexico’s hunting seasons are designed to maximize opportunity while maintaining healthy wildlife populations. Key features include:
- Multiple Short Seasons: Units often have 4–6 short seasons for different weapon types (archery, muzzleloader, rifle).
- Archery Seasons: Typically longer, with some running from September 1st to the 24th.
- Rifle and Muzzleloader Seasons: Often shorter seasons, lasting 5–7 days.
This structure reduces pressure on wildlife and allows more hunters to participate. However, it also means you need to be well-prepared:
- Pre-Scouting: Use online tools and scouting videos to plan your hunt.
- Boots on the Ground: Arrive a few days early to scout your unit.
- Focus on Efficiency: With short seasons, every day counts.
Land Access for Hunting in New Mexico
New Mexico boasts 22 million acres of public land, including BLM and Forest Service areas. Additionally, there are millions of acres of State Trust Land, which is accessible to hunters with a valid license. A few key points to be aware of:
- State Trust Land: No camping or recreational shooting is allowed, but you can scout 14 days before your season opens.
- Travel Management Rules: Be aware of local regulations regarding vehicle access.
Always check the regulations before heading out on your hunt.
Final Tips for Applying in New Mexico
- Don’t Miss the Deadline: March 15th at 5:00 PM MDT is the cutoff for applications—no exceptions.
- Use Your Three Choices Strategically: Prioritize harder-to-draw hunts first.
- Budget Wisely: Be prepared to front the cost of your most expensive choice.
- Consider Alternative Hunts: Look for archery or muzzleloader hunts as backup options.
Conclusion
New Mexico offers a unique application process, but success requires careful planning and strategy. By understanding the state’s tag allocation, rounding system, and season structure, you can maximize your chances of drawing a tag. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, New Mexico’s diverse hunting opportunities make it a top destination for hunters nationwide.
Good luck in the draw, and don’t forget to use promo code RANDY when signing up for GOHUNT Insider and receive $50 in store credit to the Gear Shop, a year’s worth membership to Fresh Tracks+, and a free copy of our 100-page Elk Hunting E-guide!
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