At a Glance
348Square Miles
29.1%Public Land
5,900 - 9,600Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Fishing at Eagle Nest Lake is often good
- Many roads are extraordinarily bad
- Carry a GPS with land ownership data
- Hike away from roads to get away from hunters
Unit 48 in New Mexico is frequently noted for its challenging terrain, which demands both physical preparedness and a strategic approach to hunting. Hunters often highlight the importance of scouting ahead of the season to pinpoint game movement patterns and optimal hunting spots given the area's rugged landscape. While draw odds can be stiff, those who secure a spot appreciate the unit's potential for rewarding hunts, especially if one is familiar with local game behaviors during different seasons. Overall, it seems that preparation, persistence, and a deep understanding of the unit's topography are key to success in this area.
Northwest of Wagon Mound, this smaller unit has good populations of deer and elk. Most of the eastern half of the unit is comprised of private lands while the western half has a decent distribution of public pieces.
This unit generally produces good representation bucks and bulls but occasionally some great trophies are taken. Hunters who stay flexible and mobile on the few pieces of public land can usually find success. Private lands offer the best opportunity for success.