Northern New Mexico hunting land is full of all kinds of wildlife. For hunters, the opportunities to score a big kill are frequent. The vast expanses of open lands are home to everything from giant elk to big fat turkeys. This guide will point you toward some of the most popular hunting spots along the north side of the state so you can obtain the perfect permit.
The Lay of the Land
Before we get down to the nitty-gritty details, the first thing we need to cover is the unique attributes of Northern New Mexico hunting land. At the far Northwest side of the state, you will find that the land is mostly flat and dry. There is not much hunting activity in this area for most of the year, and you will note that the land units are significantly larger than other parts of the state. In the north-central region, the land gets mountainous with nice thick forests where the big game likes to hide. These hunting units are smaller and more competitive. Finally, on the eastern side of the state the land levels back out, but the area is grassy and home to smaller targets.
While it is important to understand where your target animals reside, it is also important to understand how private land comes into play. Within each of the zones, there are a number of private land lots which may or may not permit hunting activity. If you hope to participate in a hunt in one of these areas, you will need to plan far in advance to secure a permit and permission from the landowners. This can cost significantly more if you are looking for a prize hunt.
Best Hunting Land for Elk
The Elk of New Mexico bring hunters from all over the nation. If you want the best chance to bag one of your own, regions 50-52 are all very popular. They are located in the north-central region and offer plenty of coverage and strong Elk populations after years of careful management. Zone 51 is a bit peculiar in shape and orientation, but 50 and 52 are dense locations that any hunter can appreciate.
Best Hunting Land for Mule Deer
Mule deer are also a staple of New Mexico’s hunting culture. Fortunately, zone 2 in the Northwestern corner is home to thousands of the animals. Zone 2 is broken down into three parts, identified as A, B, and C. Here you will find ample opportunity to bring down one of these magnificent deer in no time.
Best Hunting Land for Turkey
If you’re looking for wild fowl, the northern part of the state also happens to be prime hunting ground. If you head straight north from Santa Fe, you’ll land in the Carson National Forest. This whole area is home to plenty of the birds, and you can snag one or two for yourself if you are able to find a feeding ground.
Best Hunting Land for Black Bears
The permit process for bears is different from other animals because the Wildlife and Game Department is strictly looking at the annual quota. However, as long as you call ahead you should be able to enjoy the hunt. Up in the northeastern corner between Taos and Raton there is a lot of private land that is well known for producing hulking bears. This is a mountainous region that can be quite challenging to traverse, but the results will be well worth the effort.
There is plenty of incredible New Mexico hunting land to be explored if you are planning your next big hunt. The biggest thing to remember is that some of the very best New Mexico hunting land belongs to private owners. For assistance with planning a hunt in the area, contact Reservations Unlimited today and we can answer all your questions.
