Quick Tips
- Carry maps with land ownership data
- Scout before the season to find water holes away from roads
- Try not to shoot the first six-point bull you see
- Aoudad hunters are wise to hire guides who know the area
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 300"-340" | 350"+ |
On The Ground
Wrapped around the south part of the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation and mainly consisting of federal land in the Lincoln National Forest, this is the state’s southernmost premium elk unit. Hunters can also take mule deer, black bear, and Barbary sheep here. Lots of game is in the Lincoln National Forest, including the White Mountain Wilderness.
Elk hunting is excellent here but deer and Barbary sheep are found in much lower densities but good opportunities can still be found on public land.
Terrain
From barren deserts and badlands to lush mountains, hunters tend to enjoy varied scenery. Lowlands range from sprawling flats to low hills. In some places are steep canyons and rimrock draws can be found. Above 6,500 feet are foothills and mountains, some of them steep and a few rugged. Water sources are abundant in the high country, but less common in low terrain.
1,686 square miles
67.8% public land
Elevations from about 4,300-9,600 feet
Vegetation
Most of low country is open desert terrain. Yuccas, low grasses and shrubs cover most of the ground. High oak brush, junipers, pinyon pines and some larger conifers are found on the north-facing sides of many low-elevation canyons and draws. Above 7,000 feet most land is well-forested with ponderosa pines, pinyon pines and junipers, with many parks and open ridges.
Access
Most roads to public land are open and hunters will have little issue in finding access options Hunters should carry good maps and GPS units to ensure that they don’t trespass on tribal or private land.
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp by the sides of roads, which is allowed on BLM land and in much of the Lincoln National Forest. Modern lodging option can be found in Alamogordo and Clooudcroft. Sam Tobias Memorial Campground near Ruidoso is set up for large groups, so fees can be expensive for small parties. Most Forest Service campgrounds, such as Oak Grove and Skyline are open during September archery deer and elk seasons, but are usually closed by the time most gun seasons begin. Some other convieneces such as groceries and fuel can also be found in Weed, Mayhill, and Piñon.
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