Quick Tips
- Most game animals are within one mile of water
- Quality optics (such as a spotting scope) are essential in order to find bucks in the wide open terrain
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
This mostly private unit is south of Interstate 40 between Moriarty and Santa Rosa, and north of US Highway 60, between Willard and Fort Sumner. Antelope are plentiful and get big on some ranches. This is a very challenging mule deer unit with less than desirable terrain on public land and a significant amount of private land.
Some trophy class antelope are taken in this unit, but are not as common as in units to the southwest. Private ranches offer a better opportunity for antelope than do the public lands. Mule deer are not thriving, and success rates are low among hunters who draw tags.
Terrain
Some wide canyons and mesas are in the northern third of the unit and south of Santa Rosa. Northwest of Fort Sumner is Lake Sumner and its namesake state park. The rest of the unit is flat with a few hills and ridges extending above the plains. Visibility is very high due to consistent, open terrain and glassing will be key for initially locating animals.
Roughly 2,638 square miles
18.2% public land
Elevations range from 4,000 to 6,300 feet
Vegetation
Most of this area is covered with desert brush and grasses, with yucca and cholla cactus. Pinyon pines and junipers often grow on steep terrain, on large hills, and in draws and arroyos.
Access
The boundaries are all well-paved roads. US Highways 285 and 54 cut the unit in thirds, and each road gives access to a network of county maintained roads and private roads. Large sections of state lands are close to or touching the main highways and locating huntable areas will not be difficult for most hunters.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
ATVs can come in handy on rough roads
Camping and Lodging
Camping is allowed on BLM land and is a good option for most hunters. Many hunters stay in motels or private homes. Motels are available in some towns, including Moriarty, Vaughn, Fort Sumner and Santa Rosa.
Camping is allowed at Lake Sumner
RVs may be hooked up at Lake Sumner
No camping or parking within 300 yards of water sources
Motels in Santa Rosa, Fort Sumner, Moriarty and Vaughn
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